Dispersed camping options near Mexican Hat, Utah range across elevations from 4,000 to 6,300 feet in this high desert region. This area sits at the edge of the Colorado Plateau where the San Juan River cuts deeply through ancient sandstone formations. Temperature extremes are common, with summer highs regularly exceeding 100°F and winter nights dropping below freezing.
What to do
Short hikes to petroglyph panels: Sand Island Recreation Area offers access to numerous rock art panels directly from the campground. "The campground has hundreds of petroglyphs, you can hear the wild donkeys and we saw wild horses on the river bank," notes David N. about Sand Island Recreation Area.
Dark sky stargazing: The area is perfect for night photography with minimal light pollution. At Goosenecks State Park Campground, "It is also a Dark Sky site and has amazing star watching. Picnic table, and fire ring at each site. Location has free wifi from state park," according to Jonathan B.
Sunrise views over buttes: The elevated position of Muley Point provides exceptional morning vistas. Melissa A. describes it as having "Huge payoff at the end with views of Valley of the Gods, Goosenecks State Park and Monument Valley. Sites are FCFS. We found a pretty level spot that was easy to back into. So quiet."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Many campers report having sites entirely to themselves, especially in Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed. "Another good stay here. Road is a bit rough coming in at either entrance--just take it slow. At the moment, there's porto-potties near each entry. Views are great all around," reports Meghan B.
Affordable rates: Sleeping Bear Campground offers better value than nearby alternatives. "We stayed one night $25, instead of $60 at others nearby. First come, first go. No water and a dixi as 'restroom'. Beautiful quiet place. Money gets collected in the evening," notes Ther.
Access to wildlife viewing: Opportunities to observe native wildlife are common in the area. At Hummingbird Campground, one reviewer found unexpected hiking companions: "They were so cute and one of them went on the hike with us," though Jordan warns that "Another dog came by in the middle of the night and they fought it out right next to (and on) our tent. Dogs made for a rough sleep."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads become impassable when wet. In Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed, "The roads are rutted and although I see plenty of passenger cars back here, my 25 ft travel trailer pulled by my F150 did all it could to pull thru the ruts, hills and hollows. Don't go off the main road without desert 4x4 capabilities," cautions Mike J.
Weather considerations: Strong winds are common at higher elevations. At Muley Point, campers experienced "Strong winds (33 mph gusts) when we were there. Rocked our van a bit but the views are worth it," according to Linda C.
Water availability: Most sites lack potable water sources. "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," Jeff V. notes about Valley of the Gods.
Tips for camping with families
Early arrival recommended: Prime spots fill quickly during peak season. "We got there around 7PM to avoid the heat of the day. Lots of spots and saw very few people, with only a couple groups driving by," Brian P. reports from Valley of the Gods Dispersed.
Cultural experiences: Hummingbird Campground offers authentic Navajo meals. "The lady host was very kind and cooked also a real Navajo Taco for dinner. I really recommend it!" shares Alessandra S.
Kid-friendly facilities: Some campgrounds offer amenities designed for children. Kim G. notes Monument Valley KOA has a "Playground with a view for the tots. Not a lot of shade but a few trees."
Tips for RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites require work to level larger rigs. At Mexican Hat Rock, Aaron V. advises: "There's one steep section but it seems somewhat maintained. Did the whole road without issue in a 24' 2WD Sprinter 3500XD fully loaded. Long vehicles or trailers may have issue with the 90* turn at the bottom of the steep section."
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited to established campgrounds. "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," Hyeson writes about Gouldings RV and Campground.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Mexican Hat: Most areas welcome pets but have specific limitations. "Each site has a picnic table with a small awning, somewhat protected from rain, other than blowing rain. The ground is nice compacted almost orange sand, free of most rocks," notes Maxine W., making Hummingbird Campground suitable for pet-friendly camping near Mexican Hat.
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