Havasupai Campground, Havasu Falls Travel Guide

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Experience the magic of Havasupai: Turquoise waterfalls, stunning canyons, and a connection to the Havasupai Tribe's ancient heritage.

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Havasupai Campground

Nestled in the heart of the Grand Canyon, the Havasupai Campground offers a unique camping experience amidst stunning blue-green waterfalls and towering red rock cliffs. This remote paradise requires advance planning and permits, but the reward is unparalleled natural beauty and a connection to the Havasupai Tribe's rich history and culture.

A brief summary to Havasupai Campground

Havasu Creek, Supai, Arizona, 86435, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Havasupai Campground.

Reservations are essential and difficult to obtain; plan well in advance and be flexible with your dates.
Pack light and carry out everything you bring in to help preserve the pristine environment.
Be prepared for a strenuous 10-mile hike to and from the campground, or consider using the helicopter or pack mules.
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as temperatures can be extreme, especially during the summer months.
Respect the Havasupai Tribe's rules and traditions, and be mindful of their cultural heritage.

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Explore Havasupai Campground on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Havasupai Campground, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

The final approach to Havasupai Campground begins at Hualapai Hilltop, where you'll park your vehicle. From Flagstaff, drive west on I-40 and take Exit 123 towards AZ-66/Seligman/Peach Springs. From Las Vegas, take US-93 South to Kingman, then merge onto I-40 E towards Flagstaff/Phoenix and take Exit 53 for AZ-66 E. From Phoenix, take I-17 North to AZ-69 N towards Prescott, then merge onto AZ-89 to I-40 and head west to Exit 123. From Exit 123, turn onto Indian Road 18 and drive for approximately 60 miles to Hualapai Hilltop. Note: Indian Road 18 is open range, so drive carefully. Ensure you have enough fuel, as the closest gas stations are about 70 miles away. There are no public transportation options to Hualapai Hilltop. Parking is free, but can be tight for RVs. From Hualapai Hilltop, you have the option to hike the 8 miles to Supai Village. Check in for your permit at the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn before heading to the trailhead.
Helicopter

For a quicker descent, a helicopter service operates from Hualapai Hilltop to Supai Village on a first-come, first-served basis. The flight is approximately 10 minutes. From Supai Village, it's an additional 2-mile hike to the campground. The helicopter costs $85 per person each way, including one medium-sized backpack (up to 40 lbs). Note that tribal members always have priority, so wait times can be long. The helicopter service is available on Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
Mule

Pack mules can be hired to transport gear from Hualapai Hilltop to Supai Village. Reservations must be made online in advance. The cost is $400 round trip for one mule, which can carry up to 4 bags (maximum 32 pounds each). Mules cannot carry coolers.

Discover more about Havasupai Campground

The Havasupai Campground, located within the Havasupai Indian Reservation, is a truly unique destination for those seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience. Situated at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, the campground stretches for about a mile along Havasu Creek, between Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls. The vibrant turquoise waters of the creek, cascading over travertine dams, create a striking contrast with the surrounding red rock canyon walls.Camping here requires a permit and reservations made well in advance through the Havasupai Tribe's official website. Securing a permit is notoriously difficult, as demand far exceeds the limited number available. Permits are typically for a minimum of three nights and four days, and reservations are non-refundable and non-transferrable. No day hiking is allowed.The journey to the campground is an adventure in itself. Most visitors hike the ten miles from Hualapai Hilltop, the trailhead located at the end of Indian Road 18. For those who prefer not to hike with their gear, pack mules can be hired to transport belongings. Alternatively, a helicopter service is available on a first-come, first-served basis.The campground itself is a 'camp where you want' setup, with no designated or assigned sites. Campers can set up their tents anywhere within the designated area, respecting the land and fellow campers. Composting toilets are available throughout the campground, and fresh drinking water can be found at Fern Spring. Campers must pack out everything they pack in, ensuring the preservation of this pristine environment.The Havasupai have inhabited this canyon for over 800 years, cultivating a close relationship with the land. The tribe's history is intertwined with the canyon's landscape, and the campground itself holds historical significance. The site of the modern campground was historically used for Havasupai cremations.Visiting the Havasupai Campground is more than just a camping trip; it's an opportunity to connect with nature, witness breathtaking beauty, and learn about the rich culture and history of the Havasupai people.