Dispersed equestrian camping near Monument Valley, Arizona offers opportunities for riders seeking open terrain at elevations ranging from 5,200 to 6,000 feet. The region experiences temperature fluctuations of up to 40°F between day and night, particularly during spring and fall seasons. Campsites typically sit on sandy desert soil with juniper trees providing limited natural shade in select locations.
What to do
Explore ancient petroglyphs: Visit Sand Island Recreation Area where you can view hundreds of petroglyphs within walking distance of camp. "The campground has hundreds of petroglyphs, you can hear the wild donkeys and we saw wild horses on the river bank," notes David N. from Sand Island Recreation Area.
Photograph sunrise landscapes: The Valley of the Gods provides exceptional morning photography conditions with minimal light pollution. According to Chris, "A absolutely spectacular place for FREE! Easy access with 2-wheel drive for the first .5 of the loop at least. Breathtaking view of the 7-sisters and plenty of flat ground for tents" at Valley of the Gods.
Hike nearby trails: Butler Wash Dispersed camping serves as a convenient base for accessing regional hiking routes. Fred S. reports the area has "Beautiful views all around. Very quiet & peaceful. Only 2 other vehicles drove down Butler Wash Rd. Ground cover & juniper provided some privacy."
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing conditions with minimal light pollution. Alexis W. from Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed notes, "Dope view of the milky way at night!" while Sally's G. appreciated "Luckily it was a clear night and we got to view the milky way."
Wildlife sightings: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Monument Valley KOA, Kayla M. shares, "Be warned - there's a very friendly wild dog that likes to say hello. At least while we were there. She friendly and just wants some company."
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention finding secluded spots despite the open terrain. Jason T. explains, "Most sites are right off the main road. Easily accessible by rv's and cars. Our site was off the main road. Don't venture off the main road without high clearance and perhaps 4 wheel drive."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Prepare for extreme temperature changes and strong winds. According to Chris, "would be best to arrive after or near sundown seeing as it was in the 100's most of the afternoon and evening. The afternoon was very windy and made it a challenge to set up but the wind died down in the evening."
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed camping areas require careful navigation. At Butler Wash Dispersed, Fred S. notes, "The ride on Lower Butler Wash Road to reach this site was no problem for our campervan. Crossed 2 dry washes; took it slow."
Ground conditions: The desert terrain presents challenges for securing tents. One camper warns, "The ground is also extremely dry and hard but with a mallet you can get the stake in and it will stick like concrete...We did lose a stake to the rock solid ground and it actually snapped the paracord handle."
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: Choose established campgrounds with basic amenities when traveling with children. Kim G. from Sleeping Bear Campground mentions, "Nice campground that isn't too busy. Great views of nearby mesas. Clean bathrooms. Playground with a view for the tots."
Water management: No water sources exist at dispersed sites, requiring careful planning. Paola P. warns about Sleeping Bear: "25 dollars per night, viewpoint is amazing, quiet. Cons: No shower, dirty toilets, no water, no trash bins."
Shade solutions: Minimal natural shade exists across most camping areas. Jason T. advises, "Bring shade as there are no trees except for a couple of spots by dry river beds. The trees do bring birds with them..."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Certain areas accommodate various RV sizes. Jennifer R. from Sleeping Bear Campground shares, "I absolutely love this primitive campground. The views are spectacular, it is quiet and secluded. I would highly recommend site 7 for the views. We were in a 33ft toy hauler and had no problems with the dirt road and room to pull thru."
Hookup availability: The Monument Valley KOA provides the most services for RV campers. Nita D. reports, "This facility is newly owned and very well updated by way of lavatories, showers and laundry facilities (immaculate). All the sites have full hookups and there are additional services provided on the site."
Overnight parking strategy: For those using camper vans or small trailers, position strategically for temperature management. Felix S. warns, "When we arrived it was howling wind and blowing sand. We worried the side of our van would be nothing but primer in the morning. Fortunately by the morning it was sunny and calm with stunning vistas."
