The only eating—and dining—establishment in the inner canyon is the Phantom Ranch Canteen. But don’t worry: Whether you’re cooking up a package of instant noodles on your backpacking stove or enjoying sunset while a handy boat crew fixes you steak and strawberry shortcake, it all tastes better when every table has a view and you’ve worked up a good appetite exploring.

If you’re backpacking, be sure not to attract unwanted dinner guests: Use an ammo can or a high-tech food sack to keep ringtails and rodents out of your food supply.

Competition for river camps can be fierce during the high season, and if you’re on a commercial trip, you’ll notice that guides often pause to confer with each other about where their group plans to spend the night. Some beaches are large enough to offer space for two or three parties of 10 or more.

Other camps have space for only a few boaters and backpackers, so it’s important to plan ahead, have a backup, and be courteous to everyone you encounter, since you just might be sharing camp with them downriver.

Commercial rafting companies usually provide tents, sleeping bags, and pads. During the summer rainy season, most thundershowers pass before sunset. Unless the weather is threatening, you’ll probably find yourself forgoing a tent and sleeping under the stars.