Camping near Window Rock, Arizona sits at an elevation of approximately 6,800 feet, creating a high desert climate with cooler temperatures than the lower elevations of Arizona. The landscape features dramatic rock formations and pine forests interspersed with desert scrub vegetation. Summer temperatures average 85°F during the day but can drop to 50°F at night, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: Several campgrounds offer direct access to hiking paths. At Quaking Aspen Campground, campers appreciate the trail system. "Amazing hiking and mtb'ing trails. And, a nice lake," notes Tommy B., who found the campground to be "The Best $5 campsite."
Horseback riding in Canyon de Chelly: Book a guided tour with local operators. "We road horses with Justin's Horses, and it is really close too," reports Ann M. about her stay at Cottonwood Campground. The campground provides "Clean campground with flush toilets very close to the visitor center."
Scenic driving routes: The area offers several routes through pine forests and along canyon rims. "The valley road cuts through green canyon bluffs and rolling hills with good tree coverage. Lots of fun and scenic driving. Spur trails are good 4x4 drives," explains Twan M. about Six Mile Canyon. The road remains "2wd friendly for a long way, with probably 10-15 camping sites/options along the way."
What campers like
Cool temperatures at higher elevations: The Zuni Mountains provide relief from summer heat. "The elevation at which the cg is at is 8000' makes for cool days and nic crisp cool nights, even in the summertime," shares Charles V. about his experience at Quaking Aspen Campground, adding that he "fell in love with the campground" because of "the big aspen trees, how remote and quiet it was."
Well-stocked camp stores: Some private campgrounds offer supplies and provisions. One camper at USA RV Park noted it has "maybe even the best camp store I have ever visited," adding that "Gallup is a super interesting place and could have easily spent way more time than we did."
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer ample room between sites. "Small campground with massive campsites," writes Chip about Quaking Aspen Campground. "This campground could easily squeeze double, if not triple, the sites out of these woods, but someone decided to let everyone breath a little here, and we should thank that someone."
What you should know
Road conditions can be challenging: Access to dispersed sites requires caution. At Turkey Springs, Timothy N. advises "The main road 162 was in great condition until it starts going uphill, then it was rutted out. Only a couple spots beyond this point. Road is closed from Dec 15 through March 31."
Seasonal closures are common: Many camping areas close during winter. Kenny R. notes about Turkey Springs: "Would be awesome during a dry time!" after finding it "kinda being a mudpit after the rain."
Cell service varies by location: Coverage depends on proximity to towns. At Turkey Springs, Timothy N. reports "TMobile access was mixed. Sometimes limited LTE, sometimes 5G," and notes that "The paved road is loud in the morning and evening with ranch/quarry traffic, but it is very quiet at night."
Temperature variations: Higher elevations can get significantly colder. "It is above 7k, so it does get colder at night than the local forecast for Gallup," warns Timothy N. about Turkey Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Pizza delivery options: Some campgrounds are close enough to town for food delivery. At USA RV Park, Nicole B. appreciated that "We were able to get pizza delivered to our RV site which was a big hit with the kids."
Pool access: Facilities with swimming options provide relief from heat. "They had all of the amenities I wanted, showers clean bathrooms, lots of pull through sites, and a pool. Just a mile off of I-40," reports Mike F. about USA RV Park.
Dog-friendly areas: Many campsites welcome pets with dedicated spaces. Chris H. mentions that USA RV Park has a "Big dog park for the puppers to do their business," making it "Perfect for an overnight stay along the route."
Cultural experiences: The region offers opportunities to learn about Navajo culture. At Spider Rock Campground, Howard Smith, the owner, is described as "very friendly and a wealth of information" by Francois T., who adds "There is a great hiking trail that starts at the campground and goes to the canyon."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Site conditions vary across campgrounds. At Red Rock Park & Campground, John M. found that the site "was clean with 50 amp power and water, it also had a small BBQ, picknick table and was fairly level."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer this service year-round. Susan R. notes that at USA RV Park, "Our site was mostly level so we used our small curved levelers on one side. The sites are VERY close together and many of the picnic tables seem to need new boards for seats."
RV size limitations: Some campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. At Spider Rock Campground, Bob & Ramona F. warn: "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."
Easy access options: Some sites are designed for convenient overnight stays. "A heavily used campground," is how Semi H. describes USA RV Park, noting it's "Easy to get to" though they "were there on a quite busy airport day/night. We don't use ear plugs and it was very noisy from the aircraft."
