Capitol Reef National Park offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of stunning landscapes and tranquil camping experiences. From the captivating canyons and colorful cliffs to the bountiful orchards and historic fruit farms, Capitol Reef presents a unique blend of natural splendor and cultural heritage. And what better way to immerse yourself in this captivating environment than by setting up camp and embracing the serenity of the night sky? This comprehensive guide of nationalparkshops.com delves into the diverse options available within Capitol Reef National Park camping, covering everything from established campgrounds to secluded backcountry destinations.
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Campsites at Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park has a variety of campgrounds to suit various tastes and requirements. Whether you’re looking for facilities suitable for families or a secluded adventure in the wild, there’s a perfect campsite ready to greet you.
Fruita Campground
- Campground nightly fee: $25.00/ per site, per night
- Directions: The Fruita Campground is approximately 1 mile south of the Visitor Center on the Scenic Drive
Imagine a little slice of paradise in the middle of the desert – that’s the Fruita Campground for you! Nestled next to the Fremont River and encircled by charming historic orchards, this campground is a real gem. With 71 sites available, each one comes equipped with a picnic table, firepit, and grill above ground. Capitol Reef National Park camping offers a unique experience, with no personal water, sewage, or electrical connections at each site.
For your convenience, there’s a spot to dump RV waste and fill up on fresh water near Loops A and B. The restrooms have running water and flush toilets, although there are no showers available. Plus, if accessibility is a concern, worry not – there are sites conveniently located right next to the restrooms. Capitol Reef National Park camping ensures that you have a comfortable and scenic stay amidst the stunning landscapes of the park.
Cathedral Valley Campground
- Campground nightly fee: No-fee
The Cathedral Valley Campground sits about halfway along the Cathedral Valley Loop Road in Capitol Reef’s Cathedral District. Nestled at around 7,000 feet (2,133 m) up in the Pinyon/Juniper-covered foothills of Thousand Lake Mountain.
Located approximately 36 miles (57.9 km) from the visitor center, this basic, no-fee campground offers six (6) sites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire grate. There’s a pit toilet available, but no water on site. Reservations aren’t accepted; it’s first-come, first-served. Each site can accommodate up to 8 visitors and a maximum of 2 vehicles.
You’ll likely need a high clearance four-wheel drive vehicle to reach this spot. The campground is open throughout the year, but keep in mind that it might be tough to get to during certain weather conditions.
Cedar Mesa Campground
If you’re looking for a rustic camping experience, Cedar Mesa Campground is the place to be! It’s nestled about 23 miles south of Utah State Highway 24 on the scenic Notom-Bullfrog Road, sitting pretty at an elevation of 5,500 feet, making it an ideal spot for Capitol Reef National Park camping.
Most of the time, you can easily reach Cedar Mesa Campground with a regular two-wheel drive vehicle, but every now and then, you might need something with a bit more clearance.
This hidden gem of a campground offers five cozy sites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire grate for all your outdoor cooking needs. While there’s a pit toilet available, remember that there’s no water on site. The campground welcomes visitors year-round, but it’s always a good idea to touch base with the Capitol Reef Visitor Center to double-check those road conditions before you head out for your overnight adventure. Capitol Reef National Park camping provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in nature.
For nature lovers and hikers, the nearby 4.5-mile Red Canyon trail is a must-do! This scenic route starts right from the campground and takes you through a picturesque landscape of Pinyon and Juniper trees, leading you into a stunning box canyon. So lace up those hiking boots and get ready for some breathtaking views while enjoying your Capitol Reef National Park camping experience!
Group Campsite
Nestled near the Fruita Campground, the Group Campsite offers a tranquil setting for your outdoor getaway. Reservations are made on a 12-month rolling basis from your arrival date. So, if you book on April 20, 2022, you can reserve dates up to April 20, 2023. This change gives you more flexibility in planning your trip.
Please note that the campsite is closed for maintenance every Tuesday and Wednesday night. The maximum occupancy for the site is 40 people, including children of all ages. The cost for a night at the group site is $125. You can bring recreational vehicles, as long as the total number doesn’t exceed ten (10). Keep in mind that a truck and trailer count as two vehicles.
All vehicles must fit within the designated parking area at the group campsite, leaving enough space for emergency vehicles and park staff to move freely. There’s limited parking available elsewhere for vehicles linked to the group campsite, so please avoid parking on the grass. Also, vehicles longer than 27 feet may have difficulty maneuvering, so plan accordingly.
Backpacking in Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park provides a variety of hiking opportunities for experienced backpackers and individuals who appreciate discovering secluded locations. Designated hiking trails guide visitors through narrow, winding gorges and slot canyons, leading to breathtaking panoramic views from the top of the Waterpocket Fold.
To camp in undeveloped areas within the park, a backcountry permit is necessary. This permit is complimentary and can be acquired in person at the visitor center during regular operating hours.
Capitol Reef National Park Camping Alternatives
There are other options for camping outside the park, such as on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, national forests (USFS), and private campgrounds. During winter, many nearby public and private campgrounds may be closed, so it’s best to check locally for availability.
The closest campground and RV parks can be found in Torrey, which is 11 miles (18 km) west on Highway 24 from Capitol Reef National Park. Additionally, there are campgrounds and RV parks along Highway 24 near Caineville, about 19 miles (31 km) away, and in Hanksville, approximately 37 miles (60 km) from the park.
For more information on camping options, you can visit the Wayne County Travel Council information center or contact them at (435) 425-3365. The information center is situated 10 miles (16 km) west of the Capitol Reef Visitor Center, at the intersection of Highways 12 and 24. They are open daily from spring through fall.
Conclusion
Capitol Reef National Park has a variety of camping options for all kinds of travelers. You can choose from family-friendly sites, wilderness adventures, or even luxurious glamping experiences. No matter what you’re looking for, Capitol Reef National Park camping has something that will suit your preferences. So, get your gear ready, put on your hiking boots, and prepare for an amazing camping trip in the heart of Capitol Reef National Park. It’s a perfect place for adventure, relaxation, and enjoying the beauty of nature.
