Stateline Campground ~ Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

​Click this Flickr link to view all photos: Stateline Campground

The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is a popular spring season destination and there are plenty options for planning an entire vacation in this region. Escalante-Grand Staircase, Glen Canyon, the Grand Canyon North Rim and unique points of interest in the Navajo Nation are all right next door, so finding a cozy spot for a basecamp in a central location definitely is the way to go. This is where the Stateline Campground fits into the picture, but there is a catch. The Stateline Campground is situated on a lengthy dirt road that parallels the west side of Vermilion Cliffs, so not every vehicle can get to this place with ease. Spring season storms can dramatically alter the dirt road conditions and on any given day it will be necessary to endure endless miles of washboard ripples, so those who drive a regular passenger car may want to stick with accommodations closer to the pavement. High ground clearance vehicles and rugged RVs can handle House Rock Valley Road and the Stateline Campground awaits midway through this touring route.

The Stateline Campground offers basic facilities, canopy covered picnic tables and chargrills, so this is a great little spot to unwind and soak up the majestic scenery. On the downside, there are only 7 campsites, so it will take a bit of luck to find an open spot. No drinking water is available onsite and packing extra water is advisable, especially during the summer season. Folks that camp here tend to not be in a hurry to leave, but fortunately there are BLM dispersed camping options nearby.

The benefit of opting for a stay at the Stateline Campground is a visitor will be fresh and ready for adventures in the local area and there are plenty of amazing things to do. First of all, the Stateline Campground is the final destination on the 800 mile long Arizona National Scenic Trail and it is the starting point for through hikers heading south for the winter. The Wire Pass Trailhead to Escalante-Grand Staircase, Buckskin Gulch Trailhead and the Maze Rock Art Trail are nearby, so there is plenty of footwork to be done in this area. For those who seek relaxation, the Condor Viewing Site is just a few miles south. The Stateline Campground is also a great jumping off point for experiencing the most intriguing points of interest in the Vermilion Cliffs, which include The Wave, Coyote Buttes and Paria Canyon. These three destinations are highly protected and permits are required. Hiking permits to these majestic places can only be obtained at the ranger station on House Rock Valley Road near Highway 89A and reservations must be made well ahead of time, so it is best to keep this in mind when making plans. All in all it is easy to see where the tiny Stateline Campground fits into the picture, so be sure to chalk this cozy spot high on the list!