When Is A Permit Needed
Price v. Barr had no impact on how the National Park Service regulates still photography, so there are no changes in how the National Park Service regulates that activity. Still photographers require a permit only when:
Canyon De Chelly National Monument Boondocking Locations Ganado Us Postal Office
AddressElevation: 6398
Management: US Postal Service
Only safe place in Ganado that allows RV overnight parking. Park on the north side of the US Postal Office. There is a flat and level cement pad to park on. The road into this free Canyon de Chelly National free campsite area is paved.
Best Review:
Ok for an overnight spot. The parking area has a lot of ruts, but once you get on the questionable concrete pad, its pretty level. We pull a 19ft TT. We didnt need to unhook, which was a plus. It was quiet. There is a hospital adjacent to the spot. This is an OLD post office!
Rv Parks & Campgrounds Near Canyon De Chelly National Monument
Much of the land around Canyon de Chelly National Monument is part of the Navajo Nation, which means that camping opportunities are few and far between. Most options are rustic, so an RV is the perfect way to enjoy a comfortable stay while you explore the stunning Arizona landscape. If you don’t have an RV, a rental from RVshare is a great alternative. Choose one near you or near Canyon de Chelly to find the perfect option for your crew.
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Canyon De Chelly National Monument Boondocking Spots Fire And Rock Navajo Casino
Address249 Hwy 66, Church Rock, NM 87311Rehoboth, New MexicoElevation: 6617
Management: Casino
The road into this free Canyon de Chelly National free campsite area is Paved. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.
Best Review:
Always check first before parking in a private area. The people I spoke with could not have been nicer. I stayed far west in the far west parking lot. Be aware, this is right next to the train tracks where there is a lot of train traffic. I wasnt bothered, in fact enjoyed watching the goings on. It was not too noisy to sleep. I wouldnt stay longer than overnight, as purely a courtesy returned for allowing me to stay, but I would stop again.
Plan Your Visit To The Navajo Nation
We hope you enjoy your visit to Canyon de Chelly National Monument! The park is located in Chinle, Arizona, and is entirely on Navajo tribal lands with families living in the canyon. While visiting the Navajo Nation, please remember we observe Daylight Savings Time from March to November.
Please consider visiting these areas nearby -, Navajo NM, and .
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Changes To Commercial Filming Permits In The Parks
On January 22, 2021, the US District Court for the District of Columbia issued a decision in Price v. Barr determining the permit and fee requirements applying to commercial filming under 54 USC 100905, 43 CFR Part 5, and 36 CFR Part 5.5 are unconstitutional. In response to the decision, the National Park Service issued interim guidance on February 22, 2021, to manage filming activities. Under the interim guidance, filming activities may require a permit if they would impact park resources or the visitor experience. The National Park Service intends to update regulations addressing filming activities that are consistent with the outcome of Price v. Barr. Once effective, those regulations will replace and supersede the interim guidance.
Those interested in filming activities at Canyon de Chelly National Monument are encouraged to contact the Permit Coordinator at Nmckerry@nps.gov for more information about filming in the park and to discuss how to minimize potential impacts to visitors and sensitive park resources.
Canyon De Chelly National Monument Hiking Trail #3 Spider Rock Viewpoint
You can enjoy hiking at the Spider Rock Viewpoint if youre using the South Rim Drive. The trail will lead you to a place that overlooks Canyon de Chelly and a monolith. The trail derived its name from Spider Rock which was believed to be the home of Spider-Woman. This 15.5 miles trail is the last stop of the South Rim Drive. You know youre near the ruins when you start seeing several spotting tubes along the way. This concrete trail is wide enough and wheelchair accessible.
Upon reaching the ruins, you will be welcomed by scenic sandstone, a few brush types, and some junipers. The Spider Rock can be seen from all overlooks, and you can take as many pictures as you want. If you move forward, you can now easily view different canyons.
Length: 0.4 mi
Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Forest, Lake, Views
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Ascend From Canyon De Chelly To The Plateau Via A Route Used By Ancient Canyon Inhabitants
Rising with the sun, we break camp before hiking down Canyon Del Muerto. In this part of Canyon De Chelly wild turkey, black bear, and skunks outnumber the domestic animals that live here. After crossing the Canyon Del Muerto wash, or “arroyo” as its called in this part of the country, we enter a stand of bright green cottonwood trees and soak up the shade before our climb out. Like the Ancestral Puebloans, Hopi, and Navajo before us, we ascend the Bare Rock Trail toward the canyon rim. Using the Moqui steps, which were carved directly into the rock by ancient canyon inhabitants, we follow an improbable looking path upwards to the rim, enjoying spectacular views along the way. Topping out onto the pinyon pine and juniper-dominated plateau, we navigate a few shallow washes before reaching our waiting shuttle vehicle. We plan to arrive back in Phoenix between 6:30-7:30 p.m. this evening. All meals included.
Hiking: 4 miles, Elevation gain: 600′. This hike requires walking up low-angle sandstone cliff faces and may be challenging for some individuals with knee or hip mobility issues. Transfer time: 6.0 hours total with multiple stops en route.
Although we do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control.
Canyon De Chelly National Monument Boondocking
Are you looking for somewhere wonderful to visit in Arizona and dont know where? Canyon de Chelly National Monument is the place to be. The national monument is solely owned by the Navajo Tribal Trust of the Navajo Nation. Whether you want to learn the history of the Navajo people or looking for hiking places there are endless things to see and do while in the park. Moreover, you dont have to worry about accommodation since different hotels and eateries near the park. One drawback for some is to visit inside the canyon you must take one of the Navajo guided Canyon de Chelly tours. They provide both Canyon de Chelly horseback tours and jeep tours.
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Do I Need A Permit To Film
Under the interim guidance, the National Park Service is not distinguishing between types of filming, such as commercial, non-commercial, or news gathering. Low-impact filming activities will not require a special use permit, but non-low-impact filming activities may require a permit to address their potential impacts on park resources and visitor activities.
Low-Impact Filming
Low-impact filming is defined as outdoor filming activities in areas open to the public, except areas managed as wilderness, involving five people or less and equipment that will be carried at all times, except for small tripods used to hold cameras. Those participating in low-impact filming activities do not need a permit and are not required to contact the park in advance. If low-impact filmers have questions about areas where they want to film, they should contact the park directly.
Videographers, filmers, producers, directors, news and other staff associated with filming are reminded that rules and regulations that apply to all park visitors, including park hours and closed areas, still apply to filming activities even if a permit is not required. Check with the park staff for more information on closures, sensitive resources, and other safety tips.
Non-Low-Impact Filming
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maintain public health and safety
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protect environmental or scenic values
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protect natural or cultural resources
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allow for equitable allocation or use of facilities or
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avoid conflict among visitor use activities.
Canyon De Chelly National Monument Boondocking Locations Quaking Aspen Trail
AddressElevation: 7690
Management: National Forest Service
Dispersed camping, no water, no toilets . Tent and RV camping. The road into this free Canyon de Chelly National boondocking area is dirt.
Best Review:
Amazing place! Went about half a mile down from gate and found a very private spotonly saw 1 other person, many campsites. Not very many bugs. Will come back and stay longer next time. Just no signal for us.
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National Park Passes Do Not Apply On Tribal Land
As you leave the Canyon de Chelly National Monument Welcome Center and drive toward the canyons, youll cross the boundary into the area that is managed by the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department which includes the Cottonwood Campground. Be aware that National Park Passes and discounts are not accepted at Navajo Tribal Parks.
There is no cost to drive along the scenic roads but there is a fee for camping and tours.
Canyon De Chelly National Monument Boondocking Spots Shonto Marketplace
Address
Elevation: 5771
Management Public Bureau of Land Management
This area, Bisti De-Na-Zin Wilderness, is a favorite with photographers for its hoodoo formations, the wilderness is a remote, desolate area of colorful badlands. Time and natural elements have created strange rock formations leaving the area with some of the most unusual scenery in New Mexico. The road into this free Canyon de Chelly National free campsite area is dirt.
Best Review:
This is a trailhead parking lot. 2 miles off of highway. Its flat and there is plenty of space. No water, services of any kin. Before the parking lot there are a few other places to park. As of June 2019, you cant drive past the parking lot as a piece of the road washed out. No Verizon service. You can walk around and get a strong enough signal to send a text. As for the hiking, it spectacular and other worldly. Easy hiking and you can easily rack up 5 to 7 miles of wondering through the area.
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Canyon De Chelly National Monument Boondocking Spots The Home Depot
AddressElevation: 6483
Management: Retail Business
You can park over night in the far north parking lot. The road into this Canyon de Chelly National campsite area is paved.
Best Review:
We stayed here for a night in our 44 5th wheel with semis as well. After talking to the manager he said to park in the SOUTH lot next to the hotel. He Also warned that their are homeless in the area and lots of nighttime foot traffic. We had no issues with anything but we did have an encounter where we were asked for money by a very intoxicated person.
Canyon De Chelly National Monument Boondocking Spots 191 Off 400
AddressElevation: 7503
Management: National Forest Service
Dispersed campsite. Stayed here on a 42 foot toy hauler best one for this size was the first one to the left straight in all the way to the gate. After March 31.
Best Review:
Loved this spot. There are probably 8 spots to camp here all are separate from each other, flat, and surrounded by tall pine trees. Saw a 40 foot here. 8 miles off the interstate. All good paved road to 191 which is a wide well maintained gravel road. No cell service.
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Canyon De Chelly National Monument Boondocking Locations Roadside Option
AddressElevation: 4898
Management: Ute Mountain Reservation
The road into this free Canyon de Chelly National free campsite area is Gravel. The roadside turnout is .09 miles from a paved road. Roadside Option is open Year-round. The maximum RV length at Roadside Option is unlimited. You may stay overnight at Roadside Option .
Best Review:
Gravel-ish pull-out on south side of highway. Fairly flat over by Quintons memorial, no signs prohibiting overnight parking. Awesome panoramic views . Traffic is pretty minimal at night, but we moved across the road due to the headlights from both directions. Good place to hang for the night if you arrive at Four Corners Monument only to discover that its now gated and privately run with access only from 8a-4:45p
Spider Rock Campground Information
Spider Rock Campground, a magical raw landscape, nestled in a natural wooded area of the Tse Ho Tso Plateau at Canyon de Chelly National Monument, features more than 30 spacious RV and tent camping sites for you to choose from. Spider Rock Campground is open every day throughout the year. The winter months are some of the most stunning and peaceful at Canyon de Chelly, especially when it snows.
For tent and RV campers who love the crisp air, its business as usual in the wintertime!
For your camping comfort, we also have a number of cozy fork hogans, which were built by hand by the campground owner using local materials. Each hogan includes an interior wood burning stove to help you keep warm. Small hogans sleep 1 or 2 people large hogans are suitable for up to 4 campers.
- Small Hogan: Sleeps 1-2
- Large Hogan: Sleeps up to 6
*** Rates vary depending on season.
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Are There Other Permit Requirements
You may be required to obtain liability insurance naming the United States as additionally insured in an amount commensurate with the risk posed to park resources by your proposed activity. You may also be asked to post a bond to ensure the payment of all charges and fees and the restoration of the area if necessary.
Nearby Attractions And Activities:
The Navajo Nation has encompasses over 27,000 square miles, extending into the States of Arizona, New Mexico, & Utah. This area has a long history going back as far as pre-historic times & the subsequent arrival of Spanish & European settlers. This is home to the Navajo people with its array of more than a dozen national monuments, tribal parks & historical sites, and peppered with a dozen lakes and ponds Lake Powell alone has 186 miles of Navajoland shoreline.
From the grand sandstone masterpieces of monument valley to the ancient pueblo ruins of Canyon de Chelly theres plenty to see, do, and learn from on the Arizona side of the Navajo reservation. Be sure to incorporate some smaller treasures during your visit, such as Navajo Nation Window Rock Monument & Veteran Memorial Park, or Hubbell Trading Post and the many other national historic site.
Populating most of the Four Corners area, the native tribes were largely hunters and gatherers. As settlers overtook the Southwest due to manifest destiny, conflict ensued and adaptation to the new America that was forming was necessary. The Navajo Reservations expansive boundaries include a wide array of landscapes, formations, and plants that make this area such a distinctive landmark in the Southwest and the world.
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White House Ruin Trail
This 2.7 mile highly trafficked out-and-back trail is the only trail in the park accessible to the public without a Navajo guide. From the White House Overlook, hike 600 feet down in the canyon through sandstone switchbacks where you will get a closer look at the picturesque ruins of the Kinii ni gai, or white house. This structure was built in 1060 AD by the Ancestral Puebloans and lived in for over 200 years. Make sure to bring ample water, because the return trip out of the canyon is likely the most strenuous part of this trail!
History Of Canyon De Chelly National Monument
Initially, the place served as the home of the Archaic people over 5,000 years ago. They were hunters and gatherers and only lived in seasonal campsites. Its easy to know how they lived since they had painted images of their lifestyles on the canyon walls.
Later from 200 BC to 750 AD, the place was inhabited by the Navajo people who were basket-makers and farmers. As time progressed, the new community was able to build large public granaries and other structures. Their life slowly changed for the worse when a new group of settlers known as the Pueblos invaded their land.
From AD 750, the new community started building stone houses with household compounds and decorated walls. Most of the remnants seen in the monuments were built by the Pueblos settlers. They are believed to have left the area because of the poor farming conditions. Later in the early 1700s, the Hopis community invaded the area and started practicing seasonal farming.
The Navajos joined them and showed them how to practice domesticated farming. However, they never lived in peace since the Spanish settlers, and other Indian settlers wanted to live in their land. In 1805, the Spanish military advanced their war, and the Navajo people could not hold for long. They tried to take shelter at the rocks, but the Spanish people killed most of the Navajo warriors. Their hiding place where they took cover is known as the Massacre Cave.
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Backcountry Camping Within The Canyon
Backcountry camping is available with a guide and is accessible through hiking, horseback riding, or driving options, depending on your interests and fitness level. Camping beneath the stars in Canyon de Chelly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and is best done from March to October. Backcountry camping does take some research. Make sure you have the right local guide and the right gear before heading into the canyon!
This article was sponsored by GCI Outdoors.
Check out their camping chairs for your next trip to the Southwest!