Demotte
4.65314 reviewsHC 64 Box 65, Fredonia, AZ 86022, USA
Demotte
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$30 per night for both standard nonelectric and tent-only nonelectric sites during peak season (May 16–October 14). Rates do not include applicable taxes or reservation fees.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Kaibab National Forest, DeMotte Campground serves as your gateway to the magnificent Grand Canyon North Rim. This hidden gem offers 38 intimate single-family campsites, each thoughtfully designed to welcome everything from cozy tents to compact motorhomes. Known throughout the camping community for its pristine conditions and tranquil atmosphere, DeMotte has earned a stellar reputation thanks to its meticulously maintained grounds and the warm hospitality of its dedicated hosts who treat every visitor like family.
DeMotte offers multiple camping options including tent camping and RV accommodations, with facilities tailored for small motor homes and trailers. Group sites and cabin lodging are unavailable.
Historical SignificanceThis sacred landscape has witnessed centuries of human connection, from the ancestral peoples who first called these forests home to the pioneers who later traversed these ancient paths. The campground sits at the crossroads of Native American heritage and the Grand Canyon's epic geological narrative—a story written in stone over millions of years and still being told today through every sunset that paints the canyon walls.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at a breathtaking 8,800 feet above sea level, DeMotte offers a refreshing escape from desert heat, though wise campers pack warm layers for surprisingly crisp nights—even in July and August. Summer afternoons often bring dramatic thunderstorms that roll across the plateau, filling the air with the sweet scent of rain-soaked pine. The campground hibernates through winter months when deep snows transform the landscape into an inaccessible wonderland, making your summer and fall visits all the more precious.
ElevationAt nearly 9,000 feet, DeMotte Campground offers a true sky-island experience where the air is crisp, the stars shine with extraordinary brilliance, and panoramic vistas stretch endlessly across the forested plateau. This remarkable elevation creates a natural air conditioning system, offering cool relief during the day and the perfect excuse to gather around the campfire as evening temperatures dip into fleece-weather territory.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle rustling of towering spruce-fir and majestic Ponderosa pines that create a living cathedral around your campsite. This enchanted forest setting comes alive with wildlife encounters—from graceful mule deer browsing through camp at dawn to the chattering of the endemic tassel-eared Kaibab squirrel, found nowhere else on Earth. Bird enthusiasts delight in the symphony of mountain species while the aromatic pine-scented air and dappled sunlight create an atmosphere of pure wilderness magic.
Geological RegionDeMotte Campground sits atop the spectacular Colorado Plateau within the vast Kaibab National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty. This unique ecosystem supports dense forests of spruce-fir and Ponderosa pine that thrive in the high-altitude environment. The area serves as the exclusive home of the charismatic tassel-eared Kaibab squirrel, whose distinctive ear tufts and playful antics make it a favorite among wildlife watchers exploring this remarkable intersection of forest and canyon country.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but reviews do not mention other specific accessibility features.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with pull-through and back-in options. Some sites are noted as small or uneven.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some campers noted close proximity and lack of shade, while others appreciated good spacing and seclusion.
Total Campsites38 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Loop B for a quieter experience and potential shade. Site #19 is particularly noted for its excellent location.
Best CampsitesSite #19 and sites in Loop B are frequently recommended for their privacy and shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One camping unit per site allowed.
Groups
Group camping options are not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of loops A and B, with sites spaced moderately apart. Loop A has less shade compared to Loop B.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 16 to October 14. Closed for winter.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityThere are first-come-first-served sites available, but popularity varies; early arrival is recommended.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the day of arrival incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the reservation fee. Late cancellations (after midnight one day before scheduled arrival) also forfeit the first night's fee. No-show reservations incur a $20 fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides opportunities for camping, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is only 20-30 minutes away, offering additional recreational activities such as hiking and scenic drives.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible from the campground and nearby areas. Popular trails include the Arizona Trail and East Rim View Trail. Difficulty levels range from easy to moderate.Biking
Several nearby forest roads are suitable for biking. User reviews highlight enjoyable dirt road biking experiences.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer, bison, Kaibab squirrels, and birds. Early mornings are recommended for wildlife viewing.Cultural and Educational Programs
Camp hosts occasionally organize nature programs and ranger talks, particularly on weekends. Topics include local wildlife and forest ecology.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited as the campground is closed from mid-October to mid-May due to snow.Water Sports
Water sports are not applicable to this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood is sold on-site. Restrictions may apply during fire season.
- Quiet hours enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are frequent in the area, and campers must follow food storage regulations. High elevation may pose challenges for visitors unaccustomed to thinner air.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital is Kane County Hospital in Kanab, UT, approximately 40 miles away. Fredonia has basic emergency services 35 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to October 14.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site. No recycling facilities were mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNo major water bodies are nearby, but drinking water is available.
Common complaintsSome visitors have noted noise due to generator use and minimal shade in certain campsites. A few complaints about campsite leveling and proximity to the highway have been registered.
HostHosts are described as extremely friendly, accommodating, and efficient. They are proactive in maintaining cleanliness and providing assistance.
Campground Map
HC 64 Box 65, Fredonia, AZ 86022, USA
Driving directionsFrom Kanab, UT the facility is 40 miles (35 miles from Fredonia, AZ) south on U.S. Route 89A to AZ State Route 67, at Jacob Lake. Then south 25 miles on AZ State Route 67 to DeMotte campground. From Bitter Springs intersection of U.S. 89 and 89A. Take 89A north 55 miles to Jacob Lake. Then south 25 miles on AZ State Route 67 to DeMotte campground.
Accessible year-round except during winter when the road is closed. Roads to the campground are paved and travel conditions are generally safe, but caution is advised for high elevation travelers.Nearby places
Kanab, UT - 40 miles (approximately 1 hour)
Fredonia, AZ - 35 miles (approximately 45 minutes)
Jacob Lake, AZ - 25 miles (approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
A general store and gas station are located across the street from the campground entrance. For more extensive supplies, Jacob Lake Inn (25 miles away) offers food, fuel, and amenities.
Camper Reviews
4.7
314 reviews
Demotte is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
DeMotte Campground consistently earns high praise for its cleanliness, friendly hosts, and proximity to the Grand Canyon North Rim. The vault toilets are frequently highlighted as exceptionally clean, and the campground is described as peaceful with spacious sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 314 reviews
What Campers Love
Exceptional cleanliness of vault toilets, friendly and helpful camp hosts, proximity to the North Rim, availability of potable water, and the quiet natural setting. Firewood can be purchased on-site.
Based on 314 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some sites lack shade due to thinning trees. Campsites are occasionally described as too close together. Generators from RVs can disturb tent campers. Gravel tent pads are criticized for being hard...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a mallet for tent stakes due to hard ground. Early arrival is suggested for walk-up sites. Purchase firewood on-site and explore nearby dispersed camping for more privacy.
Based on 314 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer nights are cold due to high elevation, even in July and August. Campground opens mid-May and closes mid-October; snow may delay opening. Seasonal wildlife activity includes deer and bison...
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Camper Quotes
"The cleanest vault toilets I’ve ever seen." "Camp hosts treated us like family." "The night skies were magical." "Close to North Rim and surrounded by aspens and pines." "Firewood bundles sold by...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 017 in Loop A is frequently praised for spaciousness and cleanliness. Site 024 in Loop B is noted for proximity to restrooms and potable water. Site 035 in Loop B is recommended for RVs due to...
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Accessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair accessible. No additional accessibility features are mentioned in reviews.
Based on 314 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed. Reviewers note the campground's spacious layout is suitable for dogs.
Based on 314 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025