Monument Creek is a peaceful campsite tucked into a side canyon of the inner Grand Canyon. In the cool grotto alongside a small Colorado River tributary you can enjoy the shade of cottonwood trees and overhanging rock walls. With this area as a base camp, you can embark on side hikes on the Tonto Platform or down to Granite Rapids. The campground is positioned in the transition area between the Grand Canyon's lowest sandstone layer, the Tapeats, and the basal layer of extremely old Vishnu Schist. Erosional forces have carved away an undulating slot canyon and a picturesque stone tower, Monument Creek Pinnacle, right next to the camping area.
Accessible by the Tonto Trail, this spot is a perfect destination all on its own or as a stopover on a longer trek. The small watercourse here, Monument Creek, is spring fed and flows year round, though purification is recommended before drinking. Camping is allowed in designated sites only, though these are unmarked and recognizable only as cleared spots among the vegetation. As with all Grand Canyon backcountry camping, you must pack out all trash and leave no trace. There are, however, contained pit toilets (open air seating) provided at Monument Creek Camp.
Use of the area does require a permit, which is available from the Grand Canyon Backcountry Information Center. Group camping is available here with a maximum size of 11 people in a group each night. Additionally, there are two regular sites that allow six people per party, bringing the total capacity to 23 people per night. Reserve well in advance (up to four months) for the best chance of securing a permit on the date(s) you want. Permits include a flat, non-refundable fee of $10, plus $5 per person per night.
Mileages
To Monument Creek Camp
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From Hermit Trailhead: 9.3 miles
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From Tonto Trail Junction (via Hermit Trail): 2.3 miles
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From Bright Angel Trailhead (connecting with Tonto Trail): 15.5 miles
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From Tonto Trail Junction (via Bright Angel Trail at Indian Garden): 10.7 miles
From Monument Creek Camp
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To Granite Rapid on the Colorado River: 1.6 miles
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