Havasupai Falls in July: Prepare for Hiking & Camping in the Heat

July is a hot but enjoyable time to visit Havasupai Falls, provided you are prepared for the desert heat.

By July, you need to be ready for hiking and camping in temperatures that can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you stay hydrated, the warm days are perfect for swimming in Havasu Creek!

Another factor to consider is the unpredictable summer monsoon season. This annual summertime weather system brings storms to Arizona, which can be severe and cause flooding. The monsoon typically lasts from late June through September.

Key Info on Havasupai Falls

• You need a permit to visit the reservation.
• Camping permits are $455, per person (4 days/3 nights).
• The Havasupai Lodge is $2277 for 3 nights (for 4 people).
• The helicopter is unpredictable, so be prepared to hike 10 miles each way.
• There are no roads, so you can’t ride an ATV or a mule.
• You pay to have a mule haul your tent and backpacks in.

July Weather Overview

In July, expect daily highs around 100, with overnight lows in the 70s.  There’s plenty of shade, and Havasu Creek will help you cool off. But you cannot underestimate the impact the heat will have on your body.

On hot days, the rock walls of the canyon seem to absorb heat, and then radiate it at night on the campsites.

• Average High: 100°F
• Average Low: 72°F
• Rainfall: Monsoon season, so potentially brief, heavy rain storms.

Weather Warnings

I live in Phoenix, so I’m accustomed to the summer heat.

However, during a trip to Havasupai Falls in June, in weather similar to what you’ll find in July, I experienced heat exhaustion.

On the third day of our hike, despite drinking gallons of water, I nearly passed out in the tent before sunset. Hours later, I managed to get help to reach the creek, where I submerged myself for two hours to lower my body temperature. The next morning, I felt slightly better.

On our way out, we learned that many others had suffered even worse heat-related issues and required medical evacuation. I don’t want to scare you away from visiting in June, but I hope my experience encourages you to drink more water than you think you’ll need and to take breaks to cool down throughout your hike!

Daylight Hours

Daylight hours are lengthy in July, to around 14-15 hours of sunlight per day.

• Sunrise: : 5:30 AM
• Sunset: 8:15 PM

Even in the heat, the longer days will make hiking possible all the way to the Confluence with the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon.

Trail Conditions and Challenges

Storms likely won’t impact the trail conditions in July. You should find the route clearly marked and easy to follow.

The water sources along the lengthy canyon stretch of the trail are minimal. Be prepared to carry enough water to last you about 7 miles until you can fill up your filtered container with creek water.

Camping Along Havasu Creek in July

In July, you have to be prepared for warm nights while you camp along Havasu Creek.   

You’ll find campsites on both sides of a one-mile stretch of the creek, between Havasu and Mooney Falls.

Campground Conditions and Best Spots

In July and throughout the summer into September, there is always a small risk of flooding due to monsoon rainfall from the plateau above the canyon. Over the years, campers have had to evacuate to higher ground, leaving their campsites behind when the waters rise.

This is a photo of Beaver Falls during a flood in 2024.

My advice for the best camping spots in July remains consistent with any other time of year. When you arrive at the campground, head towards Mooney Falls and look for a campsite along the beautiful blue creek. As always, choose a site that is away from the vault toilets, as the odor can become particularly unpleasant during the summer.

Nighttime Temperatures and Sleeping Tips

Nighttime temperatures in July are warm, so it’s important to consider this when selecting a sleeping bag and tent. Many people opt to sleep in hammocks instead of tents during the summer at Havasupai Falls.

The next time I go camping in June or July, I might not even bring a sleeping bag. It might be more practical to bring a sheet to use over my sleeping pad instead of a sleeping bag.

Wildlife and Bugs to Watch For

I’ve never experienced any issues with bugs, flies, or mosquitoes, but I know that others have. For this reason, I usually carry a small bottle of insect repellent just in case.

When it comes to squirrels and other scavengers at the campsite, their presence can vary. Occasionally, you might find evidence of a mischievous rodent getting into someone’s food. Personally, I’ve always managed to keep our food secure in airtight bags and containers, but many people choose to bring rat sacks as an extra precaution.

As for wildlife, you’re more likely to encounter frogs and lizards near the creek, which is to be expected.

If you’re looking for an exciting wildlife encounter, you’re sure to see desert longhorn sheep on the trail between Mooney and Beaver Falls.