Adventure Hikers & Campers Guide to Bright Angel Campground -Updated

Bright Angel is located approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of a mile downstream from Phantom Ranch and is operated by Grand Canyon National Park. A backcountry permit is required for camping anywhere in the Inner Canyon including Bright Angel, Indian Garden, and Cottonwood Campgrounds.

There are 33 campsites which consists of 31 small group sites (1-6 people) and 2 large group sites (7-11 people). Camping is extremely popular and therefore permits are very difficult to obtain. More details can be found on the Backcountry Permits page.

The small group sites vary in size but none are very large, so it is a good idea to keep that in mind if there are 6 of you and everyone is planning on taking a tent! It is a good idea to take the smallest tent possible and/or plan on sharing. Here are photos of some of the small group sites.

Campsite | Photo courtesy of Grand Canyon National Park - by Mike Quinn

Download NPS Corridor Trails Hiking Map (PDF – Free Adobe Reader required)
There is one building with toilets in the campground located directly in the middle of the row of sites. They have two stalls each for the men and women, and there is a ‘slop’ sink with running water located outside the men’s side. This is where you can wash dishes and yourself. The restrooms have running water and flush toilets and electric lights.
Outside the restrooms is a bulletin board where the rangers post the weather, ranger programs, and any other important notices daily.
The showers at Phantom Ranch are NOT available to campers. You have to be staying at the Lodge to use them.
Coffee is available at the side window at Phantom Ranch starting at 5:00 AM. You can’t get t-shirts or any other items from the window.
Phantom Ranch Canteen hours are: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM and again at 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This is when it is open to the public and not being used for meals or meal prep.

Editor notes: we researched new updates and details in June 2023, see these additions below.

Beginner Hikers Guide to Bright Angel Campground

Are you a beginning hiker visiting Bright Angel for the first time? You might be perplexed as you try to figure things out and prepare for the trip.

Here’s what we recommend.

Backstory

Bright Angel Campground is a sought-after destination located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, just half a mile north of the Colorado River on the banks of Bright Angel Creek[1].

Accessing

The campground can be accessed via the Bright Angel Trail (about 10 miles from the South Rim), the South Kaibab Trail (about 7 miles from South Rim/ Yaki Point), or via the North Kaibab Trail (14 miles from the North Rim)[2].

Let’s Guide You

To help you prepare for your hike to Bright Angel Campground, here’s a beginner’s guide with essential tips and information.

Planning Your Hike

Choose the right season: Fall and spring are the best times to hike the Bright Angel Trail, as temperatures are cooler and crowds are smaller[3].
Check the weather: Always check the weather forecast before your hike to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience[4].
Obtain a backcountry permit: A permit is required to camp at Bright Angel Campground. Visit the Backcountry Permit page to learn how to obtain one[5].

Hiking Tips

Start early: Begin your hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and have enough time to complete your hike[6].
Stay on the trail: Stick to the official trail to protect the environment and ensure your safety[7].
Pace yourself: Take your time and hike at a comfortable pace, especially on the uphill sections[8].
Stay hydrated: Carry plenty of water and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty[8].
Eat regularly: Consume small amounts of food every half hour to maintain your energy levels[8].
Wear appropriate clothing and footwear: Dress in layers and wear comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes or boots[9].
Pack essentials: Bring a map, compass, first-aid kit, extra food, water, and clothing, as well as a headlamp or flashlight[4].
Know your limits: Be aware of your physical abilities and don’t push yourself too hard[8].
Practice Leave No Trace principles: Respect the environment by not littering, staying on the trail, and being considerate of other hikers[7].

Bright Angel Campground Facilities

Bright Angel Campground has 33 tent campsites, each with a table, two ammo boxes for food storage, and an area to pitch a tent[2]. The campground has a ranger station, drinking water, and flush toilets[2].

Phantom Ranch, less than half a mile from the campground, has a snack bar and offers dinner at the lodge with advance reservations[2].

Safety Tips

Be prepared for extreme heat: The Grand Canyon can experience high temperatures, so take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses[6].
Know your water sources: Make sure you know where to find water along the trail and if the sources are open[6].
Be aware of wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and do not feed or approach them[9].
Hike with a buddy: If possible, hike with a partner or group for safety and support[9].

By following these tips and planning your hike carefully, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable experience at Bright Angel Campground in the Grand Canyon. Happy hiking!

Citations:
[1] https://www.grandcanyontrust.org/camp/cpe-bright-angel-campground
[2] https://www.campsitephotos.com/campground/az/bright-angel/?amp=1&csp_rewrite_state=az
[3] https://bearfoottheory.com/trail-guide-day-hiking-the-bright-angel-trail-to-indian-garden-grand-canyon/
[4] https://www.hipcamp.com/journal/top-10-hiking-tips-for-beginners/
[5] https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/campsite-information.htm
[6] https://www.theadventurediet.com/blog/day-hiking-bright-angel-trail-in-grand-canyon
[7] https://hikingguy.com/how-to-hike/hiking-for-beginners-11-essential-tips/
[8] https://azraft.com/bright-angel-trail-hiking-tips/
[9] https://www.wellplannedjourney.com/hiking-for-beginners/

Explorations from Bright Angel Campground

While your core home in Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park is Bright Angel Campground, there is so much more to explore around this coveted site.

This grand region, hemmed between South Rim and North Rim, is laden with attractions that hikers love to explore, right from the mystical Phantom Ranch to the roaring Colorado River.

Here’s more to explore and relish around the Bright Angel Campground.

An Overview of The Grand Canyon National Park

Nestled in the heart of Arizona, the Grand Canyon National Park is a monumental natural wonder. Managed by the National Park Service (NPS), it’s a dream destination for campers and backpackers, allured by the captivating Bright Angel Trail and the South Kaibab Trail. The Bright Angel Campground, at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, is a hotspot for adventurers year-round.

The North Rim is quieter and more remote, a perfect spot for solitude lovers. It offers a variety of hiking trails and incredible views of the canyon walls.
The South Rim is home to the bustling Grand Canyon Village and the busy Grand Canyon South Rim visitor center. It’s also where the Bright Angel Trailhead is located.
Grand Canyon Village is where you find amenities like restrooms, an emergency phone, and a ranger station, ensuring a safe experience for every visitor.

The Fascinating Corridor Trails

The Corridor Trails, including the Bright Angel Trail and the North and South Kaibab Trails, are well-maintained trails that lead campers down to the Bright Angel Campground. The Rim Trail is an accessible and less strenuous option for those who prefer less challenging routes. While the switchbacks might be demanding, the breath-taking views of the canyon walls are worth every step.

Camping Options and Amenities

The National Park Service provides campers with a variety of options for their Grand Canyon adventure.

Bright Angel Campground: This campground, located by the Bright Angel Creek, features 33 campsites complete with picnic tables, food storage boxes, and space for tents.
Cottonwood Campground: A smaller campground on the North Kaibab Trail, nestled among cottonwood trees, it’s a great resting point for backpackers.
Indian Garden Campground: Halfway down the Bright Angel Trail, you’ll find this shady oasis, great for a day hike.
Mather Campground: Situated in the Grand Canyon Village, it’s a convenient location with close proximity to the South Rim.

Remember, a backcountry permit from nps.gov is required to stay overnight in these campgrounds.

Bright Angel Campground Facilities

Bright Angel Campground is equipped with restrooms and flush toilets, and the nearby Phantom Ranch provides drinking water and even a snack bar for a quick bite. The ranger station is also on site for visitor support.

Points of Interest around Bright Angel Campground

Phantom Ranch: Here, the Colorado River is in view. It offers overnight lodging and meal services, but be sure to make reservations in advance.
Plateau Point: Just 1.5 miles from Indian Garden Campground, this viewpoint offers stunning panoramic vistas of the Grand Canyon.
Havasupai Gardens: For waterfall enthusiasts, a detour to Havasupai Gardens presents cascading falls and crystal blue waters.
Bright Angel Lodge: Located near the trailhead, this historic lodge offers accommodations and dining options.

Bright Angel Campground: A Year-Round Haven

The campground is open year-round, but remember to check the weather forecast before your hike. Keep in mind that during winter months, not all facilities may be available.

In conclusion, whether it’s the challenge of the switchbacks on the Bright Angel Trail or the serene peace by Bright Angel Creek, every hiker has something to cherish at the Bright Angel Campground.

And remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to keep this majestic place beautiful for future visitors. Happy adventuring in the heart of Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park!

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