Camping options near Ganado, Arizona range from high desert sites at 6,000-foot elevation to lower-lying campsites along tributaries of the Little Colorado River. The region's weather can swing dramatically from summer daytime temperatures above a dry 90°F to below-freezing winter nights. Camping in traditional Navajo Nation territory requires understanding specific regulations regarding alcohol (typically prohibited), generator usage, and seasonal water availability.
What to do
Navajo cultural experience: At Spider Rock Campground, visitors can access unique hiking opportunities directly from the campsite. "There is a great hiking trail that starts at the campground and goes to the canyon," notes Francois T., who appreciated the campground's proximity to cultural sites.
Stargazing: Camp in Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area for exceptional night sky viewing with zero light pollution. "You can see the Milky Way (it was my first time seeing it). You get to live out fantasies of being part of the Apollo 11 mission," writes Mara F. about the backcountry camping experience.
Fishing: Wheatfields Lake Campground offers trout fishing opportunities during its operational season from May through October. One camper reported: "Went fishing took my 12 footer aluminum boat caught a good amount of fish," though notes that these are typically "small rainbow trout, stockers from the Navajo Hatchery."
What campers like
Shaded sites: Cottonwood Campground provides natural cooling from its namesake trees. "Well-spaced sites under gorgeous cottonwood trees in bright yellow fall foliage," reports Catherine S., who adds that the "ranger told me he's never seen the campground fill up."
Affordability: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the reasonable rates at most Navajo Nation campgrounds. Ann M. notes that Cottonwood Campground charges "$20/night for all spots" and remains "not very busy" even on holiday weekends like Memorial Day.
Community atmosphere: LunaGaia Nomadic Village offers a different camping experience with its focus on communal spaces. Jan P. describes it as having a "neat community vibe, off the beaten track, re-inventing community!" and appreciates the "gorgeous place, beautiful landscape (awesome sunsets and sunrises), very welcoming hosts."
What you should know
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds in the area offer minimal services. Shane S. says of LunaGaia Nomadic Village: "Janet is developing the area so it's not perfect yet but her hospitality more than makes up for it. The location is great for visiting the painted desert and petrified forest parks."
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. Callie B. mentions that LunaGaia Nomadic Village was "a little hard to find but Janet was so helpful," while access to Spider Rock involves "rougher terrain" according to multiple reviewers.
Stray dogs: Be prepared for canine visitors at several campgrounds. Catherine S. notes at Cottonwood Campground: "Stray dogs come around but were not aggressive," a common observation throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: USA RV Park in Gallup (70 miles from Ganado) offers family-oriented facilities like a pool. Bryson D. reports: "Clean showers, a nice heated pool very friendly staff," making it suitable for families wanting more amenities.
Food delivery options: Some campgrounds allow food delivery service, a convenient option for families. "We were able to get pizza delivered to our RV site which was a big hit with the kids," mentions Nicole B. about USA RV Park.
Cultural learning: Introduce children to Navajo cultural sites through nearby campgrounds. Jeremy A. recommends Petrified Forest National Park's backcountry as a place to "see the night sky stars, a very wary herd of pronghorn antelope, the Triassic Chinle Formation that gives the Painted Desert its name, Route 66, Pteroglyphs, Puebloan Civilization sites."
Tips from RVers
Campground limitations: Many rv parks near Ganado, Arizona have size restrictions. Bob & Ramona F. caution about Spider Rock: "We have a 28' 5th wheel and after looking at the potential spots, had to back our way out. There is no way to turn around. If camping here, I would have had to back my way into a spot."
Water supply planning: Fill your water tank before arriving at most Ganado area campgrounds. Laura M. advises about Cottonwood Campground: "Camp fee includes use of dump station and water fill, but heads up that the water is turned off for the winter. Dump station open year round."
GPS accuracy: Navigation systems may provide incorrect directions to rv parks in the Ganado, Arizona vicinity. Ed P. reports about LunaGaia: "We came at night and was not easy to navigate. Once we were led in, had a nice, peaceful, quiet stay." He notes this location is "primarily for small vehicles, tent, camping, van camping. At this time nothing much larger than 30 feet."
