Monument Valley camping accommodations provide direct access to the sandstone formations standing 1,000 feet high across the Arizona-Utah border. Elevation ranges from 5,200 to 6,000 feet, creating cold winter nights but mild spring and fall temperatures. Campgrounds within tribal lands require permits while dispersed camping options exist on nearby BLM land with minimal facilities and often challenging access roads.
What to do
Hike the Wildcat Trail: Accessible from The View Campground, this 3.7-mile trail offers close encounters with the Mittens formations. "We took the site that had trees for shade. Each site had a picnic table and fire pit. The campground has a cute history and fun touristy things to check out," notes Stacie H. from Gouldings RV and Campground.
Try Navajo cuisine: Several campsites offer authentic meals prepared by local families. "The hosts mom makes delicious navajo fry bread for 18$ a plate. This place is a hidden gem among all the other places near monument valley," explains Amber from Arrowhead Campground.
Visit Mexican Hat rock formation: Located 19 miles south of Monument Valley, this unique balanced rock formation offers additional photo opportunities. "We were able to stay on the short pull through row & got a view to die for! Those with small class c, truck camper & tent sites got the front row, which is completely unobstructed," reports Cynthia K. at Monument Valley KOA.
Take a guided Jeep tour: Many campers recommend exploring backcountry areas with knowledgeable Navajo guides. "We've camped here several times, but never hang out at the campground. We mainly use it as a jumping point to explore all the other things this area has to offer. Definitely take a Jeep tour. We did a tour that included a dinner and Indian ceremony," advises Debi R.
What campers like
Star viewing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "Every night a spectacular sunset. Every morning a fabulous sunrise. This is a low light campground, so a star filled night sky not tainted with mercury vapor lights," explains Cynthia K. from Monument Valley KOA.
Cultural interactions: Many campers appreciate learning directly from Navajo families who own and operate campgrounds. "Jeremy, the host is very accommodating. His extended family has been on the land for two hundred years. If you need anything like a guided tour of the park or Navajo Tacos, he likely has a relative that can help you out," notes John A.
Affordability of primitive sites: Several campsites offer basic amenities at lower costs than the resort options. "We paid $26 for a tent spot that our van was easily able to access. For the 3 night stay Under $120 it was perfect, which included our grass site for two tent's a fire ring with grill insert and a picnic table," shares Daniel L.
Shower facilities: Clean, accessible showers are frequently mentioned as a valued amenity. "The bath house looked brand new. Very clean. New laundry room too. Very nice, courteous staff," reports Cynthia K.
What you should know
Temperature extremes: Desert conditions create significant day-to-night temperature swings. "We visited Memorial Day Weekend. The campground was empty because it was HOT. The campground is a basic dirt field with only a few small trees," explains Stacie H.
Wind considerations: Exposed campsites can experience strong winds with blowing sand. "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. That said, the sand blows through Arrowhead pretty severely," warns John A.
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful navigation and become impassable in wet conditions. "The road to the campground is dirt but totally fine, even for a big RV," reports Phil from Hummingbird Campground.
Limited water access: Most dispersed camping requires bringing all water supplies. "It's a breathtakingly beautiful spot with a fair amount of simple pull offs for camping. Unless it's raining or just finished there won't be any water," advises Jeff V. about Valley of the Gods Dispersed Camping.
Tips for camping with families
Consider campgrounds with indoor facilities: Some locations offer indoor amenities for cooling off during hot days. "The indoor pool was closed in February. Also laundry facilities were under renovation. All in all great if you need a hookup, but not a lot of privacy," reports Kate T.
Wildlife awareness: Encounters with local wildlife are common at many campsites. "Hummingbirds galore. Mule deer, coyotes. Amazing night sky. No cell service," shares Ariel & John W. about their stay at Dispersed Mexican Hat Camping.
Bathroom access: Toilet facilities vary widely between established and dispersed sites. "People were great. Did not use the bathrooms or shower which are all outside and with the wind blowing very dusty and cold. Had a great hiking trail that takes about 15 minutes to hike up," notes Larry K.
Dog considerations: Several campsites allow pets, but encounters with free-roaming dogs can occur. "There were several dogs around. They were so cute and one of them went on the hike with us. Only down side was the dog was constantly trying to get into our tent- even jumping at the side of it," cautions Jordan.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most locations offer minimal or no hookups for RVs. "Just a parking lot with restrooms and showers. Unbelievable place but not from the parking lot/campground," advises Elsa C. about The View Campground.
Site spacing concerns: RV sites at most established campgrounds are closely positioned. "The RV sites are basically just a slotted parking lot with a picnic table each. No hookups of any kind," reports Ben about his stay at The View Campground.
Access road considerations: Many campgrounds require navigating unpaved roads. "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," warns Lauren S.
Generator restrictions: Several campgrounds near Monument Valley prohibit generators, making battery management important. "This KOA is located right across the road from some of the manor buttes in Monument Valley, right in the heart of Navaho Country. All the sites have full hookups," explains Nita D.
