Free dispersed camping on BLM land just off Notom Road gives campers a low-cost base for exploring Capitol Reef National Park without the reservation hassle. Access is straightforward for most vehicles if drivers take it slow, though a handful of spots closer to the canyon edge may require 4x4 and decent clearance. No water, trash service, or bathrooms are provided. Come prepared to pack everything in and out.
The terrain here is open and exposed. The ground is largely solid rock and gravel, which creates challenges for tent stakes, and wind is a recurring factor that several reviewers mention. Camping down in a gully offers some shelter from gusts, and those spots also put campers within earshot of a creek running about ten feet below. Sightlines open toward Thousand Lake Mountain and surrounding red rock formations. Fire rings left by previous campers mark out the most-used spots. Sites sit close together, so expect some neighbors during busier months.
Richard M. calls it "perfect for car camping and vans," and that tracks given the rocky ground conditions. Cell coverage is reported as decent with T-Mobile. The area around campgrounds near Torrey includes several other dispersed options, and nearby alternatives include Sulphur Creek Road Dispersed — BLM Richfield just to the northeast. A gas station, restaurant, and hotel are all within a short drive. Nights turn cold by November, so bring layers regardless of how warm the days feel.
Description
From the rolling sagebrush desert to the red gate cliffs at Torrey, all the way up to Capitol Reef National Park. The Gateway to Capitol Reef Special Recreation Management Area contains parts of the Fremont River, multi-hued bentonite hills and gorgeous hiking opportunities.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCapitol Reef Dispersed Camping is located in Utah near Torrey
Coordinates
38.31355943 N
111.36987536 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 7/30/26- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 7/30/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 7/30/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 7/30/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Capitol Reef Dispersed Camping needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 40 min from Provo, UT
- 3 hrs 5 min from St. George, UT
- 3 hrs 11 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 3 hrs 22 min from Grand Junction, CO
