Dispersed camping options near Oljato-Monument Valley exist beyond the established RV parks. The area sits at approximately 5,200 feet elevation, with summer temperatures often reaching above 100°F during July and August. Winter nights frequently drop below freezing, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures with occasional strong winds that can create challenging camping conditions.
What to do
Hiking at sunrise: Take the Wildcat Trail from The View Campground for early morning views with fewer crowds. "The Wildcat Trail (3.7 miles) is a great hike in the morning or evening when the sun isn't directly overhead. It took us a few hours at a slow pace to take plenty of pictures," notes Amy B.
Jeep tours: Book through local outfitters for access to restricted areas. "We took the three hour jeep tour with Majestic Adventures and included a guide who shared generations of stories based on Navajo culture. She played a flute under a caved dome and took us to a traditional Hogan to learn about living in MV," reports a camper.
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies provide exceptional viewing conditions. "Camping just in sleeping bags and on pads directly on the rocks was a treat under the cloudless starry skies," writes Isabelle K. from Bullfrog RV & Campground.
Horseback riding: Several local stables offer guided rides through the valley. "The two hour horseback tour was with the Dinah Riding Stable between point 4-5 on the scenic drive. The Navajo guide provided information on area history and the specific lore around spires and buttes."
What campers like
Dramatic views: Most campgrounds offer views of the iconic formations. "The tent sites are wild and have by far the best view even over the cabins. They are right in the valley but not super flat so be aware of that," writes Ben about his stay at The View Campground.
Cultural experiences: Many campsites provide access to Navajo cultural events. At Hummingbird Campground, guests appreciate authentic food: "They made us a delicious Navajo taco dinner which you can request beforehand. We highly recommend this campground," says Jeanne E.
Quieter alternatives: For those seeking solitude, dispersed camping provides escape from crowds. "We were one of only two houseboats in the entire bay, which made us feel like we had the place to ourselves!" reports Brendan A. about camping at Bullfrog.
Dark night skies: Minimal light pollution creates stellar stargazing opportunities. "Once the moon set that night, the stars were amazing on a beautiful clear desert night," shares Brian P. from Valley of the Gods Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many campgrounds have minimal amenities. "No shade whatsoever, but good views of the marina. Save your money for the big campground on the road and you will have a much better experience," advises Mike B. about camping at Bullfrog.
Weather preparedness: Conditions can change rapidly, requiring appropriate gear. "The weather can change quite rapidly at Powell so proper precautions and gear should be taken in preparation for large storms or cold winds."
Reservation timing: Peak seasons require advance booking. At Cottonwood RV Park, a camper notes: "We decided to stay here on short notice, and found a space for our RV with full hook-ups. Price was decent for the amenities and service."
Road conditions: Some access roads require careful navigation. "The road to the campground is dirt but totally fine, even for a big RV," reports Phil about Hummingbird Campground. For Valley of the Gods: "Don't push your luck if it has rained recently, as the clay softens and becomes slick, packing around tires, and everything else."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer child-friendly facilities. "They were also putting together the kids playground, I plan to come back next year when hopefully it's complete," mentions Daniel L. about Monument Valley KOA.
Indoor activities: Look for campgrounds with alternative options during extreme weather. "They show old west movies in their theater every night. There's a visitors center, museum, restaurant and grocery store," notes Angela O. about Gouldings RV and Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for possible encounters. "Staff warned us to close bathroom doors and tent doors behind you. We saw a snake in the morning, but it did not look like a rattlesnake," reports Elle B.
Swimming options: Some campgrounds offer pools during hot months. "The indoor pool was closed in February. Also laundry facilities were under renovation," notes Kate T. about facilities at Gouldings.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites with shade when possible. "We took the site that had trees for shade. Each site had a picnic table and fire pit," shares Stacie H. about Gouldings.
Connectivity challenges: Be prepared for limited internet access. "You should not rely on their wireless. We didn't need it, but did try to connect, and it just never worked. Also to note the network is 3G, so if you can get a data connection, it's very slow," advises Rebecca F.
Leveling requirements: Many sites require minimal adjustment. "Pull through FHU everything worked as it should extremely clean campground. A little shade level gravel sites. Would absolutely stay here again," reports Robert O.
Spacing awareness: During peak season, expect close quarters at RV parks. "The RV spots are basically just a slotted parking lot with a picnic table each. No hookups of any kind," notes Ben from The View Campground.
