The Bend Gem

We spent 3 nights here right along the reservoir and it was great. Although it was “busy” there was plenty of space between us an our neighbours.

We rock a rooftop tent so it was easy to level. Bugs were minimal during the day. Mosquitos ramp up at night but they didn’t seem to want anything to do with us.

Saw plenty of people fishing during the day.

There are washrooms nearby but they aren’t super close to all camping areas.

Easy to get to in with large passenger van. Parked right by the reservoir. Peaceful. Only bugs really close to the water. Relatively cool temps and breezy.

Nice way to stay close to Capitol Reef. Heavy rain yesterday kept us from coming earlier, but things have mostly stabilized. No problem getting here from 24.

This site was not easy to be found at night and was not clearly marked. Also there was no cell phone service for AT&T and Verizon.

I’m not sure where the coordinates for this site took us but I don’t think it was to the right place. It was way further away from Capitol Reef than specified and the sites looked different from the photos. We drove out there and it gave us a bad feeling so we turned around and found a different dispersed camping spot closer to the park. There were fire rings and campsites but it just seemed a little bit off.

My group and I arrived around 4 pm on Friday and there was no one there. Grabbed great spot by the river bend. Easy to pass so make sure to keep eyes peeled after passing Notom Rd. Filled up Saturday

Great spot to crash for the night if going to Capital Reef or surrounding area. The upper area is essentially a big dirt parking lot so not alot of privacy (keep in mind if you're tent camping or not in a self contained vehicle). If you can manage your vehicle over the one drop at the top of the road that leads to the river, DO IT! These spots are much nicer. Get little river to splash around in and pretty back drop. Down side is that its close to the road and lack of space in upper lot.

I had such a nice night camping here. Close to the road so you don’t have to stress about driving down some sketchy bumpy road, easy access is always a plus for me. Really lovely views all around. My spot was looking right down at the river, made for a great spot to sit and read. Other campers were all friendly which was good because you are pretty close to one another. Went down to the rice for some yoga and to go for a little swim. Water was cold but refreshing after a long day of hot hiking. Stars were incredible at night as well. There might have been a bit of noise from the nearby road, but it isn’t busy enough to be a problem. Would absolutely stay here again.

This location is perfect for those planning on exploring in Capitol Reef National Park, as you’re less than 15 minutes away. You can’t beat the scenery, especially if you get there in the early afternoon and snag a spot on the river. You can get even better ones if you’re able to navigate a small drop with rocks, on your right immediately as you pull off the highway. Don’t blink or you’ll miss your turnoff next to the guardrail in the bend. The scenery is amazing! We also found recent mountain lion tracks within 50 yards of our site. No cell service, if you’re on Verizon. The river is great for a quick shower, washing dishes etc.

Grateful for this spacious nook at mile marker 89. Room for many. A few fire rings. Near Fremont river. A hill to offer some privacy from the road.

Incredible location! When we arrived, there were 3 other people already there. There is plenty of room for lots of people. Also if you feel up to it - cross the River for an absolutely hidden and amazing spot.

This spot was great! If you have 4wd you can probably get to the spot down by the river that was just perfect to swim in during a hot day. The upper road can be done with 2wd and there is a flat spot for 3-4 groups. Easy to find and not busy.

Amazing spot to camp for the night. Got there around 7pm and only one other person there. Was on the lower section near the road, despite being closer to the road only heard cars twice during the night.

Don’t forget your bug spray!

Free camping just outside Capitol reef national park. Maybe 5 min drive to the nearest restrooms. Another 5 min driving I to the park and you can find orchards that are free to pick and eat and amazing pies/cinnamon buns at Giffords House! (Go at 8ish. That’s when they get their pie delivery). To find the site, follow the directions listed on the Dyrt and be ready for a quick left or a quick right depending on what direction you’re coming from (use directions to show if it will be on your right or left). We got an amazing spot right next to the river with a great swimming hole. Zero light pollution so the stars were incredible. Drive to the very back of the lower dirt road to get to this spot.

We couldn’t make it down to the portion by the river because of the steep drive and our hitch hauler, but we stayed in the upper portion and it was great! 3 of the lower sites were occupied but we had the upper to ourselves. Very few cars drove by and we could still hear the water and fall asleep star gazing at the amazing sky! Definitely recommend!

Love this sight! The place was empty at 10:00am maybe three people at 6 pm. Hard to spot, but worth the stay. 0.0 phone service. Will be here again

Small spot, but so beautiful next to the river. Not many fire rings so get there early.

With camping on upper and lower portion, we camped on upper portion over looking the stream. Beautiful spot just outside the park!

Great flat spot at the river bend hidden from view with a fire pit and the river a stone’s throw away. Cool down and camp out in style.