If you've ever watched a movie that takes places in the desert southwest—for example, Forrest Gump—you've seen Monument Valley. Located right on the border of Arizona and Utah in the Navajo Tribal Park, this is the quintessential southwest landscape: red rock formations, vast desert, and wild horses. The Monuments, or giant rock formations, have taken thousands of years to form, and they are as original as any natural landmark you could find. One glance, and you know exactly what you're looking at.
The campground itself lies on the Arizona side of the border, but only by a few hundred yards. It is adjacent to the hotel and restaurant that share its name. Positioned closer to the monuments than anything else on the property, the campground offers the most unobstructed views of Monument Valley. The tent sites are down off the road on the first slope into the valley. There are 30 sites squeezed into an area most places would designate as four or five sites. For a view like this, you will have to share your space with others or sleep on a bit of a slope.
Alternatively, there are about 10 cabins for rent that sit to the left of the tent sites on the same hill. They are small and primitive, but they are exactly what you're looking for if you want the view without the tent.
There is a bathhouse and it is extremely nice. It is kept very clean and very warm, which can be a lifesaver on cold, windy desert nights. Full showers with hot water are an amazing thing after a night of sleep in a tent getting smacked around by the wind all night. The campground also has RV sites, although they are dry sites. What a view to wake up to in your home on wheels!
All things considered, this is an amazing campground. Easily accessible, within miles of Monument Valley, it features an unbelievably great view. If you're passing through Monument Valley, this is a place you have to stay. You won't regret it.
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