Monument Valley's red sandstone formations rise from desert terrain at elevations between 5,200-6,000 feet, creating a stark landscape for cabin camping. The area experiences extreme temperature variations, with summer highs regularly exceeding 100°F and winter lows below freezing. Cabin accommodations near Oljato-Monument Valley remain popular year-round due to these conditions, allowing visitors to experience the iconic landscape without exposure to harsh elements.
What to do
Hiking with views: The Hummingbird Campground offers direct access to a scenic hiking trail with minimal difficulty. "About half a mile hike to the edge of monument valley for a beautiful view, but the campground itself also has nice views," notes Hans V. from Hummingbird Campground.
Cultural experiences: Reserve a traditional Navajo meal when staying at cabin facilities. "The lady host was very kind and cooked also a real Navajo Taco for dinner. I really recommend it!" says Alessandra S. at Hummingbird Campground. Similarly, visitors at Monument Valley KOA can access "additional services provided on the site such as jeep rentals, Navaho tours and horse rides."
Stargazing opportunities: Cabins provide a comfortable base for nighttime astronomical viewing. "We enjoyed the beautiful starry night!" reports Jeanne E. about their stay at Hummingbird Campground, where minimal light pollution creates exceptional viewing conditions.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Most cabin guests appreciate the well-maintained facilities. At Cottonwood RV Park, "Restrooms are spacious clean. Showers are very good," according to jan S. Monument Valley KOA also receives high marks as "the bathrooms and showers had very nice materials in them."
Convenience to attractions: Cabin locations provide strategic access to the main sites. "Good location near the monument valley entrance and the border of utah and Arizona. This place is great and has everything you need," explains Patrick P. about the KOA property.
Knowledgeable hosts: Local expertise enhances the cabin camping experience. At Cottonwood, "The host Nancy is very nice and great to work with. She had a lot of suggestions for things to do in the area," reports Randy S., highlighting the value of informed staff.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Prepare for spotty internet and cell service in cabin areas. JL at Cottonwood RV Park notes: "Worth noting, however that the work from the road prospects here aren't great - WiFi was a bit intermittent and cell reception was no better."
Seasonal considerations: Weather extremes affect cabin camping experiences. While most facilities remain open year-round, visitors should prepare accordingly. "This is a New KOA during our stay they had some working being done still," explains Daniel L., indicating that facilities continue to develop.
Environmental factors: The desert environment presents challenges for cabin guests. Larry K. observed that outdoor facilities can be affected as "bathrooms or shower which are all outside and with the wind blowing very dusty and cold."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Some cabin locations offer dedicated children's facilities. Kim G. at Monument Valley KOA mentions the "Playground with a view for the tots," providing entertainment for younger visitors while parents enjoy the scenery.
Educational opportunities: Families benefit from historical exhibits near cabin accommodations. Gouldings offers cultural experiences as Angela O. reports: "they show old west movies in their theater every night. There's a visitors center, museum restaurant and grocery store."
Wildlife awareness: Local animals may visit cabin areas. Jordan at Hummingbird Campground mentions: "There were several dogs around. They were so cute and one of them went on the hike with us," though noting that nighttime animal activity can disrupt sleep.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When seeking cabins as an alternative to RV sites, location matters. Leili K. advises: "If you get to the campgrounds early enough you can set up at the edge. This way you will have a clear view of Monument Valley with no other tents or distractions in the way."
Utility reliability: Full service hookups are available at some locations with cabin options. At Gouldings RV and Campground, Robert O. found "Pull through FHU everything worked as it should extremely clean campground. A little shade level gravel sites."
Seasonal amenities: Facility availability varies by season. Kate T. notes: "The indoor pool was closed in February. Also laundry facilities were under renovation," indicating winter visitors to Gouldings should verify which amenities will be accessible during their stay.
