Straddles the Utah–Arizona border and showcases some of the most iconic sandstone buttes and mesas in the American Southwest. Whether you’re cruising the 17‑mile dirt “Scenic Drive,” seeking out hidden corners like Mystery Valley, or framing the Mittens at John Wayne’s Point, this landscape never fails to inspire.
Photography & Timing
Best Light: Sunrise is unbeatable, but summer sunsets strike a fine balance of warm tones and full illumination on all three buttes.
Weather Shots: Midday access to the Scenic Drive still rewards—moody skies and close‑up monument views make for dramatic compositions.
Gear: Wide‑angle for vast panoramas; telephoto to compress the Mittens and capture distant details.
Logistics
Entrance Fee: $20 per private vehicle (valid all day). Cash or card at the Visitor Center.
Hours: Daylight access only—gates close at sunset for non‑camping guests. Rangers enforce strict closing times.
Pet Policy: Dogs are welcome on leash; please clean up after your pet and avoid midday hikes in high summer temperatures (road surfaces can exceed 120 °F).
Camping
Inside the Park – View Campground
Sites: ~27 basic sites with picnic table, fire ring, and vault toilet
Fee: $20 per night (first‑come, first‑served)
Highlights: Front‑row views of West and East Mitten Buttes; night‑sky photography right from your tent
Nearby Developed Campgrounds
Goulding’s Stagecoach RV Park (adjacent to Goulding Lodge): full hookups ($45 + per night), tent sites ($25–40), hot showers, convenience store, shuttle service to Tribal Park. Pet friendly.
Valley of the Gods Campground (BLM): primitive sites with pit toilets ($15 per night), great overlook of the Goosenecks and Valley of the Gods formations—20 minutes south on UT‑261.
Dispersed BLM Camping
Where: Scattered pull‑outs east of US‑163 near Valley of the Gods and Goosenecks overlook
Cost & Stay Limit: Free; 14‑day maximum
Amenities: None—bring all water, pack out waste, use existing fire rings if present
Pro Tip: Book any campground site before dark, always check road conditions (ditched roads can wash out after rain), and download offline maps—cell service is very limited. Enjoy the vastness of Oljato‑Monument Valley under both sun and stars!
