Dispersed camping near Oljato-Monument Valley, Utah ranges in elevation from 4,000 to 6,300 feet, creating dramatic temperature shifts between day and night. The desert environment receives less than 10 inches of rainfall annually, concentrating mostly during late summer monsoon season. Many campsites offer unobstructed views of the iconic red sandstone buttes and spires that define this distinctive landscape.
What to do
Visit archaeological sites: Several campgrounds provide access to ancient Ancestral Puebloan ruins. The Butler Wash Dispersed - Bears Ears area connects campers with notable archaeological features. As Fred S. notes, "The ride on Lower Butler Wash Road to reach this site was no problem for our campervan. Crossed 2 dry washes; took it slow."
Night sky viewing: The remote location creates exceptional stargazing conditions. At Muley Point — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, campers can observe celestial objects with minimal light pollution. Melissa A. describes it as "Perfect dark sky area," while Paul J. emphasizes the isolation: "There aren't even lights at night!"
Off-road exploration: The network of unpaved roads provides numerous scenic driving routes. Jeff V. reports from Valley of the Gods Dispersed Camping: "The clay softens and becomes slick, packing around tires, and everything else. Plus even if your vehicle can handle the soft soils you'll wreck the road for everyone once the deep ruts dry out and harden."
What campers like
Isolation and solitude: Many campsites offer significant distance between neighbors. At Butler Wash Dispersed Camping, campers find "Many many sites and options for superb camping," according to Matt B., who adds that "The dirt road is well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles."
Geological features: Distinctive rock formations create natural landmarks. As Kathy B. observes about Dispersed Mexican Hat Camping, it's "19 miles south of Monument Valley- perfect location." The area takes its name from a distinctive rock formation, which Ethan R. describes as "that dang Mexican Hat Rock juxtaposed to the unforgiving sea of desert."
Wildlife encounters: The desert ecosystem supports various animal species. Ariel & John W. report: "Hummingbirds galore. Mule deer, coyotes. Amazing night sky." Brian P. from Valley of the Gods noticed: "Once the sun set a few bats came out for about 45 minutes then disappeared."
What you should know
Weather conditions: High winds frequently affect camping areas. At Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed, Michael G. describes "the wind is hellish," while Felix S. reports: "When we arrived it was howling wind and blowing sand. We worried the side of our van would be nothing but primer in the morning."
Land status confusion: Some camping areas have mixed ownership. Jacob B. notes that Mexican Hat Rock is "no longer free," with specific instructions from Aaron V.: "Once you go a little further and cross over the cattle grate on the road to the left at the fork you're in BLM land and the campsites are free."
Temperature extremes: Desert conditions create significant hot/cold variations. Chris mentions Valley of the Gods conditions: "As for the actual camping in the area, would be best to arrive after or near sundown seeing as it was in the 100's most of the afternoon and evening."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection criteria: Choose locations with natural barriers for safety. Jason T. recommends: "Most sites are right off the main road. Easily accessible by RVs and cars. Our site was off the main road. Don't venture off the main road without high clearance and perhaps 4 wheel drive."
Activity planning: Schedule outdoor activities during cooler periods. Christopher Evans B. suggests February visits to Valley of the Gods: "Arrived at East Gate about 3:30 pm, 10% of sites filled. Camped between Sitting Hen and Rooster Buttes, and saw nobody until dawn."
Supply preparation: Stock appropriate quantities of drinking water. Steve M. advises about camping at higher elevations: "Way up there where it's hard to breathe! Had to do things slowly and deliberately but a beautiful setting. No way to get to Bears Ears National Monument unless I had a 4x4."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility assessment: Evaluate road conditions before committing to remote routes. LeAnn K. describes Dispersed Mexican Hat Camping as having "Wonderful roads for dry camping. I have a 29ft class C. And free! There is a section that is privately owned when you first come in on the right the rest is free. Do not get it confused."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustment for comfortable parking. Trey S. notes that Mexican Hat camping is "Easy to get to, not very level. No hook ups but great boondocking spot."
Size restrictions: Larger vehicles face limited site options. Mike J. shares his Valley of the Gods experience: "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 dessert 4x4 capabilities."
