Can You Camp at Monument Valley?: A Complete Guide

AvatarByDale Richard Camping

Can You Camp at Monument Valley?

Standing tall and proud in the middle of the Navajo Nation, Monument Valley is a bucket-list destination for many travelers. With its towering sandstone buttes, deep canyons, and endless desert vistas, it’s easy to see why. But what many people don’t know is that you can also camp at Monument Valley.

Camping in Monument Valley is a truly unique experience. You’ll wake up to the sound of the wind rustling through the sagebrush and the smell of the juniper trees. You’ll watch the sun rise over the mesas and the stars come out at night. And you’ll have the chance to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world up close.

If you’re thinking about camping at Monument Valley, here’s what you need to know.

Can You Camp At Monument Valley? Yes There are 4 campgrounds in Monument Valley:
Camping in Monument Valley is a popular activity for visitors. The campgrounds are located within the park, and offer stunning views of the mesas and buttes.
  • The **Watchman Campground** is located near the Visitor Center, and offers 120 sites.
  • The **Wetherill Campground** is located near the East Entrance, and offers 100 sites.
  • The **Hovenweep Campground** is located near the West Entrance, and offers 50 sites.
  • The **John Ford Point Campground** is located near the southern end of the park, and offers 20 sites.

Can You Camp At Monument Valley?

Monument Valley is a popular tourist destination located in the Navajo Nation in northeastern Arizona. The park is home to towering sandstone buttes, mesas, and monoliths, and is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and photography.

Camping Regulations

There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re planning to camp in Monument Valley.

  • Where can you camp? There are two campgrounds in Monument Valley: the Navajo Tribal Park Campground and the Goulding’s Campground. The Navajo Tribal Park Campground is located within the park, while the Goulding’s Campground is located just outside the park. Both campgrounds offer a variety of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and water.
  • What are the camping fees? The camping fees at the Navajo Tribal Park Campground are $25 per night for a standard site and $35 per night for a premium site. The camping fees at the Goulding’s Campground are $30 per night for a standard site and $40 per night for a premium site.
  • What are the camping rules and regulations? The following are some of the camping rules and regulations in Monument Valley:
  • All campers must register at the visitor center before setting up camp.
  • Campfires are only allowed in designated fire pits.
  • Pets must be leashed at all times.
  • Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Camping Facilities

The Navajo Tribal Park Campground and the Goulding’s Campground both offer a variety of camping facilities, including:

  • Restrooms
  • Showers
  • Water
  • Fire pits
  • Picnic tables
  • Shade shelters
  • Wi-Fi

Other Amenities

In addition to the camping facilities, the Navajo Tribal Park Campground and the Goulding’s Campground also offer a variety of other amenities, including:

  • A general store
  • A restaurant
  • A gift shop
  • A gas station
  • A laundry facility
  • A playground

Camping in Monument Valley is a great way to experience the beauty of the Navajo Nation. There are a variety of camping options available, so you can find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Camping Weather

The weather in Monument Valley can vary greatly depending on the time of year you visit. The summers are hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures sometimes dropping below freezing. The best time to camp in Monument Valley is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the days are long.

Here is a more detailed breakdown of the weather in Monument Valley by month:

  • March: The weather in March is still chilly, with average highs of 50 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 25 degrees Fahrenheit. There is a chance of snow, but it is usually light and melts quickly.
  • April: The weather in April is warming up, with average highs of 60 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 35 degrees Fahrenheit. The days are getting longer, and there is less chance of snow.
  • May: The weather in May is warm and sunny, with average highs of 75 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 45 degrees Fahrenheit. The days are long and there is little chance of rain.
  • June: The weather in June is hot and dry, with average highs of 90 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The days are long and there is very little chance of rain.
  • July: The weather in July is the hottest of the year, with average highs of 100 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The days are long and there is very little chance of rain.
  • August: The weather in August is still hot and dry, with average highs of 95 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The days are long and there is very little chance of rain.
  • September: The weather in September is starting to cool down, with average highs of 85 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The days are still long, but there is a chance of rain.
  • October: The weather in October is cool and crisp, with average highs of 65 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 45 degrees Fahrenheit. The days are getting shorter, and there is a chance of rain or snow.
  • November: The weather in November is cold and snowy, with average highs of 45 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 25 degrees Fahrenheit. There is a chance of snow, and the days are short.
  • December: The weather in December is very cold and snowy, with average highs of 35 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 15 degrees Fahrenheit. There is a lot of snow, and the days are very short.

When packing for your camping trip to Monument Valley, be sure to bring clothes for all types of weather. You will need warm clothes for the winter, cool clothes for the summer, and rain gear in case of a storm. You should also bring a good pair of hiking boots, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Camping Safety

Camping in Monument Valley can be a safe and enjoyable experience, but there are a few safety risks that you should be aware of.

  • Wildlife: Monument Valley is home to a variety of wildlife, including coyotes, bobcats, and bears. It is important to be aware of these animals and take precautions to avoid them. Do not hike alone, and make sure to keep your food and trash in a safe place.
  • Weather: The weather in Monument Valley can change quickly, so it is important to be prepared for anything. Always check the weather forecast before you go camping, and be prepared for rain, snow, wind, or heat.
  • Fire: Fire is a serious risk in Monument Valley, especially during the dry summer months. Be sure to follow all fire regulations, and never leave a fire unattended.
  • Altitude sickness: Monument Valley is located at an elevation of over 5,000 feet, which can cause altitude sickness. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to descend to a lower elevation and seek medical attention.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable camping trip to Monument Valley.

Camping in Monument Valley is a great way to experience the beauty of the American Southwest. With its towering mesas, towering buttes, and stunning sandstone formations, Monument Valley is a truly unique and unforgettable place to visit. By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable camping trip to Monument Valley.

Can you camp at Monument Valley?

Yes, you can camp at Monument Valley. There are two campgrounds in the park: the Whispering Pines Campground and the Hovenweep Campground. Both campgrounds offer basic amenities such as restrooms, water, and fire pits.

What are the different types of camping available at Monument Valley?

There are two types of camping available at Monument Valley: backcountry camping and developed camping. Backcountry camping is allowed in designated areas of the park, but you must obtain a permit from the park ranger station. Developed camping is available at the Whispering Pines Campground and the Hovenweep Campground.

What are the best times to camp at Monument Valley?

The best times to camp at Monument Valley are during the spring and fall months. The weather is mild during these times, and the park is less crowded.

What are the things to consider when camping at Monument Valley?

There are a few things to consider when camping at Monument Valley. First, the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for all conditions. Second, the park is located at a high elevation, so it’s important to drink plenty of water. Third, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to keep your food and belongings secure.

What are the amenities available at the campgrounds?

The Whispering Pines Campground and the Hovenweep Campground both offer basic amenities such as restrooms, water, and fire pits. The Whispering Pines Campground also has a playground and a dump station.

How much does it cost to camp at Monument Valley?

The cost of camping at Monument Valley varies depending on the campground and the time of year. The current rates are as follows:

  • Whispering Pines Campground: $20 per night
  • Hovenweep Campground: $15 per night

How do I book a campsite at Monument Valley?

Campsites can be reserved online or by calling the park ranger station. The current reservation window is 6 months in advance.

What are the rules and regulations for camping at Monument Valley?

There are a few rules and regulations for camping at Monument Valley. These include:

  • All campers must have a valid permit.
  • Campfires must be contained in fire pits.
  • Pets must be on a leash at all times.
  • No motorized vehicles are allowed in the campgrounds.

Can I bring my own food and supplies to the campground?

Yes, you can bring your own food and supplies to the campground. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the park is located at a high elevation, so it’s important to pack plenty of food and water. Second, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, so it’s important to keep your food and belongings secure.

Are there any other resources available for camping at Monument Valley?

There are a few other resources available for camping at Monument Valley. These include:

  • The National Park Service website has a comprehensive guide to camping at Monument Valley.
  • The Monument Valley Visitor Center has a variety of maps and brochures on camping in the park.
  • The Monument Valley Tribal Park offers a variety of guided camping trips.

    Monument Valley is a truly unique and awe-inspiring place that is well worth a visit. Whether you choose to camp in the park or stay in one of the nearby towns, you are sure to have a memorable experience. Be sure to do your research and plan your trip accordingly, so you can make the most of your time in this special place.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.