Bonita Canyon Campground

Bonita Canyon Campground is a small, 23-site campground in a shady pine-and-oak grove at about 5,400 feet. It sits roughly 3.5 miles past the entrance, at the last developed stop before the road climbs into its narrower upper section. It makes a useful overnight base for the scenic drive and nearby hikes, especially if you want to camp inside the monument rather than make the drive in and out.

All 23 sites require reservations; there is no walk-in or first-come camping. Book ahead, especially for holidays and the busy January-to-April stretch. The access road dips steeply through a creek, and individual driveways vary. The 29-foot vehicle limit is a maximum, not a promise that every site will fit your rig. Read the notes for the exact site before reserving. Site 8 is ADA accessible, and the NPS describes the campground and restrooms as wheelchair accessible.

Regular sites have a tent pad, picnic table, raised grill and access to food lockers. There are flush toilets, sinks and drinking-water faucets, but no showers, hookups or dump station. There is no food service or supply store here; supplies are a 30-to-45-minute drive away. Dogs must stay leashed and can't be left unattended, and many trails through the rock formations don't allow them.

Deer and wild turkeys are often seen among the trees. Bears, mountain lions and other wildlife also live in the area, so store food in the provided metal lockers or a closed vehicle.

At about 5,400 feet, nights can be cold and precipitation is possible. Cell phones rarely work in the monument, and the visitor center's Wi-Fi may be too slow for maps or calls. Up to half the sites may close from June through September when monsoon flooding is a concern, so check availability before planning a summer stay.