Dispersed camping sites near Torrey, Utah provide excellent access to Capitol Reef National Park without the constraints of developed campgrounds. Most locations sit at elevations between 6,500-7,200 feet, creating temperature differences of 10-15°F cooler than inside the park. Cell service varies dramatically with reliable coverage at higher elevation sites and signal boosters often necessary in canyon areas.
What to do
Creek exploration: Sunglow Campground offers direct access to a small stream perfect for wildlife spotting and cooling off. "Our tent was close to a little stream that was really pleasant to listen to as we fell asleep," notes one visitor who appreciated the natural water feature.
Stargazing: Route 24 Dispersed Camping provides optimal dark sky viewing conditions with minimal light pollution. "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," reports a camper who visited during off-season.
Fruit picking: Fruita Campground offers rare access to historic orchards. "We frequented the orchards and picked apples and bought pie and coffee everyday from the Gifford House. Would definitely go again! Capitol Reef remains my favorite Utah park," shares one visitor who took advantage of the unique agricultural feature.
What campers like
Weather advantages: Singletree offers cooler temperatures during summer months due to its higher elevation. "We were happy we stayed here over the Fruita Campground in Capitol Reef. It was cooler being at a high elevation, and way less crowded," explains a camper who appreciated the temperature difference.
Wildlife viewing: Beas Lewis Flat Dispersed attracts various desert wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk hours. "Absolutely amazing views of Capitol Reef here as well as Boulder Mountain. Plenty of great spots with fire rings for all types of vehicles," one visitor notes about the camping area's natural setting.
Water features: Singletree Campground includes a refreshing stream running through multiple sites. "This is a shaded campground with a beautiful stream that goes through the sites," remarks a visitor who found the water feature particularly appealing during hot weather periods.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Overlook Point experiences significant wind due to its exposed position. "Very nice, scenic spot, exactly what I wanted in canyon country. A mix of larger, open sites that will accommodate larger rigs, and smaller, more private sites," reports one camper who appreciated the terrain despite challenging conditions.
Site limitations: Sunglow Campground has specific constraints on tent placement. "Tent sites are small. Depending on the site, you will have to put your tent on the gravel spots for cars," notes a visitor who found the designated areas somewhat restrictive.
Seasonal pests: Route 24 Dispersed Camping experiences seasonal insect activity. "Be aware there are hoards of small flies that relentlessly swarm the site but this may be a summertime phenomenon," warns a summer visitor who dealt with the natural annoyance.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly exploration: Sunglow Campground features accessible climbing areas for children. "Great scenery. Kids wanted to explore all over. The red rock cliffs are pretty," shares a family who found the natural playground ideal for younger campers.
Play areas: Thousand Lakes RV Park provides dedicated recreational spaces. "There is a large park area in the center with a playground and volleyball court. Super kid friendly," explains a visitor who appreciated the designated activity areas.
Water recreation: Fruita Campground offers stream access for cooling off. "There were also lots of people cooling off in the river that runs through the campground. There were abundant mule deer that walked through the campsite," notes a summer visitor who found multiple ways to entertain children.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Beas Lewis Flat Dispersed requires careful navigation for larger 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," cautions an RVer who still managed to access the site.
Hookup reliability: Thousand Lakes RV Park experiences occasional electrical issues during peak season. "When all the large RVs returned for the night, our electricity browned out and we couldn't run our AC. Our power also cut out during the night," reports a visitor who encountered challenges during high-demand periods.
Site selection: Sand Creek RV offers premium edge sites with better views. "The spots on the edge looking over the field toward the cliffs were more secluded and nice, but very windy. There were wind huts for some, and fire rings although we didn't feel comfortable using them given the dryness and the wind," advises an experienced RVer.
