Dispersed camping options surround Montezuma Creek, Utah, with primitive tent campsites available in multiple directions. Most sites exist on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) property, where the standard 14-day stay limit applies. Campsites range from river-adjacent locations to higher elevation mountain sites that provide relief from summer desert temperatures, with elevations varying from approximately 4,500 to over 8,700 feet.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Monticello Lake, campers can access a 5-acre lake stocked with Rainbow and Tiger Trout by the Utah Department of Wildlife Resources. One visitor noted it was "an awesome site above the heat of the valleys," though "several fishers" frequent the area.
Archaeological exploration: Sand Canyon Dispersed Camping provides access to nearby archaeological sites. A visitor mentioned, "Our scout troop camped here last weekend. We saw no one! Plenty of existing fire rings. Some firewood around. Limitless space!" The location serves as a base for exploring Canyons of the Ancients National Monument.
Canyon hiking: Canyons of the Ancients, Sand Canyon offers trails for hiking among Pueblo ruins. One camper reported, "Nearby there are trails for horses and such. Ancient canyons monument trails are nearby. We did a 13 mile hike of Pueblo ruins."
What campers like
Solitude: Cannonball Mesa offers seclusion for tent campers seeking isolation. A camper described it as a "Very remote area. Beautiful night sky. and peace. The entrance is a gate in a private land, drive about 1 mile to BLM land, mostly dirt roads."
Canyon views: Multiple camping spots at Sand Canyon provide scenic vistas. A camper shared, "Plenty of camp spots right on the edge with an incredible view. Up there with one of the coolest spots I've ever stayed at."
Night skies: Picket Road BLM provides excellent stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. A visitor described it as "Quiet with view" and noted it has a "Stunning view" despite access challenges.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to most tent campsites requires appropriate vehicles. At Sand Canyon, a reviewer warned, "When coming from the north, turn left at the sign for canyons of the ancient national monument. The road is ROUGH."
Wind exposure: Mexican Hat Rocks Dry Camping and other canyon-edge sites experience strong winds. At Canyons of the Ancients, a camper advised, "It was VERY windy the night we stayed, so tuck back into the bushes with your tent for some protection."
Water access: No potable water exists at dispersed campsites near Montezuma Creek. Pack in all drinking water, especially during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. At Mexican Hat Rocks, a camper noted there were spots "along the river, but lots of bushwhacking to get to it so I wouldn't call it a river spot."
Site development: Monticello Lake typifies the minimal development at tent campsites. A reviewer described, "Sites are small, rough and not good for trailers imo" and noted "No picnic tables, no fire-rings, no dumpsters, no potable water" but did mention "a single vault toilet is by hwy pull off is present."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites with natural boundaries for children. At Canyons of the Ancients, campers can find spots "kind of in a canyon" that provide natural containment for young explorers.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate archaeology education when camping near ruins. One visitor mentioned looking for arrowheads: "My partner and I looked for arrowheads all over. I think he found a clue!"
Weather preparation: Sand Canyon Dispersed Camping has terrain that can present hazards. A visitor cautioned, "High desert scrub and rocky terrain. Might flood if it rained heavily," suggesting families should monitor weather forecasts.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed tent campsites near Montezuma Creek cannot accommodate larger vehicles. At Mexican Hat Rocks, a camper advised, "I wouldn't recommend RV or Campers beyond the paved spot due to dirt roads and very windy/narrow path to get down there."
Road clearance: High-clearance vehicles prove essential for accessing many tent campsites. A visitor to Picket Road BLM noted, "High clearance and 4x4 recommended especially when it's raining."
Parking limitations: Careful site selection ensures vehicles don't become stuck. At Canyons of the Ancients, one camper driving a "Nissan Rogue we only wanted to go the the first spot on the road, it was very bumpy and rocky."
