Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Camping Guide

Introduction: Monument Valley Camping

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, known by the Navajo people as Tse’Bii’Ndzisgaii (Valley of the Rocks), is arguably the most recognizable landscape of the American West. Straddling the Arizona-Utah border, this iconic valley is an immense expanse of desert floor punctuated by towering sandstone buttes and mesas that rise dramatically, some reaching heights of 400 to 1,000 feet. The park is managed by the Navajo Nation and offers visitors a profound cultural and geological experience.

Choosing to camp here is far more than just pitching a tent; it is a truly unique experience that connects you directly with the vast, sacred land.

Camping in Monument Valley is unparalleled because it grants you:

• Front-Row Seats to the Icons: Campgrounds are often situated on the valley rim, offering a breathtaking, in-your-face view of the famous Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte—a vista normally only appreciated from the main visitor overlook.
• The Magic of Desert Light: You get to witness the incredible spectacle of the desert coming alive as the low-angle sun at sunrise and sunset bathes the crimson rock formations in fiery, changing colors, a show few day-trippers ever see.
• A Cultural Immersion: Camping within the Navajo Tribal Park means you are staying on sacred land, offering a deeper sense of respect and connection to the Navajo culture that has inhabited this land for centuries.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Camping

Camping is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the legendary landscape of Monument Valley. Unlike a brief stop for a photo, spending the night here offers a transformative experience that captures the true, raw majesty of the American Southwest.

Why Camp in Monument Valley?

1. Stunning Red Rock Formations and Iconic Views

Camping provides access to the valley during its most beautiful and dramatic hours, delivering iconic photography opportunities few tourists get to witness.

• Sunrise and Sunset Spectacles: Campgrounds, particularly The View Campground within the park, are often positioned high on the rim, giving you a direct, unobstructed view of the famous East and West Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte. At dawn and dusk, the sun’s low angle ignites the iron-rich sandstone, transforming the landscape into a canvas of fiery reds, oranges, and deep crimsons.
• A Room with a View: While the nearby hotel offers grand views, tent and RV sites often boast an equally spectacular, if not closer, vantage point of the colossal rock formations. You literally wake up with the legendary landscape directly outside your tent flap.

2. Authentic Navajo Cultural Experience

Monument Valley is a Navajo Tribal Park, not a U.S. National Park, which means a visit here is an opportunity to directly engage with the local culture and heritage.

• Overnight Hogan Stays: For the deepest immersion, some local Navajo-owned tours offer the chance to stay overnight in a traditional Hogan—the primary, sacred dwelling of the Navajo people. This experience may include a freshly cooked Navajo meal, traditional storytelling, and cultural entertainment under the stars, guided by a local family.
• Guided Backcountry Access: Staying overnight positions you perfectly to book a guided Jeep or horseback tour with a certified Navajo guide. These tours are essential for accessing the restricted backcountry areas of the park, allowing you to see hidden arches, ancestral ruins, and learn about the land’s history, spirituality, and geology directly from those who call it home.

3. Stargazing Opportunities

The remote location of Monument Valley means it has some of the darkest night skies in the contiguous United States, making it a prime destination for astronomy enthusiasts.

• Zero Light Pollution: Far removed from any major cities, the lack of light pollution provides a clear, unadulterated view of the celestial sphere. The Milky Way is often visible to the naked eye, stretched across the sky above the silhouetted buttes.
• Night Sky Photography: Campers have the unique chance to capture incredible long-exposure photographs of the star trails and constellations against the backdrop of the massive monoliths. Some local guides even offer specific stargazing or moonlight tours that incorporate Navajo constellations and cultural tales about the stars.

Types of Camping Options Available

Monument Valley offers a range of camping experiences, from primitive tent sites with unparalleled views to full-hookup RV parks just outside the park boundary.

Tent Camping

Monument Valley is a premier location for tent camping, with options available both inside and immediately outside the Tribal Park.

• The View Campground (In-Park): This is the most sought-after option for tent campers. It offers spectacular, cliff-side Wilderness Camp Sites that provide the same awe-inspiring views as the nearby hotel and cabins.
  • Features: Basic tent sites with picnic tables and fire pits (check for fire restrictions). Campers have access to modern restroom and shower facilities.
  • Pro Tip: Sites are limited and are often the first to book up due to the unbeatable location and view of the Mittens.
• Navajo-Owned Campsites: Several smaller, local-run campgrounds (like Arrowhead or FireTree Camping) are located just outside the park entrance, offering a more secluded experience and often including basic facilities and opportunities to buy authentic Navajo food.

RV Camping

RV travelers have excellent choices for a comfortable and well-equipped stay, though the most amenity-rich parks are just outside the Tribal Park’s immediate entrance.

• The View Campground (In-Park – Dry Camping): This campground does offer sites for small RVs, but they are dry sites with no hookups (water, electric, or sewer). The maximum RV length may be restricted, so confirm dimensions when booking.
• Goulding’s RV & Campground (Full Hookups): Located a few miles from the Tribal Park entrance, Goulding’s offers full hookups (water, sewer, 30/50 amp electric) and a host of amenities including a pool, museum, store, and shuttle service. This is the go-to choice for large RVs and those prioritizing comfort.
• Monument Valley KOA Journey (Full Hookups): Located a short distance away, this campground also provides full-service amenities in a setting known for its dark skies and scenic views.

Backcountry / Primitive Camping

It is critical to note that nearly all backcountry and dispersed camping is strictly prohibited on the Navajo Nation lands, including the Tribal Park, without an official permit.

• Designated Primitive Camping: The only authorized primitive camping is at The View Campground Wilderness Sites (mentioned above). True dispersed camping outside of this designated area is illegal and considered trespassing on tribal land.
• Permit Requirements: If you are seeking a guided experience that involves primitive camping in the backcountry (like an overnight Hogan stay or a multi-day guided trip), the tour operator is responsible for securing the necessary Backcountry Permit from the Navajo Parks & Recreation Department.
• Rules and Restrictions:
  • Dispersed Camping: NOT permitted on the Navajo Nation.
  • Fires: Open ground fires are generally prohibited. Only charcoal fires in provided grills or propane/gas stoves are permitted (always check for current fire restrictions).
  • Leave No Trace: You must pack out all trash, and consumption or possession of alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited on the Navajo Nation.

Tent Camping

Monument Valley offers a range of tent camping experiences, from primitive sites with world-class views to fully-serviced private campgrounds just outside the park boundary.

Campgrounds Available

• The View Campground (Inside Tribal Park): This is the premier location for tent camping, offering a direct view of the Mittens and other iconic buttes. These are designated “Wilderness Camp Sites” located on the cliff-side rim. Reservations are highly recommended.
• Goulding’s RV & Campground (Outside Park): Located near the Tribal Park entrance, Goulding’s offers dedicated tent sites as part of its full-service campground complex.
• Monument Valley KOA Journey (Outside Park): Provides standard tent sites with access to KOA amenities, including showers and laundry.
• Navajo-Owned Campsites: Several smaller, local-run operations (e.g., Arrowhead Campground, Hummingbird Campsite, FireTree Camping) are located on Navajo land just outside the park. These often offer a more secluded and authentic experience.

Facilities Provided

Best Spots for Tents

1. The View Campground (Wilderness Sites): Unquestionably the best spot for views. These cliff-side sites offer a breathtaking, unobstructed vista of the West and East Mittens. They provide a sunrise view that few other locations can match.
2. Arrowhead Campground: A top choice for a secluded experience with panoramic views, especially of sunsets, and close proximity to the Tribal Park entrance. This is a popular spot for stargazing due to its distance from highway lights.
3. Rent A Tent Monument Valley: This unique option offers glamping, providing a fully set-up canvas tent with a bed and linens, combining the comfort of a hotel with the experience of camping under the stars.

RV Camping

RV camping in the Monument Valley area offers a mix of dry camping with unbeatable views and full-hookup sites with resort-style amenities just outside the Navajo Tribal Park boundary.

RV-Friendly Campgrounds

Hookups and Amenities

• Full Hookups: If you require water, sewer, and electric connections, your best options are Goulding’s RV Park and Monument Valley KOA Journey.
• Power: Both Goulding’s and KOA offer 50-amp service, which is essential for running air conditioning and multiple appliances in larger RVs.
• Facilities Access: Guests at Goulding’s receive access to the full resort amenities, including the indoor pool, gift shop, restaurant, and museum.
• Dump Stations: Full-service campgrounds like Goulding’s and KOA will have dump stations. The View Campground does NOT have a dump station or hookups.
• Wi-Fi/Cell Service: Wi-Fi is often available at the full-service parks (Goulding’s/KOA), but can be limited. Cell service (particularly Verizon) is generally decent near the Visitor Center area.

Tips for Large Vehicles

• The View Campground Restriction: Be aware that The View Campground has a strict maximum RV length of 24 feet for its dry camping sites. Larger RVs (over 24 ft.) will likely not be permitted or accommodated.
• Navajo National Monument Restriction: Campgrounds at Navajo National Monument (e.g., Sunset View) strictly prohibit RVs over 28 feet due to narrow, unpaved roads and low-hanging branches.
• Goulding’s & KOA are “Big Rig Friendly”: For RVs over 24 feet (including Class A and long Fifth Wheels), Goulding’s RV Park and Monument Valley KOA are the most reliable and accommodating options. They offer pull-through sites designed for larger vehicles.
• Scenic Drive: The famous 17-mile self-guided loop road through Monument Valley is an unpaved, sandy, and sometimes rough road with large potholes. It is generally not recommended for large RVs, motorhomes, or low-clearance vehicles. Consider parking the RV at the campground and taking a guided tour (which often uses high-clearance 4×4 vehicles) or driving a tow vehicle/small vehicle if you have one.

Primitive Camping

True “off-the-grid” or dispersed camping is generally not permitted within the Monument Valley Tribal Park or on the Navajo Nation lands surrounding it without a special permit. However, there are options for a rustic, self-contained experience nearby, primarily on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land in Utah.

Off-the-Grid Experience

• Designated Primitive/Dry Camping: The most primitive option near the iconic monuments is The View Campground’s Wilderness Camp Sites (for tents) or the RV Dry Sites (for self-contained vehicles). While these are in the park, they offer no hookups and a basic experience with the best views.
• BLM Dispersed Camping (Nearest Option): Your best bet for true, free primitive camping is on the nearby Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, particularly:
  • Valley of the Gods: A 17-mile dirt road winding through monoliths very similar to Monument Valley. Dispersed camping is generally allowed here, and it is a popular spot for boondockers.
  • Mexican Hat Rock: Some dispersed camping is available on BLM land near the Mexican Hat formation.
  • Muley Point: Offers incredible panoramic views but is accessed via the steep, winding Moki Dugway.

Safety Tips and Regulations

• Navajo Nation Law: The Navajo Nation strictly prohibits unauthorized dispersed camping and open fires. Camping is only permitted in designated campgrounds on tribal lands. Alcohol and firearms are strictly prohibited on the entire Navajo Nation.
• Permits (If Applicable): If you plan to hike or camp outside of designated areas on the Navajo Nation, you must obtain a Backcountry Permit from the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department. Failure to do so is considered trespassing.
• Fire Restrictions: Due to the dry, arid environment, open campfires and the collection of firewood are generally prohibited within Navajo Tribal Park campgrounds and often on nearby BLM land (check local restrictions). Propane/gas stoves are usually permitted.
• Leave No Trace: Practice strict “Pack In, Pack Out.” This includes all trash, food scraps, and toilet paper. Burying or burning waste is prohibited. Use a small shovel for human waste and pack out toilet paper.
• Road Conditions: Roads to dispersed camping spots (like Valley of the Gods or Muley Point) can be rough, sandy, or muddy after rain. High-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended, and 4×4 may be necessary.
• Water and Heat: Dehydration is a major risk. Even in cooler weather, you must plan to carry ample water (1 gallon per person, per day, minimum) for drinking, cooking, and washing.

What to Bring

Since primitive camping means you are entirely self-sufficient, ensure you have:

• Water: Minimum of 1 gallon/4 liters per person, per day. There is no potable water in BLM dispersed areas.
• Shelter: Tent, sleeping bag/quilt appropriate for high desert temperatures (which can drop significantly at night), and an insulating sleeping pad.
• Cooking: A reliable propane/gas camp stove and fuel, as open campfires may be banned.
• Essentials:
  • First-aid kit
  • Navigation tools (map, compass, or GPS device with offline maps)
  • Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
  • Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
  • Toilet paper, small shovel (for burying human waste), and a plastic bag for packing out all trash.
• High Clearance/4×4 Vehicle: Essential for safely accessing the best remote camping areas.
• Weather Appropriate Layers: The high desert experiences extreme temperature swings. Be prepared for hot days, cold nights, high winds, and sudden storms or flash floods.

The View Campground

The View Campground is the most uniquely located campground in Monument Valley, as it is the only one situated inside the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, placing you directly in front of the iconic Mittens buttes.

Location and Features

Pros and Cons

Best Campgrounds in Monument Valley (Summary)

If you are looking for alternatives to The View Campground:

Goulding’s Campground

Goulding’s Campground is a full-service facility located just outside the Monument Valley Tribal Park entrance, offering a comprehensive base camp for your visit. It is situated in the scenic “Rock Door Canyon.”

Amenities Offered

Goulding’s stands out for offering a wide range of services and facilities that are rare in the remote Monument Valley area.

Nearby Attractions

Goulding’s serves as a perfect hub for exploring the main attractions of Monument Valley and the surrounding region.

Other Nearby Campgrounds

While The View Campground (inside the park) and Goulding’s (full-service nearby) are the most popular options, several other campgrounds and camping styles are available just outside the Monument Valley Tribal Park boundaries, often offering a more budget-friendly or truly off-grid experience.

Alternative Options Outside the Park

Cost Comparisons

Camping costs in the Monument Valley area vary significantly depending on the level of amenities and proximity to the famous buttes.

Do you prefer a full-service experience with amenities and hookups, or are you aiming for the most remote, budget-friendly option?

Essential Camping Tips for Monument Valley

Camping in Monument Valley requires a unique understanding of the rules, as the land is the sovereign territory of the Navajo Nation (Diné). This means different rules apply compared to U.S. National Parks.

Permits and Reservations

How to Get Permits

There are two main types of permits/fees you need to consider for your Monument Valley visit:

1. Navajo Tribal Park Entry Fee:
   • This is the fee paid per person to enter the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park and drive the 17-mile scenic loop or visit the Visitor Center/The View Hotel.
   • Where to Get It: Paid at the park entrance gate. National Park Passes (like America the Beautiful) are NOT accepted.
2. Campsite Reservations (The View Campground):
   • If you plan to stay at The View Campground (the only one inside the park), you must make a reservation.
   • Where to Get It: Reservations for The View Campground’s RV and Wilderness (tent) sites are typically made through The View Hotel’s official website or by calling the hotel/campground directly.
3. Backcountry Hiking/Camping Permits (Required for most of the park):
   • Crucial Note: Nearly all hiking, camping, and off-road travel in Monument Valley outside of the 17-mile scenic drive is restricted and requires a permit.
   • Where to Get It: You must purchase a Backcountry Permit from the Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation Department (NNPRD). In many cases, these permits are purchased in conjunction with booking a Navajo-guided tour, as independent hiking and camping are heavily restricted to protect the land and local residents.

Booking in Advance

Given the limited number of quality campgrounds in the Monument Valley area, booking well in advance is essential, especially during the busy season (spring through fall).

• The View Campground (Inside the Park): This campground is small and has the most desirable location. You should book several months in advance, particularly if you need one of the limited RV spots.
• Goulding’s Campground (Full Hookups): As the primary full-service option for large RVs, reservations are highly recommended and often necessary 3 to 6 months in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
• KOA Journey (Mexican Hat): Also benefits from advance booking, though it may have slightly more last-minute availability than The View or Goulding’s.

Pro-Tip on Backcountry: If your goal is to hike or camp deep within the valley formations, you must book a tour with a certified Navajo guide (such as those available through Goulding’s or other local operators). The guide will handle the necessary tribal permits for that area. Independent, unguided exploration is prohibited.

What to Pack for Camping in Monument Valley

Camping in Monument Valley requires preparation for a high-desert environment characterized by intense sun exposure, drastic temperature swings, dust, and limited amenities outside of developed campgrounds.

Clothing and Gear Essentials

1. Clothing (Layering is Key)

The desert climate in Monument Valley means temperatures can fluctuate by 30∘F to 40∘F in a single day, making layers critical for comfort and safety.

2. Shelter and Sleeping Gear

Even if you have an RV, if you are tent camping, ensure your gear is ready for high winds and temperature swings.

• Tent: A sturdy tent with good ventilation and a rainfly. Make sure you have heavy-duty stakes that can grip well in sandy/rocky ground.
• Sleeping Bag: Rated for lower temperatures (e.g., 20∘F to 30∘F range), even in summer, due to cold desert nights.
• Sleeping Pad/Air Mattress: Provides crucial insulation from the cold ground, which is often more important than the sleeping bag rating.
• Shade Structure: A lightweight tarp or pop-up canopy can provide indispensable relief from the sun during midday.

3. General Gear and Safety

Food, Water, and Cooking Supplies

Water and waste management are the most critical considerations for camping in this dry, sensitive environment.

1. Water and Hydration (Top Priority)

• Carry Ample Water: The most important rule in the desert. Plan for a minimum of 1 gallon (4 liters) per person, per day, just for drinking. If you are hiking, double this.
• Water Storage: Large, durable water jugs or a water bladder/reservoir (e.g., 5-gallon containers) are recommended, especially if you are using a dry site (like The View Tent Sites or Dispersed Camping) where potable water is limited or non-existent.
• Electrolytes: Bring powdered drink mixes to replenish salts lost from sweating in the dry air.

2. Food and Cooking Supplies

• Stove and Fuel: Propane or canister stoves are highly recommended. Open fires are often prohibited on the Navajo Nation due to fire restrictions and a lack of available firewood.
• Cookware: Lightweight pot, pan, utensils, plates/bowls.
• Food Storage: Cooler and sufficient ice/ice substitutes. The heat will melt ice quickly. Keep food sealed in containers to prevent attracting local animals.
• Non-Perishables: Focus on high-calorie, non-perishable food (pasta, rice, dehydrated meals, nuts, dried fruits, energy bars).

3. Waste Management (Leave No Trace)

• Trash Bags: You must pack out all trash. There are no trash facilities in dispersed camping areas.
• Human Waste (Dispersed Areas): Carry a trowel to dig catholes (6−8 inches deep and 200 feet from water, camp, or trails). Toilet paper and hygiene products must be packed out. Consider a WAG bag (waste-alleviation-and-gelling) system for the easiest, most responsible disposal.
• Grey Water: Wash dishes/bodies 200 feet away from water sources using biodegradable soap and scatter the strained grey water widely. Never wash dishes in faucets or public restrooms.

Safety and Rules for Camping in Monument Valley

Camping in the remote, high-desert environment of Monument Valley requires adherence to safety precautions, especially regarding weather, and strict respect for the land and the Navajo Nation’s rules and culture.

Weather Considerations

The desert is beautiful but can be dangerous, with conditions changing rapidly.

• Flash Floods: This is the most serious weather risk.
  • Avoid Washes and Dry Stream Beds: Never camp, park, or hike in or near a dry wash or canyon bottom, as these areas are prone to flash flooding.
  • Monitor the Forecast: Check the National Weather Service’s flash flood potential rating daily. A storm miles away or a sudden heavy rain can cause a deadly flash flood in a seemingly dry area.
  • Seek High Ground: If a flash flood occurs, immediately move to high ground. Water levels can rise from inches to several feet in minutes.
• Extreme Temperatures:
  • Heat: Daytime temperatures, especially in summer, can be intense. Limit activity during the hottest part of the day and always carry more water than you think you need.
  • Cold: Desert nights are very cold, even after a hot day. Pack warm layers and a properly rated sleeping bag to prevent hypothermia.
• High Winds and Dust: Be prepared for sudden, strong winds that can kick up sand and dust. Wear a bandana or neck gaiter and goggles/sunglasses to protect your eyes and respiratory system. Secure your tent and all gear, as unsecured items can be damaged or lost.

Respecting Navajo Land and Culture

Monument Valley is a Navajo Tribal Park, not a U.S. National Park, meaning you are a guest on sovereign land. Strict adherence to tribal rules is mandatory.

• Photography Etiquette:
  • Always ask permission before taking photographs of Navajo people, their homes (hogans), or livestock. A gratuity is expected if permission is granted.
  • Commercial photography and filming require special permits.
• Private Land and Homes:
  • Do not trespass. Residential areas are private homes; stay on designated public roads and trails.
  • Do not disturb any structures, homes, or property.
• Rules and Regulations:
  • No Off-Road Driving: Stay on established, designated roads and trails to prevent erosion.
  • Leave No Trace (LNT): Pack out all trash, including food scraps and toilet paper. Do not bury or burn anything.
  • Firearms and Alcohol: Strictly prohibited on the Navajo Nation.
  • Artifacts and Nature: Do not disturb or remove any animals, plants, rocks, or artifacts. Climbing on the monuments or buttes is strictly prohibited.
  • Permits: A valid permit is required for camping and backcountry access.

Wildlife Safety Tips

While bears are uncommon, you must protect your camp from smaller, resourceful desert animals like coyotes, foxes, and rodents.

• Food Storage: Secure all food, trash, and scented items (like toothpaste and toiletries) in air-tight containers and store them inside your vehicle or a secured metal locker (if available). Never leave anything scented in your tent or cooler unsecured outside.
• Maintain Distance: Observe all wildlife from a respectful distance. Never feed any animals.
• Coyotes and Predators: While rare, larger predators like coyotes may be present. If an animal approaches your camp, make loud noises (yell, bang pots) and make yourself look large to scare it away.
• Venomous Creatures:
  • Check Footwear: Shake out your boots and clothing before putting them on to check for scorpions or spiders.
  • Be Aware of Snakes: Watch where you step and place your hands. Rattlesnakes are native to the area. Do not attempt to approach or handle a snake.
  • First Aid: Carry a first aid kit and a reliable light source (headlamp) to check your campsite at night.

Things to Do While Camping in Monument Valley

The primary attractions in Monument Valley are its stunning geology and the rich Navajo culture. As the park is on sovereign Navajo Nation land, visitor activities are regulated.

Hiking Trails and Scenic Drives

Access to the valley floor is limited, but there are a few must-do self-guided activities and scenic drives in and around the Tribal Park.

Top Hiking Routes

Due to the sensitive nature of the land, the Wildcat Trail is the only self-guided hiking trail available within the Monument Valley Tribal Park. All other hikes into the valley require a Navajo guide.

Must-See Scenic Viewpoints

Most of the iconic viewpoints are clustered around the Visitor Center area or are stops along the main scenic drive.

Recommended Activity: Navajo-Guided Tours

To truly experience Monument Valley beyond the main road, book a tour with a licensed Navajo guide. These tours offer:

• Access to Restricted Areas: Visit deep canyons, ancient cliff dwellings, petroglyphs, and arches not accessible to the general public.
• Cultural Immersion: Guides share Navajo history, stories, and cultural insights that enhance your understanding of the landscape as a sacred place.
• Specialty Tours: Options include sunrise/sunset tours (for the best light), photography tours, and backcountry 4×4 Jeep tours.

Navajo Guided Tours

A Navajo-guided tour is an essential experience for any camper in Monument Valley, as it provides access to restricted, private, and sacred areas of the Navajo Nation Tribal Park.

Cultural Insights

Choosing a local Navajo guide offers a profound, authentic connection to the land that a self-guided trip cannot match. Monument Valley, known to the Navajo as Tsé Biiʼ Ndzisgaii (Valley of the Rocks), is considered the spiritual “Heart of the Earth.”

• Deep Connection to the Land: Guides, often born and raised in the valley, share the Navajo legends, lore, and spiritual significance of the formations. Each butte and mesa has a story that relates to their creation, history, and sacred ceremonies.
• Access to Cultural Sites: Many tours include a stop at a Navajo Hogan, the traditional circular or octagonal home. Here, you may witness demonstrations of traditional arts like rug weaving (using hand-dyed wool) or enjoy a ceremonial music performance by your guide.
• Protection of Heritage: The Navajo Nation requires guides for backcountry access to protect fragile environments (like biological soil crusts), ancient sites (Anasazi ruins and petroglyphs), and the privacy of Navajo families who still live in the valley.

Jeep Tours and Horseback Riding

Navajo guides operate a variety of tour types designed to suit different interests and fitness levels, with most excursions requiring a fee paid directly to the local business.

Jeep Tours (4×4 Vehicle Tours)

These are the most popular way to explore the backcountry, especially for campers without high-clearance vehicles.

• Backcountry Tours: These excursions go beyond the self-guided 17-mile loop, taking you to exclusive viewpoints and restricted areas like Mystery Valley. Backcountry highlights often include natural arches like the Eye of the Sun and Ear of the Wind.
• Specialty Tours:
  • Sunrise/Sunset Tours: These are highly recommended for photographers and offer the most dramatic colors as the sun illuminates the red rock walls.
  • Photography Tours: Specifically designed to be at the best spots for optimal lighting conditions.
  • All-Day or Half-Day Tours: Offer a comprehensive look at the valley, combining the main loop, backcountry, and cultural demonstrations.

Horseback Riding

For a truly iconic Western experience, join a horseback riding tour, led by an experienced Navajo outfitter.

• Authentic Experience: Riding horses offers an intimate perspective of the valley floor, allowing you to travel silently through the shadows of the massive buttes like the East and West Mittens.
• Tour Lengths: Tours typically range from one to two hours, and some operators are renowned for providing an exceptional and respectful ride.

Respectful Camping Tip:

Remember that when you are on a tour or camping in the Tribal Park, you are a guest of the Navajo Nation. Always ask permission before photographing people, homes, or ceremonial activities, and follow all guidance from your local hosts.

Stargazing in Monument Valley

Monument Valley, with its naturally dark skies and dramatic silhouettes of buttes, offers one of the most incredible stargazing and astrophotography locations in North America.

Best Spots for Night Sky Viewing

Monument Valley is not an official International Dark Sky Park, but its remote location on the Navajo Nation Tribal Park land provides exceptionally dark skies, often rated as Bortle Class 1 or 2—among the darkest on Earth.

Stargazing in Monument Valley

Monument Valley, with its naturally dark skies and dramatic silhouettes of buttes, offers one of the most incredible stargazing and astrophotography locations in North America.

Best Spots for Night Sky Viewing

Monument Valley is not an official International Dark Sky Park, but its remote location on the Navajo Nation Tribal Park land provides exceptionally dark skies, often rated as Bortle Class 1 or 2—among the darkest on Earth.

Astrophotography Tips

Capturing the Milky Way over the iconic monuments requires planning and specific camera settings.

Conclusion

Camping in Monument Valley is more than just a place to sleep; it is a profound journey into the heart of the American Southwest and the Navajo Nation.

Recap of Why Camping in Monument Valley is Unforgettable

• Iconic Vistas from Your Doorstep: The buttes of Monument Valley are dramatic at any hour, but camping places you directly on the rim, allowing you to witness the unparalleled moment the sun rises to ignite the Mittens in fiery red and gold, and when the last light stretches their shadows across the desert floor.
• The World’s Darkest Skies: Monument Valley offers some of the clearest, darkest night skies remaining on Earth. Camping gives you all night to gaze up at the Milky Way stretching from horizon to horizon, a celestial show that city dwellers rarely get to experience.
• A Deeper Cultural Connection: Staying on the Navajo Nation Tribal Park land provides an opportunity for a respectful, immersive experience. Choosing a Navajo-run campground or guided night tour adds a layer of cultural depth, connecting you to the ancient stories and heritage of the land.

Don’t just visit the world’s most photographed landscape—live in it for a night.

Plan your trip to Monument Valley, pack your wide-angle lens, and prepare to be humbled by the silence, the scale, and the sheer brilliance of the cosmos above one of the planet’s most magnificent deserts. Your unforgettable journey under the Navajo sky awaits.