First time camping at the Grand canyon/Arizona

Hey guys so I'm staying at the Mather campground July 13th-15th, 3 nights. I know it's not secluded and "real camping" but it's my first time visiting Arizona. I just wanted to know if there is anything I should be aware of or the best spots for sight seeing and taking pictures. Also, if anyone else is going those dates I wouldn't mind meeting up and hanging out.


Me and my girlfriend are staying 3 nights at the Grand canyon then heading to new mexico and Texas to visit family and back home to cali.

 

I forgot to mention, how's the weather during july? Does it get cold at night? Does is rain a lot during this time of the year? Will I be fine with my tent on the ground?

 

Anyone?

 

From my visits to arizona in the summer it's a desert. It's going to be hot. And more hot. And it probably won't rain. Tent on the ground should be fine

 

its going to be hot hot hot. Very little chance of rain.
Never camped there, always hiked down and camped. You will love the view, some cool history at the tourist shops. Make sure and stop

 

Get some pics up for sure when you go!

 

Bring lots of water with you. As others have said much of Arizona tends to get hot during the summertime and dehydration is a definite concern. The south rim normally see's temperatures in the high 80's during July but if you check this week's weather forecast for Mather campground they are expecting a 90 degree temperature late this week. Where it'll get much, much hotter is down in the canyon itself. If you opt to hike down into the canyon expect temperatures that could exceed 100 degrees.

 

Sunrise and sunsets are best picture lighting.

Yes, afternoon showers in July do happen. Some with cloud to ground lightning.

Water and lots of sunscreen, brimmed hat. No it's not "cold" . Bring some rain gear just in case.

Az

 

Thanks everyone I appreciate the tips and for sure I will be uploading some pictures of my trip.

 

Taking off tomorrow morning

 

Have a great trip .
Weather looks pretty good!
http://m.weather.com/weather/tenday/Tusayan+AZ+USAZ0371:1:US

 

It's monsoon season so there's a chance of some afternoon storms which make fit the best sunsets and decrease chances of fire restrictions. But it won't be cold. If your planning on hiking take lots of water. A great but tough day hike is down the bright angel trail to Indian garden. It's 3 miles with a significant elevation change. Plan on 1.5 hours down and 3 -4 going up. There's drinkable water at Indian gardens. If you feel like a longer hike DO NOT go further down the canyon. It's too tough to go all the way down and back up in one day. There is an awesome hike, mostly flat, from Indian gardens to plateau point. It's 1.5 miles each way and has some of the best views in the canyon. If your going there plan to take a whole day, it's worth it. Watch out for the heat, drink a gallon of water a day and also watch for rattlers. I saw two in October there's lots more out in July.