Dispersed camping in the Oljato-Monument Valley area offers options from primitive to developed sites across public lands and private property. The region sits at approximately 5,200 feet elevation, where temperatures fluctuate dramatically between seasons, with summer highs reaching 100°F and winter lows dipping below freezing. Access roads to many sites become challenging after rainfall, with several requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Lake access activities: At Stanton Creek Primitive Campground, visitors can enjoy immediate water recreation. "Fishing, Kayaking, swimming, and other watersports available in Lake Powell right at your campsite," notes Shannon C., while another camper mentions "we were just steps from the warm water."
Wildlife observation: Multiple camping areas provide opportunities to observe native species. At Stanton Creek, one visitor reported, "We could hear coyotes howling all night, so be careful if you have smaller dogs with you and keep your trash out of reach. We saw lots of other wildlife, too! Herons, peregrines, and little lizards everywhere."
Bikepacking routes: Stanton Creek serves as an excellent destination for bikepacking enthusiasts. "We rode here from Upper Miley twist area on the Burr Trail. It was very windy, but tons of spots. Lots of clean bathrooms too. You can pretty easily find access to water as well," shares Christy M.
What campers like
Beach camping opportunities: The shoreline camping at Lake Powell provides unique experiences. Preston G. from Stanton Creek Primitive Campground shares, "We took our camper and found a spot on their dispersed camping area. The water was warm and clear. Kids had a blast on the beach and my brother was able to park the boat right on our beach."
Unobstructed views: The dispersed camping areas offer panoramic vistas of the landscape. At Picket Road BLM, Alfred H. notes the site has "A big rig friendly place with space for several cars... Stunning view."
Flexible campsite selection: Many areas allow campers to choose their own spot rather than being confined to designated sites. At Stanton Creek, one reviewer explains, "There are no designated campsites. Find a suitable spot on the lake and set up camp! The amount of available campsites changes year-to-year with changes in lake levels."
What you should know
Payment systems: Different campgrounds have varying payment requirements. At Stanton Creek, campers should know that "It costs $12 per night to camp here (you just pay with self serve envelopes)."
Road conditions: Access can be challenging depending on vehicle type and weather conditions. A visitor to Picket Road BLM warns, "The road get a little washed out the further you drive in. High clearance and 4x4 recommended especially when it's raining."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal or no amenities. At Stanton Creek, "Although portable toilets are available, you are required to have your own self-contained unit if you camp on the lake. There is no potable water available, so bring your own."
Tips for camping with families
Securing equipment: Weather conditions can change rapidly in the desert environment. Isabelle K. from Stanton Creek advises, "be sure to stake down your tent, the winds pick up here out of nowhere!"
Supply planning: Most primitive sites require complete self-sufficiency. Shannon C. mentions that "Supplies are available at the Marina, gas station, and boat store; however, if you don't want to pay Park-Service prices, take the 10-mile trip to the Off Shore Marina outside the National Recreation Area."
Weather timing: Seasonal planning significantly impacts comfort levels. One camper at Stanton Creek found that "The weather was perfect in late October, 70s in the day, 50s at night and not too many bugs."
Tips from RVers
Beach parking considerations: Some sites allow RVs direct lake access. At Stanton Creek, Laynie R. states, "This is a lovely area. Best place to go if you want to boat. There are a lot of spots you can go right off the beach. Very sandy, but worth it."
Arrival timing: Popular areas fill quickly during peak seasons. Isabelle K. recommends, "We planned a last minute trip to the lake over Memorial Day weekend and visited this campground so we could be right on the water. Thankfully, we arrived early on Friday morning and were able to fight the crowds and claim a campsite. By mid-day, we were surrounded by other campers on all sides."
Campsite spacing: Even in dispersed camping areas, proximity to others varies by location and timing. "Despite being a large campground and having plenty of sites, it is quite popular and you must arrive as early as possible to snag a good spot."
