Mather Campground - Image 1
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Mather Campground

4.6
·712 reviews·Grand Canyon Village, United States

Your gateway to the Grand Canyon South Rim! Mather Campground offers prime access to breathtaking views, trails, and park amenities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Crisp air, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Mather Campground - Image 1

Mather Campground

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Crisp air, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Your gateway to the Grand Canyon South Rim! Mather Campground offers prime access to breathtaking views, trails, and park amenities.

4.6
(712 reviews)

"Unbeatable location for Grand Canyon access, with helpful staff and great shuttle service!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Your Spot Early

Reservations are crucial, especially for peak season. Plan months ahead to secure your Mather Campground site. :ticket:

🧥 Pack for Cold Nights

Even in summer, nights get cold. Bring warm layers and sleeping bags for comfort. :zzz:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Proximity to South Rim

Proximity to South Rim

Walking distance to Grand Canyon South Rim viewpoints

Step out of your tent and into breathtaking Grand Canyon views. Easy access to trails and visitor centers makes this campground unbeatable.

Free Shuttle Bus Access

Free Shuttle Bus Access

Near campground office

Hop on the convenient, free shuttle to explore the South Rim's viewpoints and attractions without moving your vehicle.

Wildlife Sightings

Wildlife Sightings

Throughout the campground

Keep an eye out for elk and other wildlife wandering through the campground – a truly wild experience!

Stargazing Opportunities

Stargazing Opportunities

Campground clearings

Experience incredible night skies away from city lights. The Grand Canyon is a designated International Dark Sky Park.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Grand Canyon Access

Mather Campground is the premier lodging inside Grand Canyon National Park's South Rim. Reservations are essential, especially during peak season, as spots fill months in advance. Plan your visit early to secure a prime location near trails and amenities. Reddit

Prepare for Variable Weather

Even in warmer months, Grand Canyon nights can be chilly. Pack layers and warm sleeping gear, particularly for spring and fall. Be aware of potential fire restrictions and water shortages, checking the park's website before your trip. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Cooler temps, starry skies
Crowd
High
When
Winter weekdays
Why
Quiet, potential for snow
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

South Rim Camping Advice This Week?

🎯 Book Your Spot Early

Reservations are crucial, especially for peak season. Plan months ahead to secure your Mather Campground site. Reddit :ticket:

🧥 Pack for Cold Nights

Even in summer, nights get cold. Bring warm layers and sleeping bags for comfort. Reddit :zzz:

reddit.com

Camping in mather

reddit.com

Seeking advice! Tent camping at Mather campground at GCNP in mid March??

🚌 Utilize the Free Shuttle

The shuttle is your best friend for exploring the South Rim easily and efficiently. Reddit :bus:

🍎 Secure Your Food

Crows and wildlife love unattended food. Store all edibles properly to avoid a mess. Reddit :apple:

reddit.com

What site/loop to choose at Mathers campground, can we park our car next to the tent?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Your Spot Early

Reservations are crucial, especially for peak season. Plan months ahead to secure your Mather Campground site. Reddit :ticket:

🧥 Pack for Cold Nights

Even in summer, nights get cold. Bring warm layers and sleeping bags for comfort. Reddit :zzz:

🚌 Utilize the Free Shuttle

The shuttle is your best friend for exploring the South Rim easily and efficiently. Reddit :bus:

🍎 Secure Your Food

Crows and wildlife love unattended food. Store all edibles properly to avoid a mess. Reddit :apple:

💰 Quarters for Showers

Showers are coin-operated. Bring plenty of quarters for a hot rinse after a day of exploring. Reddit :moneybag:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(712 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mather Campground is lauded for its unbeatable location, offering direct access to the Grand Canyon's South Rim and convenient shuttle service. Campers appreciate the clean facilities, helpful staff, and the chance to see wildlife. However, some visitors note that shower facilities could be better maintained and that shade can be limited at certain sites.

"Great location within walking distance to South Rim and visitor center. There are some paved biking/walking greenway paths to the grocery store, post office, and rim.

Camping staff was very nice and helpful. They occasionally drive around in a golf/utility cart if anything is needed. We even saw them help some neighbors camping get a new battery for their car.

Plenty of spaces available, even 10 spots for first come, first served.

Bathrooms were clean and there was a sink for washing dishes."

Deidra T.

"Mather campground is nicely laid out. Campsites are not crowded, there are trees and your usual fire ring and picnic table. Our site 015 Aspen loop was nice but the picnic table was never in the shade. The bathrooms at Aspen Loop were not very clean. The laundry service at the end of the road was very convenient, the small store had ice, drinks and a few other items so you didn’t have to go to the market further away. The showers are coin showers 2.50 for 5 minutes. They need refreshed and better cleaning. All in all I recommend, just better bathroom cleaning and more frequent would make it a more pleasant experience. But just a short walk or drive and you can’t beat the view!"

NotQuite WonderWoman

"Although it was only 1 night, we had a wonderful time at Mather. Site 80 was a large site with plenty of space and privacy, surrounded by beautiful pines. Had a picnic table and campfire ring with attached BBQ. And the best part was being so close to all the major points of the Grand Canyon! The host was kind enough to let me know it was the week of the "star party" which turned out to be our favorite part of the visit!!"

Brianna W

What People Like

Prime South Rim location
Convenient shuttle access
Wildlife sightings

What People Dislike

Shower maintenance
Limited shade
Crowded during peak

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Flagstaff, take US-180 E towards Grand Canyon National Park. Mather Campground is located within the park, near the South Rim Village. Follow signs for the campground upon entering the park. The drive is approximately 1.5 hours. Reddit

Yes, the Grand Canyon Railway offers transportation from Williams, AZ, and the park's free shuttle bus system connects Mather Campground to various points within the South Rim, including the visitor center and viewpoints. Reddit

Absolutely! Mather Campground accommodates RVs, with many sites offering hookups. Check the reservation system for specific site details and length restrictions. Reddit

From Flagstaff, take US-180 E. Turn right onto AZ-64 W towards Grand Canyon National Park. Enter the park and follow signs for Mather Campground. It's located centrally within the South Rim Village area. Reddit

Yes, Mather Campground is easily accessible by car. It's located directly within Grand Canyon National Park on the South Rim, making it a convenient base for exploring. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Reservations are highly recommended and often required, especially during peak season. Mather Campground is very popular and fills up months in advance. Book online through the official park concessioner website. Reddit

Mather Campground is open year-round. Check-in times are typically in the afternoon, and check-out is in the morning. Specific hours can be found on the reservation website. Reddit

Campsite fees vary depending on the type of site and season, but generally range from $18 to $30 per night. Additional fees may apply for RV hookups. Reddit

Yes, Mather Campground has a limited number of first-come, first-served sites available, but these are highly sought after and fill up very early, especially during busy periods. It's best to reserve in advance. Reddit

Cancellation policies can vary, but generally, you can cancel up to a certain number of days before your arrival date for a refund, minus a cancellation fee. Check the specific terms when booking. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Amenities include clean restrooms, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, a dump station, coin-operated showers, and laundry facilities. Some sites offer RV hookups. Reddit

Yes, there are coin-operated showers available for a fee (typically $2.50 for 5 minutes). Bring quarters! Reddit

Cell service can be spotty within the campground and park. Wi-Fi is generally not available at the campsites, though some services might be accessible near the visitor center or lodges. Reddit

Campfires are usually permitted in designated fire rings, but fire restrictions can be in place due to dry conditions or high fire danger. Always check current park regulations. Propane grills are often allowed when campfires are restricted. Reddit

Sites in the Aspen loop are often praised for their proximity to amenities, though some report picnic tables not being in shade. Site 80 is noted as a large, private site. It's best to check a campground map and reviews for specific loop preferences. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are dining options within Grand Canyon Village, a short walk or shuttle ride away, including cafeterias and restaurants. There's also a small store at the campground for basic supplies. Reddit

A general store is located at the campground for ice, drinks, and a few essentials. A larger grocery store is also available in Grand Canyon Village, a short shuttle ride away. Reddit

It's crucial to store all food and scented items securely in your vehicle or a bear-resistant container. Crows and other wildlife are known to raid unattended food. Reddit

Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill. You'll need to bring your own cooking gear and fuel. Propane grills are often permitted even when campfires are banned. Reddit

Inside the park, you'll find various dining options from casual cafeterias to sit-down restaurants, primarily located in Grand Canyon Village. These offer a range of cuisines to suit different tastes. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Mather Campground's prime location offers easy access to the South Rim viewpoints, which are spectacular for sunrise, sunset, and general landscape photography. The campground itself offers opportunities for wildlife and nature shots. Reddit

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for Grand Canyon photography. The 'golden hours' cast beautiful colors and shadows across the canyon walls. Reddit

While not directly at the campground, photography tours and workshops are often available in and around Grand Canyon National Park, focusing on capturing the best light and perspectives. Check with the park's visitor center for information. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the vastness of the canyon. A telephoto lens is useful for isolating details. A sturdy tripod is highly recommended for low-light conditions and long exposures. Reddit

Yes, you might have opportunities to photograph elk and other animals that frequent the campground. Remember to maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens to avoid disturbing them. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mather Campground is a fantastic base for families exploring the Grand Canyon. Its proximity to the South Rim means less travel time with little ones, and the free shuttle bus makes getting around the park a breeze. Kids will love spotting wildlife like elk wandering through the campground and the vastness of the canyon itself. Pack plenty of layers as temperatures can fluctuate, and ensure all food is securely stored to avoid attracting animals. Consider booking a site with a bit more space for children to play. Reddit

Activities for families include easy walks along the paved Rim Trail, which is stroller-friendly in many sections. The visitor center offers educational exhibits that can engage younger minds. Ranger programs are often geared towards families and can be a fun way to learn about the park's natural and cultural history. Remember to emphasize safety around the canyon rim and supervise children closely at all times. Reddit

🚗 RV Campers

Mather Campground is well-equipped to handle RVs, with many sites offering full hookups (water, sewer, and electric). The campground has a convenient dump station for emptying tanks. The paved roads and designated sites make parking and setting up your RV straightforward. Being inside the park means you can easily access the South Rim and its attractions without needing to tow your vehicle separately, or you can use the shuttle system. Reddit

Tips for RVers include booking your site well in advance, especially if you require hookups, as these are in high demand. Be mindful of site dimensions when booking to ensure your RV will fit comfortably. While the campground store has some essentials, plan to stock up on groceries before arriving in the park if you plan to do extensive cooking. Remember to secure all food properly, as RV sites can also attract wildlife. Reddit

🚶 Hikers & Backpackers

For hikers, Mather Campground is an ideal staging point for exploring the Grand Canyon's vast trail network. Its location provides easy access to the Rim Trail, offering stunning views without strenuous elevation changes. For those looking to venture below the rim, the Bright Angel Trailhead and South Kaibab Trailhead are accessible via the park shuttle, allowing for day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips (permits required for overnight stays below the rim). Reddit

Backpackers should note that Mather Campground is a convenient place to stay before or after a backcountry trip. Ensure you have secured all necessary permits for any overnight stays below the rim well in advance. The campground offers a comfortable place to rest and resupply before or after challenging hikes. Remember to pack appropriate gear for varying conditions, as temperatures can change dramatically with elevation. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Mather Campground

Mather Campground is a large, well-organized facility situated right on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. It's divided into several loops, each offering a slightly different experience. Aspen Loop is popular for its proximity to amenities like restrooms and the campground store, though some sites may lack shade. Other loops offer more seclusion and are nestled among ponderosa pines. The campground is designed with paved roads and designated campsites, each typically equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. The free park shuttle system is a major convenience, with stops located conveniently throughout the campground, making it easy to access the Grand Canyon Village, visitor centers, and various trailheads without needing to drive your own vehicle. Reddit

Key amenities include clean restrooms with flush toilets, potable water spigots, a dump station for RVs, and coin-operated showers and laundry facilities. A small campground store offers basic necessities like ice, drinks, and snacks, but for more substantial grocery needs, the larger general store in Grand Canyon Village is a short shuttle ride away. Wildlife, particularly elk, are frequent visitors to the campground, adding a unique element to the camping experience. However, it's crucial to properly store all food and scented items to prevent attracting unwanted attention from these animals or the opportunistic crows. Reddit

Planning your stay at Mather Campground requires foresight. Reservations are highly recommended, as the campground is one of the most sought-after lodging options within the park and often books up months in advance. While there are a few first-come, first-served sites, they are extremely competitive. Always check the official Grand Canyon National Park concessioner website for the most up-to-date information on reservations, fees, and any potential alerts regarding fire restrictions or water shortages. Reddit

Grand Canyon South Rim Access from Mather

The primary draw of Mather Campground is its unparalleled access to the Grand Canyon South Rim. Many campsites are within easy walking distance of the rim, allowing for spontaneous visits to witness sunrise or sunset over the vast canyon. The Greenway Trail system also connects the campground to the South Rim Village, the visitor center, and even the market, providing a pleasant, car-free way to explore the immediate surroundings. This proximity means you can easily embark on hikes along the Rim Trail or descend into the canyon via popular trails like the Bright Angel Trail or South Kaibab Trail, all starting just a short distance from your campsite. Reddit

The free park shuttle bus is an indispensable tool for maximizing your South Rim experience from Mather Campground. The shuttle operates on several routes, efficiently connecting all major viewpoints, trailheads, and facilities along the South Rim. This service eliminates the hassle of parking, which can be extremely limited at popular overlooks, and allows you to hop on and off at your leisure. Popular routes include the Village Route, Kaibab Rim Route, and Hermit Road Route (seasonal), ensuring you can reach almost any point of interest with ease. Reddit

Beyond the immediate viewpoints, the South Rim offers a wealth of activities accessible from Mather Campground. Visit the Verkamp's Visitor Center for exhibits on the canyon's history and geology, or attend ranger programs for deeper insights. The Kolb Studio and Lookout Studio offer historical perspectives and stunning views. For those interested in astronomy, the Grand Canyon is a designated International Dark Sky Park, making Mather Campground an excellent base for incredible stargazing opportunities, especially during events like the annual Star Party. Reddit

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