North Canyon Camp
A classic first-night Grand Canyon camp at mile 20.5, with access to the sculpted narrows of North Canyon and full Marble Canyon immersion.
North Canyon Camp sits at mile 20.5 on river right in Marble Canyon, the narrow upper corridor of Grand Canyon. This is a popular first-night camp for trips launching from Lees Ferry — close enough to reach comfortably on day one, far enough to feel like you have entered the canyon. The camp occupies a sandy bench above the river at the mouth of North Canyon, a significant side drainage that cuts back into the Kaibab Limestone and Toroweap Formation on the right wall. The hike up North Canyon is one of the best short walks in Marble Canyon — a narrow, sculpted slot that climbs through polished Redwall Limestone with good narrows and pour-offs within the first half mile. The camp itself is exposed to afternoon sun but catches canyon breezes. Redwall Limestone cliffs rise directly across the river, glowing orange at sunset.