Camping cabins near Shonto, Arizona provide access to Monument Valley's distinctive sandstone buttes in a high desert region with elevations ranging from 4,800 to 6,000 feet. The area experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations, with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Most cabin facilities remain open year-round, though winter access may require vehicles with good clearance due to unpaved roads.
What to do
Guided tours of Monument Valley: Local operators offer specialized tours with access to restricted areas not available to general visitors. "We didn't use their tour service, but Goulding's offer their own guided tour of MV. We would stay here again when we are in the area!" notes a visitor at Goulding's RV and Campground.
Stargazing from your campsite: Low light pollution makes the area ideal for night sky viewing between April and October. "This is a low light campground, so a star filled night sky not tainted with mercury vapor lights," reports a camper from Monument Valley KOA.
Morning hikes: Some campgrounds offer private trails accessible directly from the property. A reviewer at Hummingbird Campground shares, "They even have an amazing hike - we did it at sunrise and loved it. Soft sand for tents that made it super comfortable."
What campers like
Modern bathroom facilities: Most cabin sites offer recently renovated facilities with private options. According to one camper at Roam America Horseshoe Bend, "The bathhouses were great too. You get a full bathroom to yourself; a lockable room with shower, sink with large counter, toilet, shampoo/conditioner and plenty of space overall."
Cultural experiences: Several properties offer authentic Navajo dining experiences on request. "They made us a delicious Navajo taco dinner which you can request beforehand. We highly recommend this campground," mentions a visitor at Hummingbird Campground.
Swimming pools during summer months: Some properties maintain seasonal pools to combat the heat. "Clean pool to cool off in. 3 large modern units for bathrooms, showers (soaps, shampoo and conditioner provided) and washer/dryer," notes a guest at Roam America Horseshoe Bend.
What you should know
Limited shade and exposure: Most cabin sites have minimal tree coverage. A visitor at Antelope Hogan Bed and Breakfast mentions, "The property is exclusive and off the grid. Don't forget to look up at the night sky, beautiful star lite."
Seasonal availability issues: Facilities like pools and laundry may close during winter months. "The indoor pool was closed in February. Also laundry facilities were under renovation," reports a recent Goulding's RV and Campground visitor.
Road conditions: Access roads to some properties remain unpaved but passable for most vehicles. "The road to the campground is dirt but totally fine, even for a big RV," advises a Hummingbird Campground guest.
Campsite spacing: Many locations place cabins and sites close together with limited privacy. "Camping is rustic but very quiet and sites are very close with little privacy. Host is very nice and helpful," notes a camper from Hummingbird Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Dog policies: While most cabin sites accept pets, some have restrictions and roaming animals. One visitor at Hummingbird Campground warns, "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."
Entertainment options: Some properties offer additional activities beyond standard camping. "They show old west movies in their theater every night. There's a visitors center, museum restaurant and grocery store," shares a guest from Goulding's RV and Campground.
Grocery planning: Limited on-site provisioning means families should arrive prepared. "We paid $26 for a tent spot that our van was easily able to access," notes a visitor about accessibility and pricing at Goulding's.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV pads require adjustment equipment. A Roam America Horseshoe Bend visitor advises, "Note: many of the sites are sloping so be ready to level a bit."
Utility reliability: Most cabin sites with RV hookups maintain consistent services despite remote location. "We decided to stay here on a short notice, and found a space for our RV with full hook-ups. Price was decent for the amenities and service," reports a Goulding's RV and Campground guest.
Curb design considerations: Some newer facilities have design features requiring careful navigation. "The sites are up on curbs. We grounded out our hitch several times when pulling in or out," warns a Roam America Horseshoe Bend camper.
