Diamond Creek Campground

Frommer's Review

This natural campground at the confluence of Diamond Creek and the Colorado River (western end of the canyon) is the only place where you can drive to the river inside the Grand Canyon and camp alongside it. The gravel road, descending from 4,600 feet in Peach Springs to 1,325 feet at the campground, sometimes gets washed out, but high-clearance vehicles can negotiate it during dry weather. (Don't risk it during monsoon season.) Surrounded by cliffs of granite and schist, the campground sits at a lovely spot. Perhaps the prettiest time to be here is the early evening. Hiking and fishing are both possible; you just need to get a permit from the Hualapai Lodge at the top of the hill.

But there are some real drawbacks. You probably won't be alone; the beach serves as a popular launch point and pullout for raft trips (the Hualapai River Runners begin their trips here). There are only two portable toilets, and you'll need to bring your own drinking water and pack out your own garbage. If you don't commandeer one of the three metal ramadas, pitch your own so you don't broil in the midday sun. (Located just above the canyon's lowest point, this is one of its hottest places.) Portable stoves are permitted. Note that the campground often experiences strong winds in March and April.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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