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Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
I just booked a site in Mather CG on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Arriving October 10 for seven nights. It’s been decades since I’ve been to the Grand Canyon and never there for more than a day.

My DW, DD and our three small dogs will be making the trip. I plan on renting a small SUV at Enterprise near Flagstaff. I would like to make this a trip to remember.

What can I expect to do that the whole gang can do? I know that pets are not allowed below the rim. My DW won’t kennel the little ones. Just curious if anyone here has ventured forth with their pets in tow.

The CG looks very pleasant and I’ve selected what looks to be a nice pull through site. I’m hoping a second vehicle will not present a problem. I know that this can be an issue in Yellowstone. The chosen site looks to be very long. I’ve seen 40’ Class A’s in similar sites.

I know many here have visited Mather CG. Any insights would be greatly appreciated. My wife and daughter have never been to the canyon and other than the Brady Bunch adventure have had little experience with the area.

Here’s a pic of our site. Looks as though the CG has been recently resurfaced. Always nice to see.

Thanks,

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #1 –
Hey Kent,

Was it easy to get a reservation? I would like to get to the Grand Canyon before or just after the Balloon Festival.
My wheels:
2003 MB
2012 Jeep Liberty
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #2 –
Kent-

My wife and I enjoyed our three-night stay in Mather in March of 2015. It has a more-natural feel than an RV park. We didn't do much more than take the bus and walk around the rim, one day each to the each east end and west end. Should we ever return to the Grand Canyon we think we might try Desert View campground, which was closed for the season at the time we were there.

Our Mather campsite had water only, so we ran the generator morning and evening to charge the batteries. Our LD had no solar, but it would not have been too useful in Mather, with all the nice shade.

Our pet was an indoor-only cat; there was no thought of taking him below the rim!

It know none of this is much help. But hey, have a great time!

Mark H.

P.S.- On the issue of reservations, it took us three weeks of daily (online) attempts to get a three-continuous-night stay in March.
Former owner, 31-foot gas Class A
Former owner, 1997-8 mid-bath
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #3 –
 
Quote from: Kent Heckethorn  - 
My wife and daughter have never been to the canyon and other than the Brady Bunch adventure have had little experience with the area.
Ahh, the Brady Bunch . . . Probably should not admit this but I used to love watching them when I was growing up. So much so, I bought the complete series, LOL!  The Grand Canyon episode was actually a three-part episode.  Kent, if you ever want to borrow the DVD set, just let me know!

I sure do miss green shag carpet, not!


Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #4 –
Mather CG... Well, if my memory serves that is the place where I met embarrassment. We were newbies back then and knew not much about reservations, particularly in a National Park. So when we pulled up to the Entry Kiosk and were told we did NOT have reservations we were stunned. That is until the Ranger suggested we might inquire at the Grand Canyon Camper Village in the little town of Tusayan just south of the GCNP. Returning to Tusayan we located the Camper Village and were welcomed with open arms and shown to our reserved site.   ::)

The biggest bonus for me was that there was no shortage of Elk wandering willy-nilly throughout the park.   ;D

HOME | GC Camper Village
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #5 –
And, as far as things to do, here are a couple. Not sure about the pets though so you would have to call and see if that’s doable:

Grand Canyon Train | Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel

Grand Canyon Tours | Top Rated Jeep Tours at the South Rim | Pink® Jeep® Tours

Exploring the city of Williams might offer some entertainment:

Find Things to Do In Williams, AZ - City of Williams, AZ

There are some fun Route 66 themed cafes in town:

https://www.yelp.com/search?cflt=diners&find_loc=WILLIAMS%2C+AZ+86046



Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #6 –
"Just curious if anyone here has ventured forth with their pets in tow."
----
Traveling with animals presents a challenge for the animal(s) and for the owner(s); one has to make accommodations and compromises in where to go, how long to stay, what kinds of activities are workable for the people and pets, and how to keep the animal cool/warm/safe when left for short periods in the RV.

You will not be able to take the dogs into or onto many facilities, restaurants, attractions, or trails. You can't leave the dogs in a car in a parking area for more than short periods, and if it's at all "warm", obviously not at all. Leaving the dog(s) (or cat) in the rig can be OK, if the rig can be kept cool (or warm enough). The dog(s) can't be tied out or penned outside of your rig without your direct supervision; they are vulnerable to theft and/or potentially being injured or killed by wildlife or loose dogs. If your dogs are not trained, if they need exercise and don't get it (finding places to let the dogs off leash safely can be a real hassle), if they need special food or medication or care, if they're "barkers", and/or they might tear the rig apart if left alone for even a short time, an RV trip can be a less than fun experience.

"Activity curtailment" can be an issue if one travels solo, but since there will be three of you, one might have to stay put and mind the dogs while the other two "goseedo", i.e., taking turns at sharing the responsibilities of doing things you want to do while still managing the dogs' safety and comfort.

I do understand about the reluctance to kennel the dogs; the cats (with one exception) always had a cat sitter at home when I traveled, but my dogs have always gone with me in the RV(s). But, candidly, there have been several times over the years when traveling without the dog would have be a lot more convenient and "activity friendly" for me - and for the dog. (I'm not telling the dog this!)

As ever, YMMV.

 
2003 TK has a new home
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #7 –
Greg,

So it’s good to know I’m not the only LDOF member that has the Brady Bunch on disc. It’s on Hulu too so between episodes of Fraiser, MASH, Fresh Off The Boat and “The B Bunch” we can fill up an evening pretty well.

Brought Northern Exposure with me on my trip to Big Bear this week. Great stuff. Always nice to have a few classics in the rig. One of these days I’ll burn em onto a drive and save some room in the cabinets.

Steve,

Your lesson learned is one reason I do so much planning on our trips. Hate being turned away at the gate.

Thanks for the link.

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #8 –
Hi Kent,

I suspect my Mather info is even more dated than yours, haven’t camped there since August of 1976.

Have been back another 6 times, last time for my father’s 80th in 2016, we rented out a train car on Williams train that does a round trip up to the canyon and back.

Except for the original trip back in 1976, have not spent more that two days per visit, just not all that much to do on the rim.  I am looking forward to hear what others suggest to do for a week there.
Dave

2017 TK
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #9 –
Just thinking outside of the box a little, have you considered contacting a pet sitting service like “ Wags”.  Not at home but at the Park.  Wags and similar orgs do a light background check on the people they hire.  Might be the ticket for a family night out at the lodge which is supposed to be very special. K
Currently: 2008 36' Tiffin Open Road
Previously: 2007 Mid Bath
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #10 –
Joan,

We’ve had the three dogs with us on two occasions and those times were not  without their challenges. They certainly cannot be left in the rig on their own. The rig would be torn apart. So much to take into consideration.

They are ok when I’m not with the rest of the group but are a large handful when the Mrs is away. Taking the dogs with us has been something we’ve been reluctant to do. There will be some compromises made as to who stays with the pets while the other two take a spin about the place.

My DD is very understanding and would likely stay home with the little ones but a real family trip is so engaging and memorable. A family pow-wow may be in order.

Kent

2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #11 –
Mather is fantastic.  Much better than Trailer Village.  Wish I could get back again.
2003 MB
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #12 –
This might be a minority opinion, but 7 days would be a pretty long stay for me unless you plan to hike into the canyon (strenuous).   There is more to do and see in the canyon than on the rim, but it’s much harder to get to.   I’ve visited the south rim 3 times in the last 10 years by RV and stayed at Mather each time.  I’ve also rafted the canyon once. 

I would spend a day or two visiting the various overlooks and historic spots.  There is a bike path type trail along the rim that can serve as a nice way to get away from crowds.  Sunrise and or sunset watching is popular. 

Animal watching, Elk and Deer, is popular with our gang. 

Ranger programs can be interesting.  We attended one on night animals and another about how the park service manages noise from plane and helicopter flights. 

October is prime hiking season after a hot summer and the park service will probably be running an early morning hiker express shuttle for hikers who want to attempt a rim to rim hike.  I would need some training before attempting that one.

If you have any interest in a helicopter tour, it will give you a perspective that you won’t get elsewhere.  It would be a splurge that the group would remember for sure.

I realize that much of that isn’t pet friendly, but hopefully it helps a little. 


Rich


2003 MB
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #13 –
"... or if they're "barkers", and/or they might tear the rig apart if left alone for even a short time..."

Thanks for the memories Joan! Certainly you remember my Boston Terrier, "Jiggs". He wasn't inclined to bark but yet didn't like being in the rig alone. I don't recall how many times when I was outside and he in that he would stand in the driver's seat and put his front paws on the horn and wake the entire campground while looking to see what I was doing. Talk about red face!

And speaking of the South Rim of GC, I do believe they have a kennel (when it's open) where you can safely park the dogger while you take in the views.   ;)
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #14 –
I concur that the Trailer Village leaves a lot to be desired. I also agree that a full week exploring the rim may be too long, however I looked at the drive to the North Rim which may be a possibility.

My DW tends to enjoy hanging out at camp so that could consume a day in itself. She also felt the dogs may be too much and has broached the subject with my DD. I also spoke with her about it and now the doogers are staying home with her. I promised to take her on a journey on our own. That’s settled and now onto the real trip. Me and the Misses.

Any further suggestions and tips will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks again,

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #15 –
Kent

To reach the North Rim starting at the South Rim would be a verrry long day. Better a visit to NR from a concurrent visit at Zion. Been there, done that! Also the elevation at NR is much higher than SR and consequently the seasons are shorter. But it keeps the tourist load down. There is limited camping at the NR but I favor the USFS Campground at Jacob's Lake. There are numerous roads going east and west from the north/south road between Jacob's Lake and the canyon. A USFS Map would be handy but Google is always your friend.

Kaibab National Forest - Jacob Lake Campground
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #16 –
A couple decades ago in the fall when we visited the south rim, I remember the upper reaches of the Bright Angel Trail was pretty crammed with tourists. The park service had a very life-like sculpture of a male bighorn sheep just above the trail to entertain visitors. while admiring him, his head moved...

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #17 –
I’ve never been to North Rim and DW has never been to Bryce.  I see a trip in our future!
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #18 –
Thanks to all. Such useful input.

Deb,

Booking was not a horrible challenge. Getting a full week Sunday to Sunday was tricky.

I used Rec.gov to explore and reserve the site. I used YouTube to get a better feel for the Mather. https://youtu.be/LeqPZDyfpKY

Between the two sites I was able to make my choice. 27’ sites as I searched were limited to 70 sites for that week. If you don’t mind moving sites throughout your visit, there may be more sites to your liking. The CG layout reminds me Yellowstone at Grant CG on the West Thumb. Quite a few pull throughs. Seems like each site is somewhat isolated from one another.

Now that my daughter and the pets will be staying home, I may reconsider a rental vehicle.

Good luck with your search. Six months out may seem like a long time but it does open up the choices quite a bit.

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #19 –
The dogs aren't very happy in a crate.  If I am concerned about the state of the rig with unchaperoned dogs running amok, they forgive me after a while.

Our first trip to Mather CG,  the host suggested we not put out the sewer hose unless we were actually dumping.  The ravens have trouble differentiating them from a large tasty worm.   By the time they recognize the difference, the hose is well ventilated.   Duct tape worked till the next RV supply store.

Joel
Joel & Terry Wiley
dog Zeke
2013  31 IB   Orwan   / 2011 CRV Tow'd LWEROVE
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #20 –
"To reach the North Rim starting at the South Rim would be a verrry long day."

After consulting Google Maps and other sources at hand I have determined the shortest road distance from GC South Rim to GC North Rim!

At the south rim follow Hwy 64 east to the town of Cameron. From there take Hwy 89 north to Bitter Springs. Bear west by north on Hwy 89A to Marble Canyon/Vermillion Cliffs. Continue west on 89A to Jacob Lake. Turn south on Rt. 67 to the North Rim.

Total road miles roughly 432.64 and if you can maintain an average of 50mph you will arrive some ten (10) hours later.   :o   ;)
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #21 –
Yes, South Rim (Mather) to North Rim Campground is 211 miles, little over 4 hours driving, a pretty grueling day trip.
Dave

2017 TK
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #22 –
"...little over 4 hours driving..."

Dave

 ;D  If you can make that trip over the route I outlined in under five hours and document the result I will buy you a 6 Pac of your choice!   ::)
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #23 –
"...little over 4 hours driving..."

I discovered a miscalculation in my mapping program and am admitting that your figures are closer to correct than mine.

But that being said, I'll still bet you wouldn't make the trip in under five hours, there are just too many things along that road that will slow you down.   :o  So the offer still stands! I could spend and hour or so just in Cameron looking through the Trading Post, Museum and the Little Colorado River Bridge.  ;D  You would have to by-pass Vermillion Cliffs and the Wave!   :( 
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
 
Re: Mather CG on South Rim of Grand Canyon
Reply #24 –
I agree, doing south to north rim in a bit more than four hours would ignore the whole point in being there!
Dave

2017 TK