The Kayenta region sits at approximately 5,700 feet elevation in northeastern Arizona, creating distinct seasonal patterns for campers. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with minimal shade at most campgrounds, while winter nights often drop below freezing. Most campsites near Kayenta are situated on clay or sand terrain that can become difficult to navigate during monsoon season from July through September.
What to do
Hike Wildcat Trail: At The View Campground, visitors can access this 3.7-mile loop without additional transportation. "The Wildcat Trail (3.7 miles) is a great hike in the morning or evening when the sun isn't directly overhead. It took us a few hours at a slow pace to take plenty of pictures," notes Amy B.
Book native-guided tours: Many local campgrounds offer authentic cultural experiences. At Hummingbird Campground, campers can arrange guided excursions. "Beautiful drive into the area...a must see. They show old west movies in their theater every night. There's a visitors center, museum, restaurant and grocery store," shares Angela O.
Explore nearby monuments: Campsites serve as excellent bases for visiting lesser-known formations. "While here we plan to visit a number of scenic areas in Gooseneck SP, Mexican Hat Rock, Moki Dugway, Muley Point Overlook, Valley of the Gods and Monument Valley - lots to see around here," reports Ray & Terri F. from their stay at Valley's RV Park.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location creates exceptional night sky viewing. "We kept the tent fly off to enjoy the views all night," says Elle B. about Sleeping Bear Campground. "Luckily, a high, bright moon made it easy to see and get around, and provided one of the most majestic views of the rock formations I can imagine."
Cultural connections: Many sites offer authentic Navajo experiences. "The lady host was very kind and cooked also a real Navajo Taco for dinner. I really recommend it!" writes Alessandra S. about her stay at Hummingbird Campground.
Sunrise views: Early mornings provide optimal photography conditions. "Each site had a phenomenal view of the Mittens, and sunrise and sunset were stunning," reports Carly E. from Arrowhead Campground. "The camp sites are not great for just hanging around at, but there are other tours (jeep, horseback) that you could take advantage of."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most sites offer minimal facilities. "Simple campground for a stay for a night, full hookups, nothing to complain, no bathrooms or toilets at the ground," notes Ricardo S. about Valley's RV Park.
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns significantly impact camping comfort. "It's a big dirt field with only a few small trees. We took the site that had trees for shade," reports Stacie H. from Gouldings RV and Campground. "We visited Memorial Day Weekend. The campground was empty because it was HOT."
Wildlife awareness: Native animals frequent camping areas. "Be aware that there are rattle snakes and scorpions in the area. Staff warned us to close bathroom doors and tent doors behind you. We saw a snake in the morning, but it did not look like a rattlesnake," cautions Elle B.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "Arrived at East Gate about 3:30 pm, 10% of sites filled. Easy road with few must-slow-down-below-3-mph-because-of-rocks areas," reports Christopher Evans B. about Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom planning: Facility quality and accessibility vary widely between rv sites near Kayenta, Arizona. "Bathrooms are located next to one campsite but are easily in walking distance of all campsites," notes Reed H. about Valley of the Gods Dispersed Camping. "Avoid shower/bathroom from 8-10 as it was a long line out the door," advises Ben from The View Campground.
Educational opportunities: Many sites include cultural learning elements. "The campground area consists of RV sites, and the tent sites are hike-in only from the parking area," explains Carly E. "The Navajo guide provided information on area history and the specific lore around spires and buttes."
Wind protection: Strong gusts affect many camping areas around Kayenta. "When the wind is up, it howls through the area. I don't think you could find a campground within thirty miles that was protected from it," warns John A. from Arrowhead Campground. "We were able to position our van so that cooking, etc. wasn't an issue."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RV camping near Kayenta, position matters significantly. "We were in site 4 (a pull-through) for 4 nights in mid April. It's a good central location for exploring scenic areas in the vicinity if you need/want full hookups," advises Ray & Terri F.
Utility limitations: Many campgrounds near Kayenta offer partial or no hookups. "It's a parking lot with no hookups for RVs," reports Jon A. about The View Campground. "Just a parking lot with restrooms and showers. Better to stay in the cabins (which is probably their plan)."
Leveling challenges: The terrain requires preparation. "The surface is pretty flat and close enough to level that setting up your rig is easy," notes John A. "Accessible with a 28 ft RV, although care needs to be taken when entering the road off the main road as there is a steep gradient on the other side of the ramp. Campground is on red sand so care is needed with parking your RV."
