A trip to the Grand Canyon is definitely one that every avid explorer should have on their bucket list! It’s the kind of journey that will leave you in awe, not to mention you’d be heading to one of the world's natural seven wonders. However, things like taking a wrong turn, arriving to see a massive crowd, or getting lost in the canyon can easily ruin your experience, and we don’t want that. To ensure this doesn’t happen to you, here’s what you need to know before your campervan adventure at Grand Canyon National Park.
1. Check park closure times
Before you leave for one of the most epic hikes in the world, check to see if the park (or a particular section of the park) is closed. This happens often for several reasons. There could have been a fire or a rock slide, making the path dangerous.
In fact, on the 4th of July 2025, the Dagon Bravo fire started and burned until the 25th, so many of the trails on the North Rim of the canyon were shut down to the public for the rest of the season. You wouldn’t want to get there and find that you can’t do much, so research beforehand.
2. Try to get to destinations outside of peak times
As one of the most popular National Parks in the US, Grand Canyon National Park can get insanely busy, drawing close to six million people each year. You want to avoid the peak times, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to get there at dawn if you’re going for a hike, or explore a bit into the early evening to avoid the crowds. Trust us, this will make for a far more enjoyable experience.
3. Make sure that your campervan is well-equipped
When visiting somewhere as remote as the Grand Canyon, it’s not just about getting there; it’s about being prepared for when you arrive. Before hitting the road, check that your campervan is fully stocked and in good condition. This means having plenty of water, a first-aid kit, a working stove, and a reliable GPS or offline map. Phone signal can be patchy in the park, so don’t rely on your mobile for navigation. Be prepared and have everything you need available offline.
Having some extra food supplies on hand is also a good idea. You never know when you’ll stay a bit longer to catch another sunset or when a slight detour might become an extra day’s adventure. The Grand Canyon’s beauty can easily tempt you to slow down and take it all in, so being well-prepared lets you do that without any stress.
4. Remember that you can’t take pets into the canyon
It’s worth noting that pets aren’t allowed below the rim of the Grand Canyon. The terrain can be rough, the temperatures extreme, and there’s little shade or water. If you’re travelling with a furry friend, check out nearby kennels or pet boarding facilities. There are some pet-friendly areas above the rim where you can still take them for a walk, but when hiking down into the canyon, it’s best to leave them in safe hands for the day.
5. Always bring extra sunscreen
The desert sun can be brutal, even when it doesn’t feel that hot. Always wear extra sunscreen and reapply regularly, especially when hiking. A wide-brimmed hat and light, breathable clothing can save you from scorching. Don’t underestimate how quickly the sun can catch you out at high altitudes; even a short walk can leave you looking like a cooked prawn if you’re not careful.
6. Watch the weather if you’re in the canyon
The Grand Canyon’s weather can change in a flash. It might be warm and sunny one minute and stormy the next, especially during monsoon season. Check the forecast before heading out and pack layers to prepare for anything. Avoid narrow trails or slot canyons if rain is expected, as flash floods can happen suddenly.
7. Don’t veer off track
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment, especially when the scenery is this good. But, whatever you do, always stick to marked trails. The canyon is huge, and losing your bearings is surprisingly easy. Even experienced hikers can get disoriented, and rescue operations aren’t always that simple. Enjoy the adventure, but do it safely.
Where can you get a campervan rental?
A road trip to the Grand Canyon is a great way to experience this natural marvel. If you’re looking for a reliable campervan, see Travellers Autobarn's campervan range in Las Vegas. They’re one of the best places to rent an RV or campervan, and are so conveniently located for those looking to venture off to the Grand Canyon.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the Grand Canyon will be a memory you can hold onto for the rest of your life, but you don’t want that memory filled with the small details that made the trip uncomfortable or the mistakes you made to get there. This is why planning is so important. Try to avoid the crowds where you can, keep your camper stocked, and always respect the land and its conditions, and you should be ready!
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About the Author:
Jennifer Anders is a freelance writer who has traveled extensively and enjoys exploring off-the-beaten-path locations around the world.
She loves hiking national parks, windsurfing, and photographing wildlife.
Aside from all those crazy activities, you'll also find her eating plenty of local street food. She is absolutely fearless when it comes to trying new things.