Menu
Destinations

The Ultimate Camping Guide for Monument Valley Explorers

Author: Mark Wade

Are you feeling a little bit adventurous and love the outdoors? Do you have enough of the city life and crave some fresh air? Then Monument Valley is the perfect destination for you!

Located in Utah, USA, this beautiful desert landscape is a popular spot for camping and hiking. With its iconic red rock formations and breathtaking views, it's no wonder why Monument Valley attracts thousands of visitors every year.

If you're set on exploring this magnificent place, here's the ultimate camping guide for Monument Valley explorers.

Monument Valley landscape with mesas and buttes, Utah.

Choosing a Campsite The View Campground

One of the best ways to experience Monument Valley is by camping outdoors. Several campsites are located inside the park, each offering a unique experience.

The View Campground

Located near the park entrance, this campground offers stunning views of the West and East Mitten Buttes. It has over 30 campsites equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms.

Goulding's Campground

If you're looking for a more luxurious camping experience, Goulding's Campground is the perfect choice. It offers RV and tent sites with electrical hookups, hot showers, and laundry facilities. Plus, it's located near Goulding's Trading Post where you can buy groceries and supplies.

Arrowhead Campground

For a more secluded camping experience, check out Arrowhead Campground. It's located at the base of a red rock cliff and offers primitive campsites with no amenities. However, you'll have access to hiking trails and stunning views of the valley.

Camping rules and regulations sign

Camping Rules and Regulations

Before you head out to Monument Valley, make sure to familiarize yourself with the camping rules and regulations. These are put in place to protect the environment and ensure a safe experience for all visitors.

1. Camp only in designated areas

Camping is only allowed in designated campsites within the park. Do not set up camp on trails, roads, or any other non-designated area.

2. Follow fire safety guidelines

If you plan on having a campfire, make sure to follow the fire safety guidelines provided by the park. Only use designated fire rings and never leave the fire unattended.

3. Pack out all trash

Help keep Monument Valley clean by packing out all your trash and disposing of it properly. This includes food waste, cigarette butts, and any other items you bring into the park.

4. Secure food and belongings

To prevent wildlife from getting into your campsite, make sure to properly store all food and garbage in airtight containers or bear-proof canisters.  Also, do not leave any valuables unattended.

Bryce Canyon National Park Landscape View

Exploring the Valley

Now that you've set up camp and familiarized yourself with the rules, it's time to explore Monument Valley! Here are some must-see spots and activities to add to your itinerary.

The Mitten Buttes

These iconic rock formations are a must-see when visiting Monument Valley. You can take a scenic drive along the 17-mile loop road or hike the Wildcat Trail which takes you up close to the Buttes.

John Ford's Point

Named after the famous director who filmed many Westerns in Monument Valley, this viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the valley. Don't forget your camera for some amazing photo opportunities!

The Wildcat Trail

For a more immersive experience, hike the 3.2-mile Wildcat Trail which takes you around the West Mitten Butte. This moderate trail offers stunning views of the valley and passes through areas with petroglyphs.

Stargazing

With little light pollution, Monument Valley is an ideal spot for stargazing. Set up camp early and enjoy a night under the stars, or join a stargazing tour for an even more educational experience.

These are just a few of the many activities and sites to explore in Monument Valley. Once you get there, you'll never run out of things to do and see.

Feeling excited to explore Monument Valley yet? Don't forget to pack all your camping essentials and you're ready for an unforgettable adventure in the wild!

magnifiercrossmenuchevron-down