6 Best Cabins at the Grand Canyon South Rim

If you’re seeking an authentic and immersive experience, think about lodging in one of the top cabins at the Grand Canyon South Rim. These cabins recall the early days of tourism when the initial explorers to the Grand Canyon sought shelter in these rustic dwellings. While hotels in the area offer modern amenities, the cabins provide a unique charm and connection to the park’s rich history.

While not always more cost-effective or readily available than hotels, the cabins highlighted here furnish an alternative kind of accommodation. In addition to their proximity to the abundant attractions at the Grand Canyon South Rim, they provide an intimate and cozy setting. Often surrounded by the natural beauty of the park, guests are front and center for the spectacular views and compelling landscapes symbolic of the national park.

As we delve into the top 6 lodging choices on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, I’ll provide key details about each housing option. For more insights, feel free to consult our comprehensive guide on tips for visiting the Grand Canyon.

1. Bright Angel Lodge, one of the best cabins at the Grand Canyon South Rim

Bright Angel Lodge is widely recognized as one of the highly rated hotels in the Grand Canyon. However, you can also find some of the top dwelling places within the Grand Canyon South Rim here, including two historical lodging units, which I’ll discuss shortly, as well as several lodging units located in multi-unit constructions that are separate from the main lodge building. These lodging units have a full bathroom or a 3⁄4 bathroom with a shower and can accommodate up to 2 or 3 guests, depending on whether you choose one of the standard lodging units or one with partial canyon views, which are slightly more spacious.

In both cases, your cozy cabin will include a queen-size bed, a TV, and a spinning fan attached to the ceiling. However, be cognizant of the fact that they do not have air conditioning. You also won`t find a full kitchen there but I don`t think you will mind since there is a small refrigerator where you can store some fresh items, and the complex boasts three eating establishments —The Arizona Room, the Bright Angel Restaurant, and Bright Angel Fountain—each providing a unique dining experience.

However, what seems to interest me most about this accommodation is that it offers services of the highest caliber and a location that is ideal, right on the rim. Conveniently situated a brief 4-minute walk from the renowned Bright Angel Trail, this lodge provides ready access to the heart of the canyon. You simply need to descend 4,478 feet! Yet, there is no need for concern, as there are many other appealing nearby attractions and breathtaking views steps away from your quarters. It is no surprise that this is my first recommendation if you are searching for lodges at the Grand Canyon South Rim.

2. Buckey’s Cabin, one of the oldest cabins in the Grand Canyon South Rim

Positioned on the edge of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, the Buckey O’Neill Cabin stands apart as one of the finest cabins on the Grand Canyon South Rim. It represents a living testament to the pioneering spirit that shaped the early days of the Village. The cabin was constructed in the 1890s by William “Buckey” O’Neill, a Rough Rider, author, judge, and a pivotal figure in the establishment of the Grand Canyon Railway. Later, Buckey’s Cabin was incorporated into the Bright Angel Lodge by architect Mary Colter to create a distinctive and cozy retreat.

The lodging offers superb perspectives of the canyon, a bedroom furnished with a king-sized mattress, a moderately proportioned yet clean bathroom including a bathtub and shower, and a sitting room with a fireplace, contributing a sense of warmth to the welcoming surroundings. It accommodates 2 individuals, but you can inquire about obtaining an extra bed (additional charge) or a Pack n Play (no fee) for a maximum of 3 guests.

While there is no air-conditioning or kitchen, there is a small refrigerator, and guests can enjoy numerous excellent dining spots at the Bright Angel complex.

The Buckey O’Neill Cabin is documented on the National Register of Historic Places. Later, it was incorporated into the Grand Canyon Village National Historic Landmark District, further cementing its historical importance. So, it’s no surprise that staying here feels like taking a step back in history. Just keep in mind that booking Buckey’s Cabin cannot be done online, so if you want to lodge in one of the most notable cabins in the Grand Canyon, you need to call the property straight to book well ahead.

3. Red Horse Cabin, a cabin rental at the Grand Canyon South Rim with a rich history

The cabin known as the Red Horse Cabin, located within the Bright Angel Lodge, stands out as one of the lodging options providing the finest accommodations on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Constructed in 1890 and painstakingly renovated, this standalone cabin offers a cozy haven for your adventures. Originally situated at the Red Horse Ranch, the building was relocated in 1902 to the head of Bright Angel Trail, considered one of the prime hiking routes near the South Rim

We remained here for two nights, and trust me, it was an amazing experience even without air conditioning! This charming lodge consists of a sitting space and a bedroom with a king-sized bed, accommodating up to three individuals when requesting an extra bed (extra cost) or one Pack n Play (no charge).

The Red Horse Cabin includes two restrooms equipped with claw-footed bathtubs, offering a comfortable spot to unwind. There is also a lovely fireplace for relaxation. Note that the cabin does not contain a full kitchen. However, a small refrigerator is provided, and several snack shops and eateries are located on the grounds to refuel. Guests may even purchase meals to enjoy in the cabin, which is furnished with a table and four chairs.

Similar to Buckey’s Cabin, Red Horse Cabin is part of Bright Angel Lodge, so reservations must be made directly with the cabin. While the prices may be on the higher end, Red Horse Cabin provides a unique blend of historical qualities and modern comforts, making it a worthwhile option for those seeking the ultimate Grand Canyon experience.

4. Hull Cabin, a secluded cabin in the Grand Canyon South Rim

Hull Cabin is the oldest historic building in the Grand Canyon South Rim area. If you want to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience staying in a historic cabin with no electricity and minimal contemporary conveniences, you should inspect it out.

It lies secluded in a forest meadow surrounded by ponderosa pine trees, merely a 10-minute drive from Desert View Drive down a secondary gravel road winding between Grandview Point and Moran Point. However, reaching the cabin does not necessitate a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle.

Constructed towards the end of the 1880s as a single-room home by the Hull family, the cabin is recorded in the National Register of Historic Places, so it stands as one of the most unusual cabins on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

This accommodates up to six individuals, with a sleeping area containing two sets of twin-sized stacked beds and a living space including a queen-sized inflatable couch. While a fully equipped kitchen is provided, remember that there is no electricity, and water must be transported to the location. A separate restroom building next to the cabin has a vault toilet and two shower stalls with solar water heating devices, but you need to bring your own water containers to be heated by the sun.

If choosing to remain in this remote location, don’t overlook preparing with provisions for food, bedding, towels, trash bags, warm apparel, dish soap, flashlights, and an axe for the outdoor fire pit, since none of these will be found in the area.

For activities, apart from the majestic canyon rim nearby which is not too far away, the Grandview Lookout Tower offers expansive 360° canyon views in every direction. Nearby Russell Tank is ideal for fishing, and Hull Tank is a popular location for wildlife viewing, including elk, mule deer, wild turkey, javelina, and numerous birds.

5. Grand Canyon Tiny Homes, the most affordable cabins in the Grand Canyon South Rim

Should the three earlier possibilities are currently reserved, or if you’re seeking relatively inexpensive cabins near the Grand Canyon South Rim, the Tiny Homes at Sage Creek Mobile Park may possibly be a fantastic choice. There are 30 models in total, but I specifically like the 076 Tiny Home and the 079 Tiny Home for big groups. They attribute three bedrooms, one toilet, and a wholly outfitted kitchen, so groups of up to 8 people can stay here without losing the allure of a wood cabin. My most loved part of this property is the front deck, where you can sit and appreciate the sundown or stars.

Couples even have the option of lodging in interconnected suites with private lavatories, such as accommodation 075A. They lack full kitchens but include smaller fridge, microwave and coffeemaker, with the nearby Grand Canyon Inn, Restaurant & Lounge available for meals.

While not within the bounds of Grand Canyon National Park, locations found in Valle are merely 24 miles from Grand Canyon Village and just a 35-minute drive away, thereby making them some of the top lodging options in close proximity to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

6. Dumplin Patch Bed & Breakfast, one of the best cabins near the Grand Canyon South Rim

The Dumplin Patch Bed & Breakfast is a customary B&B outside the Grand Canyon, situated only 30 minutes from the South Rim entrance. It offers many accommodation selections, like the Navajo suite, the Hopi room, the Mariposa room, and a rustic cabin known as The Shack.

The cozy Shack includes its own private bathroom with a tub and shower, a luxurious queen-sized bed, a small dining table, and a kitchenette with some basics like a coffee pot, a small refrigerator, and a microwave.

The private retreat is an ideal choice for couples seeking seclusion, yet it also provides some communal amenities like a fully equipped kitchen, a game room, a library, an outdoor fireplace, a picnic area, and a garden with patio seating – perfect for appreciating Arizona`s breathtaking sunsets and star gazing at night.

Each morning, the tempting aroma of a homemade, traditional American breakfast is available at no additional cost. Breakfast is provided in the main building, just a brief walk from The Shack. For those planning an early excursion to explore the Grand Canyon, a “to-go” breakfast option is available upon request, contributing to its reputation as one of the premier lodging choices near the Grand Canyon South Rim.

Additionally, there are two small eateries within walking distance, providing convenient dining options after a day full of adventure.

This concludes our suggestions for the best cabins to rent in the Grand Canyon`s South Rim. Here is a map highlighting the location of each cabin to help you plan your itinerary more efficiently.

In addition to excellent lodging options inside and near Grand Canyon Village, you may want to check out our guide on the top hotels in Tusayan, the nearest town to the South Rim. Hopefully, this will help you decide where to lodge in the Grand Canyon in case cabins inside the national park are completely booked, or your budget for your visit is limited.

If lodging is unavailable or if you prefer a more daring experience, think about camping within the Grand Canyon. The Mather Campground, as an example, stands apart as one of the better campsites found in a pine forest inside Grand Canyon Nationwide Park.

If you have any inquiries or wish to share your experiences while lodging at one of the cabins near the Grand Canyon South Rim, please feel free to post a comment below. I would gladly like to hear from you.

Enjoy your time at the Grand Canyon!