Hikers exploring Capitol Reef's remote southern section use Cedar Mesa Campground as their base for accessing Red Canyon Trail and the Waterpocket Fold formations. This primitive campground sits along the Notom-Bullfrog Road, requiring about an hour of dirt road driving from the main park area to reach its five first-come, first-served sites.
Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table, with a vault toilet serving the entire campground. Campers must bring their own water and firewood, as none are available on-site. The sites spread across open terrain with sagebrush and red rock views, and the northernmost site offers the most secluded positioning. Memorial Day weekend typically sees all sites occupied by early afternoon, according to visitor reports.
The campground serves as the trailhead for Red Canyon Trail, where hikers can spot desert bighorn sheep among the colorful rock formations. "No water, bring your own wood, and a pit toilet," notes Pat S., summarizing the essential preparations needed. The location also provides access to Upper and Lower Muley Twist trails and various canyon washes for exploration.
Road conditions vary from washboard surfaces to occasional larger potholes, making the drive manageable for most vehicles but requiring extra time. The remote setting delivers minimal light pollution for stargazing, though some sites may have bee activity during warmer months. This campground works well for self-sufficient campers prioritizing trail access over amenities.
Description
It is located approximately 23 miles (37.0 km) south of Utah State Highway 24 on the Notom-Bullfrog Road and is at 5,500 feet (1,676 m) in elevation. This primitive, no-fee campground has five sites, each with a picnic table and fire grate. There is also a pit toilet, but no water is available. The campground is open year-round, but visitors should check with the Capitol Reef Visitor Center for road conditions prior to planning an overnight stay. No reservations; first-come, first-served.
Reservation Info
No reservations; first-come, first-served.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCedar Mesa Campground — Capitol Reef National Park is located in Utah
Directions
The campground is located approximately 23 miles (37.0 km) south of Utah State Highway 24 on the Notom-Bullfrog Road and is at 5,500 feet (1,676 m) in elevation. The Notom-Bullfrog Road is paved for approximately 15 miles south of the highway then it turns to dirt. The road condition varies and a high clearance vehicle is usually needed. Call 435-425-3791 and follow the prompts for current road conditions.
Coordinates
38.0073 N
111.0846 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Toilets
- Alcohol
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Cedar Mesa Campground — Capitol Reef National Park needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 19 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 3 hrs 41 min from Provo, UT
- 4 hrs 7 min from St. George, UT
- 5 hrs 8 min from Farmington, NM
