Camping near Chinle

In northeast Arizona, in the heart of the Navajo Nation, the tribal community of Chinle is the gateway to the Canyon De Chelly National Monument. Spanning 83,840 acres the vast canyon contains ancestral Navajo, Puebloo, and Hopi ruins. Tour the site with an authorized Navajo guide, or drive along the North and South Rim drive for views from overlooks. Highlights include Spider Rock, White House Ruins, and the Canyon del Muerto. Spend the night at the Navajo Nation’s Cottonwood Campground, which offers tent and non-hookup RV sites, or at additional campgrounds within the Navajo Nation.

Chinle and Navajo Nation

Located just east of Chinle, the Navajo Nation’s Cottonwood Campground offers easy access to the vast Canyon De Chelly National Monument. 90 campsites are available for tent and RV campers (no hookups). Additional campsites can be found further in the Navajo Nation at Tsaile Lake, Camp Asaayi in the high Chuska Mountains, and at Narbona Pass Campground. Backcountry camping is also available with a permit.

Petrified Forest National Park

Head south to explore the fossils and petroglyphs of Petrified Forest National Park. Admire the views of the Painted Desert and get up close to the petrified remains of fallen trees from millions of years ago. Backpacking camping is available with a wilderness permit. Outside the park, find campsites and Hopi Indian history at Homolovi State Park and McHood Park Campground near Winslow.

Bluewater Lake State Park

For a change of scenery from the desert landscape, head across the border into New Mexico past Gallup to Bluewater State Park. Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing on the serene lake, or soak up the views of the Zuni mountains on a hike. Spend the night with amenities at the park’s developed campground, with tent and RV sites, or boat-in to a primitive campsite.

The best time to visit Chinle and the Canyon de Chelly National Monument is in the spring and fall, when the weather is comfortable enough for outdoor exploration. Summer temperatures can soar in the desert, while winter can see freezing temperatures, and even snow, which can make certain areas inaccessible.