Equestrian camping near Montezuma Creek, Utah provides options for horseback riders seeking both developed and primitive sites. Located in the southeastern corner of Utah at approximately 4,600 feet elevation, this high desert region experiences temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night. Summer daytime temperatures often exceed 90°F, while winters bring freezing nights with occasional snow.
What to do
Rock art viewing: Sand Island Recreation Area features hundreds of petroglyphs within the campground. "The campground has hundreds of petroglyphs, you can hear the wild donkeys and we saw wild hordes on the river bank," notes David N., adding practical information about amenities: "water and Vault toilets. Two camp areas A &B. B is larger as are the sites."
Archaeological exploration: The area around Butler Wash Dispersed offers access to ancient ruins. "Found a great spot that was completely quiet and perfect for stargazing. No way to get to Bears Ears National Monument unless I had a 4x4 and I have a Subaru outback," reports Steve M., highlighting the need for appropriate vehicles when exploring beyond the campsites.
Wildlife observation: The high elevation meadows around CR 0083 attract diverse wildlife. "We watched two separate flocks of turkeys and a large head of deer with our morning coffee and breakfast," shares Aric O., describing the natural viewing opportunities available directly from camp.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The remote locations offer exceptional night sky viewing. "Absolutely zero noise, beautiful scenery and milkyway clear skies," reports Aric O. about CR 0083, while at Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed, Alexis W. notes the "Dope view of the milky way at night!"
Cultural experiences: The area provides opportunities to experience Navajo culture. "This facility is newly owned and very well updated by way of lavatories, showers and laundry facilities (immaculate). There are additional services provided on the site such as jeep rentals, Navaho tours and horse rides," reports Nita D. about Monument Valley KOA.
Water recreation: During warmer months, campers can enjoy the San Juan River. "There was a nice river and some petroglyphs a short walk away. Water fill and some picnic tables. Spots were of a reasonable size. There was a boat put in, and it seemed like many people were canoe camping," writes Danielle about Sand Island Recreation Area.
What you should know
Weather conditions: Be prepared for extreme temperature variations. "It was hot in July, but cools off at night. Constant breeze, no bugs. Bring shade as there are no trees except for a couple of spots by dry river beds," advises Jason T. about camping at Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed.
Road conditions: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. "If you can tho the few sites set up this way are even more remote and awesome! Don't venture off the main road without high clearance and perhaps 4 wheel drive," warns Jason T. about Valley of the Gods.
Seasonal availability: Availability of water affects camping conditions throughout the year. At Sleeping Bear Campground, Jennifer R. reports, "I absolutely love this primitive campground. The views are spectacular, it is quiet and secluded. (Some road noise, but it dies down later)." She notes it's "a dry camping spot" requiring you to bring your own water.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Plan morning activities around wildlife. At CR 0083, Jennifer R. reports seeing "probably 30 deer, multiple cows, a whole group of wild turkeys, and lots of different kinds of birds. Our dogs were thrilled to run around the large site and up and down the hill adjacent."
Cultural education: Incorporate learning about Native American heritage. At Monument Valley KOA, Nita D. mentions it's "located right across the road from some of the manor buttes in Monument Valley, right in the heart of Navaho Country," making it ideal for introducing children to indigenous cultures.
Swimming options: During summer months, the reservoir at McPhee Recreation Complex offers water recreation. "Lake was really low so swimming was hard to find," notes Liz C., suggesting you check water levels before promising swimming to children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose appropriate sites for your rig size. At Sleeping Bear Campground, Jennifer R. shares, "We were in a 33ft toy hauler and had no problems with the dirt road and room to pull thru. Dirt pads but fairly level."
Road navigation: Plan travel time to avoid dangerous conditions. At CR 0083, Jennifer R. cautions, "Just be very careful on the drive up as we encountered several deer jumping into our path for the full four miles up from town, one time dramatically enough that we had to slam on our brakes quite suddenly and very narrowly missed an accident. Would not recommend arriving after dark because of all the free roaming wildlife."
Hookup availability: Most dispersed sites lack services, but some established campgrounds offer partial hookups. At McPhee Recreation Complex, Bill S. explains, "The site has 30 amp electric service. It is adjacent to flush toilets. A few steps from the back of the site is a nice view of the reservoir. The site offers ample space for a tent in addition to the back-in paved pad that accommodated our 32 ft truck/trailer combination."
