South Rim's primary campground has shaded and fairly well-dispersed sites set in ponderosa forest, 1 mile from the canyon rim. There are pay showers and laundry facilities, drinking water, toilets, grills and a small general store. No hookups. Pine Loop is a good option to avoid RVs. From December 1 through February 28, it is self-pay, first-come, first-served.
From March 1 to November 30, however, reservations are required; Mather does not hold any campsites for walk-ins during this time, and it does not have a wait list.