Grand Canyon Camp and Explore - SBC and PDC

looking into Grand Canyon Watchtower in Grand Canyon Group with Arms on shoulers looking at canyon at overlook grand canyon sitting looking at canyon

Experience the Grand Canyon at its best, on the trail, along the rim, and during sunrise and sunset. This four-day, three-night camping trip is based at Mather Campground in Grand Canyon Village, with easy access to ranger programs, shuttle routes, and iconic viewpoints.

After a scenic drive to the South Rim and a dinner stop on the way, we’ll set up camp and settle in. Day 2 features our main adventure: a 12-mile round-trip hike to Plateau Point from the Bright Angel Trailhead, followed by dinner, s’mores, and stargazing at camp. On Day 3, we’ll ride the shuttle and walk the rim from Hopi Point to Pima Point, then end the day at Desert View Watchtower for sunset. On the final morning, we’ll enjoy breakfast at the lodge, pack up, take a last look at the canyon, and return to CSUSB (arrival around 9:00 PM), with an optional stop at the Visitor Center or a quick Flagstaff detour if time allows

Trip Cost
SRWC Member: $160
Faculty, Staff, Non Enrolled CSUSB Student, and Alumni Association: $190
Affiliate: $205
Sponsored Guest: $220

Sign-Up Deadline
May 18, 2026 @ 12pm

Pre-Trip Meeting
May 19, 2026 @ 6pm

Activity Level
2 – Active

Trip Departs From
CSUSB Student Recreation and Wellness Center at 8:00am

Itinerary
Day 1:
Meet at CSUSB, depart for Mather Campground with an approximate 6.5-hour drive. Stop for dinner along the way in Needles, CA, or Kingman, AZ. Arrive at the campground, set up camp, make dinner, and settle in for the night.

Day 2
After breakfast, head to Bright Angel Trailhead for a hike to Plateau Point (approx. 12 miles round trip). Enjoy lunch at the viewpoint, then return to camp for dinner, s’mores, stargazing, and a restful night.

Day 3
Have breakfast then take a shuttle to Hopi Point for a walk along scenic viewpoints, ending at Pima Point with lunch. Return to camp, enjoy an early dinner, then visit the Desert Watchtower to watch the sunset. Return to camp for the night.

Day 4
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge then return to pack up camp, and take a final look at the canyon. Optionally, visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center or detour to Flagstaff and sightseeing. Head back to CSUSB, stopping for dinner on the way, and arrive 9PM.

Packing List

Weather

Food
8 meals are included, starting with breakfast on day 2 (2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners).
3 meals are not included. (1 breakfast, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner). Bring money.

Hygiene and Comfort
We will be staying in reserved campsites. The campsites are within close proximity to flush toilets, drinking water and there are coin operated showers. You will have the option to share a tent with one or two people or sleep out under the cover of the stars. Light weight tents, warm synthetic sleeping bags, foam pads and ground tarps will be provided to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep. The ground consists of soft and hard soil.

Risk / Hazards / Safety

⚠️ Important Travel Advisory for Undocumented Students ⚠️

Cancellation Policy

How to Register

Registration Opens 3/21/26 at 8:00am