Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Chinle, AZ
Cottonwood Campground accepts pets across its 93 sites situated just outside Canyon de Chelly National Monument. This established campground offers paved, mostly level sites for both tent and RV camping without hookups. The $20 per night fee (cash only) includes access to flush toilets and a dump station, though water availability varies seasonally. Sites include picnic tables and grills, with many featuring shade from mature cottonwood trees. Spider Rock Campground also welcomes pets, providing more amenities including drinking water, fire pits, showers, and trash facilities. Both locations maintain proximity to Canyon de Chelly's hiking trails and viewpoints. Stray dogs occasionally visit the campground areas but typically do not display aggressive behavior.
Canyon de Chelly's surrounding trails provide varied terrain for pet owners, though dogs must remain leashed throughout the monument. The campgrounds serve as convenient bases for accessing both North and South Rim exploration routes. Cottonwood Campground rarely reaches capacity even during peak seasons, allowing for reliable last-minute accommodations. Campers with pets should be aware of goathead thorns that can become embedded in paw pads - several visitors note these thorns make it difficult for dogs to spend much time outside. The Thunderbird Lodge sits across from Cottonwood Campground, offering a cafeteria and gift shop within walking distance. No alcohol or marijuana use is permitted as these campgrounds operate within Navajo Nation boundaries. Seasonal considerations include fall's colorful cottonwood foliage and summer's shade benefits.
