Grand Canyon
Camping For The Novice

INDIAN GARDENS

Bright Angel Trail passes through Indian Garden Campground, which is a beautiful riparian area filled with cottonwood trees. A small creek passes through on its way to the Colorado River. The area is home to a small deer herd and offers a wonderful place to rest out of the sun. Indian Garden is 4.5 miles below the South Rim and takes about 2 hours of hiking time. The return trip from Indian Garden to the South Rim via the Bright Angel Trail takes about 4 hours. There is a small campground and ranger station. Mule trains stop to rest on their way to Plateau Point or Phantom Ranch. Plateau Point is 1.5 miles from Indian Garden and a makes a nice day hike (from Indian Garden) with excellent panoramic views of the Colorado River. Another interesting day hike from Indian Garden is to take the Tonto Trail eastward to Pipe Spring.




BRIGHT ANGEL

Bright Angel Campground is at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.




The campground is 1/2 mile north of the Colorado River, and sits along Bright Angel Creek. The campground is less than 1/2 mile from Phantom Ranch. The area is characterized by the river delta where Bright Angel Creek meets the Colorado River. To reach this campground you can travel the South Kaibab Trail (and cross the black bridge) or the Bright Angel Trail (and cross the silver bridge) from the South Rim, or travel the North Kaibab Trail from the North Rim. Cottonwood trees shade Bright Angel Campground and the creek offers a great place to cool off. Deer, ringtail cats, gray foxes, and squirrels are often seen. Metal food containers are provided to store food. Popular activities include relaxing, resting/wading in Bright Angel Creek, stargazing, fishing, and day hiking. Day hikes include the River Trail, Phantom Overlook, and Ribbon Falls. Check the campground information board for ranger led activities, and evening program topics.