Camping at Havasu Falls isn’t just your typical family camping trip. Think vibrant turquoise falls, touring red cliffs, and a valley full of breathtaking pools that feel as if you’ve been transported to a different planet. Sounds incredible, and it truly is! However, it also requires a fair bit of planning to make the logistics work and the fairytale happen. Although tossing your camping gear and driving right to the falls would be great, it is not that easy. But that’s what makes it all the more special! To get to the falls, you’ll hike about ten miles down into the canyon, and yep, that means another ten miles out when it’s time to leave. It takes planning, permits, and the right gear to make it work. But once you’re standing in front of those waterfalls, sweaty and wide-eyed, it’ll be worth every step.
Table Of Contents
Getting a Permit
If you want to camp at Havasu Falls, a permit is necessary. These permits are limited and in high demand, meaning they sell out fast! These permits become available on the official Havasupai tribe website in February and usually sell out within hours. There are absolutely no walk-ins allowed, so planning and securing one of those permits is necessary.
Each of these permits includes your entry fee, camping fee, and environmental fee, as well as several nights allowed in the designated campground between Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls. These permits are non-transferable and non-refundable, meaning you must have your camping group and dates already organized before applying. I know, it’s a lot of forethought, but once you’ve got one, you can relax knowing you’ve locked in the golden ticket to one of the most incredible camping spots in the country.
Getting to the Trailhead
Your adventure will begin at the Hualapai Hilltop in Arizona, a parking lot where you’ll park your car and prepare for the long hike into the canyon. From here, it’s a 10-mile trek one way to the campground, so be prepared for a challenging hike (and make sure you don’t forget your tent!). I would recommend starting as early as possible to avoid the hot Arizona sun.
There are no services at the hilltop, so make sure you get a full tank of gas before you arrive. You’ll also need to bring all your food, gear, and supplies with you; there are no supply stores or grocery shops anywhere in the vicinity. Planning ahead is essential with this hike and will make your trip stress-free and enjoyable. Bring more water and food than you think you will need; you never know what could happen.
The Hike to Havasu Falls
The hike starts with steep switchbacks, descending you down into the canyon. After that, the trail opens into a sandy wash, which is hot and tiresome, so rest and pace yourself when needed. Make sure to bring and drink plenty of water! You’ll need 3-5 liters per person just for the hike in. Along the way, you’ll reach Supai Village, where you’ll check in with your permit before continuing. From the village, it’s about another two miles to the campground.
Take your time and enjoy the journey; this is not a race. The hike is long, but every step brings you closer to an unforgettable view. Make sure you are keeping tabs on your friends, family, and your health status. When you first catch the bright turquoise water contrasting the red canyon walls, you’ll understand why Havasu Falls is so famous. The scenery alone makes every bit of effort worth it.
The Campground
Camping at Havasu Falls is simple but stunning. The campground runs along Havasu Creek for about a mile, with plenty of shaded spots under cottonwood trees. There are no assigned sites, so you pick your spot on a first-come, first-served basis (another reason to leave as early as possible).
Most campers bring a lightweight tent, but many prefer a canvas camping tent for extra comfort and durability, especially when camping with a larger group. Canvas tents stay cooler in the sun and handle the elements better. Using the right tent accessories, like a ground tarp, extra lighting, and even a portable fan, can make your campsite much more comfortable.
Since you have to carry everything in yourself, packing smart is key. The more people in your group, the easier it is to disperse the weight of gear, making the hike more manageable.
Facilities are basic: there are composting toilets, but no showers. Drinking water comes from a natural spring and is generally safe, though many campers bring a filter or purification tablets for extra peace of mind. With the right setup, your tent should be a cool, shady retreat after a long day of hiking and exploring the falls.
What to Pack
Pack smart. You will be lugging everything both in and out of the canyon. So try to pack light without forgetting any essentials. Make sure your gear is durable and tested beforehand.
- Good-fitting backpack
- comfortable hiking shoes
- Lightweight sleeping bag
- Canvas camping tent or backpacking tent
- Tent accessories like lighting, ropes, and ground tarp
- Food and snacks (pre-packaged meals are easy)
- Water bottles or hydration bladders
- Water filter or purification tablets (optional)
- Cooking gear, such as a small stove and fuel
- First aid kit
- Headlamp and extra batteries
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Deck of cards
Don’t pack too much, but also don’t leave essentials behind. The right equipment will make or break your camping experience.
Exploring the Falls
Havasu Falls is what everyone comes to see, yet you can avoid some of the crowds if you explore the many other waterfalls in the area.
- Fifty Foot Falls: A short hike upstream, less crowded and very peaceful.
- Mooney Falls: Just past the campground, but you’ll need to climb down steep ladders and chains to reach it. It is worth the struggle.
- Beaver Falls: A longer day hike downstream with cascading turquoise pools.
- Navajo Falls: A hidden gem you pass on the way to camp, perfect for photos and swimming.
Each waterfall has its beauty, and visiting all of them is part of the magic of camping at Havasu Falls.
Food at Havasu Falls
There aren’t any restaurants or grocery stores at the campground itself. However, if you get lucky, local vendors sell tacos, drinks, and other snacks near Supai village. Do not rely on this. Bring enough food for your entire stay and extra snacks as well. However, also bring some cash just in case you get lucky!
Pack easy, non-perishable meals that are lightweight and won’t spoil. Great options include oatmeal, tortillas, peanut butter, trail mix, dried fruit, and dehydrated meals. Bringing lightweight cooking gear, like a small stove and compact cookware, lets you enjoy hot meals without adding too much weight to your pack. Remember, everything you eat and drink needs to be carried in and out, so keep it simple and practical.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are by far the best seasons to camp at Havasu Falls. Summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures often over 100°F. Winter is cooler, but nights can get very cold.
April, May, September, and October are the perfect times to visit because the temperature is moderate. However, this is when the thick of the crowd is there as well.
Tips for a Great Experience
- Start hiking as early as possible to avoid the heat and score a great camp spot.
- Bring cash, as vendors sometimes sell food but may not take cards.
- Respect the land and the rules of the Havasupai Tribe.
- Pack out all your trash and gear.
- Swim safely and always watch your kids around the water.
Keep in mind
Havasu Falls is not a secret gem or a place where you will find solitude. It is one of the most popular camping destinations in the United States, and that comes with a big crowd, especially during peak season. Getting there as early as possible, setting up a spacious canvas tent, and having a social mindset will help these crowds not feel so overwhelming. Regardless of the people, the turquoise waters, towering waterfalls, and red rock walls make it one of the most beautiful places you will ever see.
Although this trip takes a bit more forethought and planning than an average camping trip, the reward is worth it. This guide covers the basics, but the real magic happens when you’re standing face to face with the gorgeous falls, enjoying the cool mist, and realizing you’re camping in one of the most unique spots on Earth.
With proper preparation, water, snacks, a few smart camping accessories, and your trusty canvas camping tent, you’re set for an adventure you’ll never forget. So pack your gear, lace up your hiking shoes, and take the plunge. Havasu Falls is waiting, and it’s worth the effort.
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