Picnic
Picnic
It's a picnic. Find a table, eat, leave. Two areas: Doc Inglesby (close, usually crowded, water if you're lucky) and Capitol Gorge (remote, pit toilet, no water). Bring lunch or grab Gifford House pie. Works year-round if you handle Capitol Reef's weather—brutal summer heat, freezing winters, spring wind.
Historic Fruita District with working orchards and on-site Gifford House offering homemade pie
Quick facts
- Duration
- 30 minutes, 1–2 hours
- From price
- $20
- Group style
- Any size—individuals to large groups; tables accommodate various configurations
- Cancellation
- No cancellation policy—no advance reservation required. Walk-in onl…
- Meeting point
- Doc Inglesby Picnic Area or Capitol Gorge Picnic Area parking lots
✓ Book this if…
- You want an inexpensive, hassle-free meal break during park visit with family or friends.
- Families on a budget, anyone seeking a scenic meal break during park visit, casual picnickers, budget-conscious travelers
× Skip it if…
- You expect amenities beyond picnic tables and pit toilets, or extreme heat/cold will ruin your day.
- None specific to picnicking. High altitude (5,500 ft) and summer heat may affect some visitors; shade and water mitigate.
- Open year-round. Best April–May and Sept–Oct (60s–70s°F, sunny). Summer June–Aug peaks 80s–100s°F. Winter Dec–Feb dips to 20s–40s°F. Spring windstorms common Marc…
Before you book
Is there reliable water and restrooms?
Water at Doc Inglesby is seasonal and unreliable—call the Visitor Center first (435–425–3791). Capitol Gorge has pit toilets but no water. Bring your own water.
Can we bring kids and pets?
Yes to both. Kids enjoy the grassy lawn at Doc Inglesby. Leashed pets allowed in picnic areas.
Do we need a reservation?
No, walk-in only. Arrive early in peak season (April–May, Sept–Oct) to secure a shaded spot.
Is Gifford House pie always available?
No—seasonal hours and often sells out by afternoon in peak season. Not guaranteed. Call Visitor Center for hours.
Which picnic area should we choose?
Doc Inglesby for convenience and amenities (close to Visitor Center, water, restrooms). Capitol Gorge for quiet and to combine with a hike.
