North Rim Campground has 83 campsites ($18/night). A maximum of two vehicles, three tents, and six people are allowed per site, with trailers, pop-ups, and campers counting as a second vehicle. Some sites accommodate RVs. There are no hookups, but there is a dump station. View sites along the rim of Transept Canyon are $25. Senior and Access passholders qualify for a 50 percent discount.

The campground is open May 15–October 15, and reservations can be made in advance through the National Recreation Service (877/444-6777, www.recreation.gov). For information, call 928/638-7814. The campground fills up quickly, and it’s best to make reservations as far ahead as possible—up to six months in advance, or a year for group campsites. However, if you can’t resist gambling, especially against long odds, you can add your name to a waiting list after 8 a.m., then return at 3 p.m. to see if you landed a spot.

The campground is shaded by ponderosa pines, and the General Store, laundry, and showers are a short walk away. Both the Transept Trail and the Bridle Path connect the campground to the lodge, about a mile away. Pets are allowed in the campground, but must be leashed and cannot be left unattended. Charcoal or wood fires are permitted in campsite grills. Wood-gathering is not permitted; wood can be purchased at the General Store.

After the park officially closes in mid- October, a few sites and limited services may be available on a first-come, first-served basis until snow closes Highway 67. Group campsites are available throughout the winter to hikers, snowshoers, and skiers with a backcountry permit.

Toroweap Campground is also operated by the Park Service, but it is 150 miles and a world away from Bright Angel Point. Ten primitive sites are situated around a stone amphitheater less than two miles from the rim overlook. There are fire grates, picnic tables, and composting toilets, but no water, and you’ll need to pack out your trash. The single group site can be reserved (928/638-7870), but the others are first-come, first-served.

The Park Service doesn’t charge a fee to camp here, but arrive by midafternoon, as the campground may fill up during the spring, especially on weekends. If the campground is full, stop at the Tuweep Ranger Station (about six miles from the rim) for information about camping on nearby BLM land. Because of the lower elevation (4,500 feet) and little shade, expect warmer temperatures in the summer.