The backcountry is divided into zones and use areas, which may be hundreds or thousands of acres in size, depending on ecology, terrain, and popularity. Backcountry camping is limited to campgrounds or designated campsites in the Corridor and Threshold zones, where amenities range from developed campgrounds with piped water and flush toilets to dry sites with pit toilets. In the Primitive and Wild zones, at-large camping is allowed, with certain restrictions.

The Corridor zone includes Bright Angel, Cottonwood, and Indian Garden campgrounds.

The Threshold zone includes Clear Creek, Horn Creek, Salt Creek, Cedar Spring, Monument Creek, Granite Rapid, Hermit Creek, Hermit Rapid, Horseshoe Mesa, Widforss, Point Sublime, and Eremita Mesa use areas. Stays in campsites in these areas are limited to two nights, except during the off-season (Nov. 15–Feb. 28), when stays of up to four nights are possible.

Backcountry permits must be displayed while you are in camp, attached to a pack, tent, or elsewhere in plain view. Backcountry campsites must be a minimum of 100 feet from water sources. This protects water quality for other campers and wildlife (and helps protect you from thirsty nighttime critters).

Don’t try to improve on Mother Nature with trenching or other earth moving—the site should look undisturbed when you leave. Pack out all trash, used toilet paper, and food scraps. Even the tiniest crumb attracts ants, mice, and other unwelcome visitors.

If you’re hiking to the river, be aware that you may be sharing camps with boating parties. You might enjoy the company (and they may even feed you or let you cadge a beer), but if you prefer privacy, choose a tent site far away from the most likely boat landing.

For information on backcountry permits, see Getting a Backcountry Permit.