Camping in Capitol Reef National Park includes options at both high and low elevations, with some campgrounds sitting at 8,000 feet while others rest at 5,500 feet in the desert valleys. The temperature differential between these elevations can exceed 20°F, providing refuge from summer heat for those willing to drive to higher ground. Most dispersed camping areas lack facilities but offer minimal light pollution for superior stargazing conditions.
What to do
Fruit picking in historic orchards: Capitol Reef maintains working orchards from the pioneer settlement of Fruita, where visitors can pick seasonal fruit. "In the heart of capital reef national park, this campground offers absolutely beautiful! Our tent is currently surrounded by red rock structures on 3 sides, along with a horse stable, and… a fruit orchard. This venue is surreal," notes a camper at Fruita Campground.
Creek hikes with waterfalls: Several trails follow creek beds with natural waterfalls. "Awesome place to camp when you can't get a spot at Capitol Reef. It's a 15 minute drive away from a great hike to a waterfall and you can swing over to Capitol Reef in about 40 minutes," explains a visitor to Lower Bowns.
Dark sky viewing: The minimal light pollution makes astronomy activities particularly rewarding. "The night sky was magnificent and may have made up for our inability to shower for a couple days. We were the only ones in the park, winter camping. It's located in a dark sky area, so the skies are clear and the air is clean," reports a winter visitor to Route 24 Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Elevation options for temperature control: Higher elevation sites provide relief from desert heat. "Not a far drive to Capitol Reef and much higher in elevation in the mountains so it was a nice relief from the heat," explains a camper at Singletree.
Accessible dispersed camping: Free camping options near the park offer surprising accessibility. "Plenty of great spots with fire rings for all types of vehicles. We brought our 26ft Class C Motorhome here although we were towing a dolly and our drop hitch did get stuck on a steep part and we had to dig it out. But, we just got a little overzealous with the clearance. There are plenty of spots that are easily accessible," notes a visitor to Beas Lewis Flat Dispersed.
Wildlife encounters: Wildlife sightings enhance the camping experience. "There were abundant mule deer that walked through the campsite. Bathrooms were clean and they also provided potable water and a dishwashing station. The campground also backs up to an orchard with a brook running through it," shares a visitor at Fruita Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal facility closures: Some campgrounds close amenities during shoulder seasons. "Located in Torrey, Utah this RV park was a great place to stay when visiting Capitol Reef National Park. The National Park was a 10 minute drive away. They're still open in the Winter, but we didn't find out they closed their showers and bathrooms until we were told upon arrival (They close 10/31)," cautions a visitor to Sand Creek RV.
High winds at dispersed sites: Exposed plateau locations experience strong winds. "This is a great spot not far at all from the Park. You're up on a beautiful bluff but we won't stay again due to relentless wind. Zero wind in the park just a 15 min drive away but the wind here was just terrible. I feel sorry for the tent campers!" warns a camper at Beas Lewis Flat Dispersed.
Limited water sources: Bring your own water for dispersed camping areas. "Great dispersed camping right outside the west side of the park in a beautiful area next to a small canyon. Plenty of room, accessible with low clearance car. There are porta potties on site that were cleaned the morning we got there! I also had service which was nice," notes a visitor to Route 24 Dispersed Camping.
Tips for camping with families
Seek shaded sites: Summer heat makes shade critical for comfort. "This campground was clean and calm. We liked having the store on site, and the drive to Capitol was an easy one. The staff was very friendly, the showers and bathrooms were very clean, and we loved the open lawn in the middle," recommends a family staying at Thousand Lakes RV Park.
Consider wind protection for tents: Many campgrounds have wind barriers for tent sites. "Very nice campsite with a lot of space for tents," notes a visitor to Fruita Campground, though at more exposed sites, "The site had nice views but is very exposed and very very windy which means we kept time outside of the van to a minimum as it wasn't very relaxing. There are wooden shelters for tent spots to mitigate the wind," explains a camper at Sand Creek RV.
Look for recreation areas: Some campgrounds offer additional activities for children. "There is a restaurant on site, small park for the kids, basketball court and dog walk area. The sites are very close no privacy," reports a visitor to Thousand Lakes RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: The perimeter sites typically offer more seclusion. "We were able to drive up on a high ridge of the pull-out area that the RVs could not easily access, so we felt alone and watched the gorgeous sunsets from our campsite each night," explains a visitor to Route 24 Dispersed Camping.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "No issues finding a spot for our 30ft 5th wheel. Very quiet and right off the highway. Plenty of spots mostly level. Can be very windy. Good t-mobile coverage," reports an RVer at Overlook Point.
Road conditions for larger rigs: Many access roads require caution. "Easy to find & pretty smooth road to some nice spots. Beautiful view! Easy access to downtown Torrey & Capitol Reef National Park," shares a visitor to Overlook Point, while another camper warns, "The road is a little rough in spots, so slow is good."
