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Basic campground below the North Rim of the Grand Canyon along the North Kaibab Trail.
A backcountry campground along the North Kaibab Trail, roughly the midpoint between the North Rim and the Colorado River — currently closed following an August 2026 flash flood.
When open, Cottonwood Campground sits along the North Kaibab Trail, roughly midway between the North Rim and the Colorado River. A wilderness permit is required.
As of a recent NPS alert, Cottonwood Campground is closed along with the North Kaibab Trail itself, following flash flood damage on August 29. Check the park's official trail closures page before planning any North Kaibab corridor trip.
46 reviews
2 years ago
A really special experience. Sleeping under the stars with the walls of the Grand Canyon around you. Be aware that the drinking water taps along the trail are sometimes turned off meaning you have to bring lots of water as well as a water treatment systems for water from the creek. The hike back up to the north rim is steep and intense, even for very experienced hikers - definitely start well before sunrise to avoid the severe heat in summer.
9 years ago
I was there in March and it was wonderful. It wasn't too crowded, but even if it had been full I think it would have been ok since the camp sites are further apart than the other main corridor campgrounds. There are a few trees for shade. Running water is only available seasonally, but Bright Angel Creek is nearby if you do need to filter. There are composting toilets. This is a great little campground for such a busy trail.
5 years ago
They tell you to bring backup water purification for a reason! I had iodine tablets that came in handy once the pipeline broke, but some people ignored the messages and were stuck without a filter or purification. Do your diligence when planning your trek. It's a great spot to camp, right next to the creek. Toilets are clean. Some campsites had some shade, others were pretty wide-open for sun. There are 11 sites total so it stayed pretty quiet. Did South Kaibab trailhead to Cottonwood Day 1, up to North Rim and back Day 2, and Cottonwood to Bright Angel trailhead Day 3, which was perfect for our pace.
2 years ago
Great half-way spot between the north rim and phantom ranch. A few spots with shade. Best part is the spotless bathrooms. I've never seen such clean and well-maintained backcountry bathrooms. Pit toilets, but no smell and no graffiti. Nicely done NPS. Stayed there October 10, 2023.
6 years ago
Very nice campground. I stayed Jan 29, 2020. I was the only camper and actually I never saw another person past Phantom Ranch. Great stargazing and it was kind of nice to have the grounds to myself. The faucets were still off which is disappointing as the campground is open. The restrooms were very clean and tent sites were clear of debris. Instead of using the faucets I just gathered water from the nearby creek.