Cottonwood Campground — Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Cottonwood Campground sits at the canyon’s edge in Chinle, tucked under a dense canopy of cottonwood trees that make it feel like a genuine oasis inside Navajo Nation. It’s the base camp for anyone running the South Rim Drive or Spider Rock Overlook route — free, first-come first-served, and almost always busy in summer. Sites are large enough for rigs with trailers. Flush toilets and water are on-site. No hookups, no reservations, no fee — that combination makes it rare in NPS territory.

The campground is managed jointly by NPS and Navajo Nation. Cell signal is spotty at best. Bring your own firewood if fire conditions allow — check restrictions at the visitor center, which is a short walk away. Spring and fall are the sweet spots; summer draws heavy crowds and afternoon thunderstorms roll through fast.

Free NPS camp at the canyon mouth.