Free, first‑come dispersed camping on a short forest loop one mile south of Grand Canyon National Park. No services, but shaded, level sites suit tents, vans, and large RVs—ideal for budget‑minded South Rim visitors.
Perfect spot for dispersed camping near the grand canyon south rim. No fee to camp here and there is a pit toilet at the park n ride within a 5 minuite walk from most spots. Spots include ample room for parking, a rock fire pit, and a log to sit on. Elk could be heared all night long and the stars are like nothing else ive ever seen. Pack out any trash as there is no dumpster and bear proof your food from the black bears in this area.
The spot marked on Google maps is JUST THE ENTRANCE. the whole road is full of camp spots! The place marked on the map is NOT the only spot to camp. If you see a car, tent or any sort of camping equipment, SOMEONE IS THERE!! do NOT camp on top of other campers. It is RUDE!!
Long jim loop is a USFS road that offers free dispersed camping just outside the Grand Canyon national park. It’s for camping and seeing the canyon, not a place to live for broke people. There’s several roads like this in the area where dispersed camping is allowed, unless otherwise stated on signs. Go elsewhere if you aren’t there for the canyon or don’t have the right equipment to camp. There’s elk, wild horses, deer and a 5 mile paved bike path to the canyon. Do not build new fire rings or park on top of others, there’s hundreds of free spaces in the area including on the other side of town thats much bigger and quieter. Theres a bathroom and trash cans nearby at the parking lot trailhead and town is within walking distance and has numerous places to eat. Do not park at the entrance or go there looking for a free easy place to be. It’s very busy with people actually there for the canyon. It’s not a shelter, it’s a campground. Go to williams if you just need a place to be.
Free, first‑come dispersed camping on a short forest loop one mile south of Grand Canyon National Park. No services, but shaded, level sites suit tents, vans, and large RVs—ideal for budget‑minded South Rim visitors.
Long Jim Loop is a ¾‑mile dirt road (Forest Road 302) circling the west side of Tusayan in the Kaibab National Forest. The Forest Service designates the road “open to dispersed camping,” allowing campers to occupy existing pull‑outs within 30 ft of the roadway for up to 14 days in any 30‑day period. Roughly two dozen clearings offer flat ground, pine shade, and occasional stone fire rings. There are no toilets, water, or trash service—visitors must pack everything in and out and follow Leave No Trace principles. At 6,600 ft (2,012 m) elevation, summer days stay cooler than the canyon rim, while winter snow can render the road impassable. Seasonal fire bans and forest closures are strictly enforced by Kaibab National Forest rangers.
From Tusayan, turn west onto Long Jim Loop Rd (FR 302) just south of the IMAX theater. Dirt road is passable for most vehicles when dry.
Local advice to help you make the most of your visit.
set up farther off the main track if possible.
No. Camping is free, with a 14‑day stay limit.
Reservations are not accepted; sites are first‑come, first‑served.
Yes, in existing rings when fire restrictions are not in effect. Always check current alerts.
Most reviewers report success with rigs up to 40 ft, but conditions vary after rain or snow—scout first.
Both are available for a fee at Grand Canyon Camper Village in Tusayan (0.7 mi south).
Campendium – “Long Jim Loop Dispersed Camping” https://www.campendium.com/long-jim-loopThe Dyrt – “Long Jim Loop Dispersed Camping” https://thedyrt.com/camping/arizona/long-jim-loopBoondocker’s Bible – “Long Jim Loop, Grand Canyon NP” https://www.boondockersbible.com/campsite/long-jim-loop-grand-canyon-np/Kaibab National Forest – Dispersed Camping Guidelines https://www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab
Discover attractions, viewpoints, restaurants and experiences within a short distance.
Centered on Long Jim Loop Camping · showing places within 1.9 mi
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