Phantom Frequently Asked Questions
What sleeping accomodations are available at Phantom Ranch and Bright Angel Campground?
- Phantom Ranch is a concession-run lodging and dining facility. The premises include dormitories and eleven rustic cabins. The dorms are separated by gender, and each has ten bunk beds, a shower, and a restroom. There are two sizes of cabins available; the large cabins sleep ten in bunk beds, and the smaller cabins sleep four in two sets of bunk beds. Each cabin is furnished with all bedding, a cold water sink, toilet, liquid soap/shampoo, and towels. Shower facilities are located in a separate central shower building. You do not need a permit to stay at Phantom Ranch.
- Bright Angel Campground is a 30-site facility run by the National Park Service. There are two available sizes for sites. The majority of the sites are "party" campsites which are for parties up to six people. There are only two "group" sites, and these are for parties of seven to eleven people. A stay at Bright Angel requires a permit for your group. Each permit gives you the right to use "one" campsite in the size reserved and reflected on your permit. A permit is required to stay at Bright Angel campground, and a ranger or NPS volunteer check permits daily to ensure compliance.
How far in advance can reservations be made?
- For Phantom Ranch, reservations are accepted for stays up to 13 months in advance. On the first of each month, they begin accepting reservations for the entire month of the following year. For example, on September 1, 2007, reservations through September 30, 2008 are accepted.
- For Bright Angel Campground, reservations for permits are taken for four months PRIOR to the month you are trying to reserve. For more information and a calendar guide, visit the Permits page.
- Both Phantom Ranch and Bright Angel Campground are extremely popular, making it very difficult to get reservations. Neither accomodation accepts real-time online reservations.
How do I go about making a reservation?
- Phantom Ranch reservations are best attained by calling their main office at 888-29PARKS (888-297-2757). Xanterra, the concession that runs Phantom Ranch, does have an online form available on their web site, but be aware that this is only a request for a reservation and it could take days to hear back from them—and very likely with a message that you didn't get the reservation.
- Bright Angel Campground reservations require a permit that is acquired through the Backcountry Office. Permits requests can be attained in person, via snail mail, or fax. Visit the Permits page for complete information.