Campground

Backcountry Camping

Campground

Backcountry camping at Capitol Reef is for serious backpackers seeking complete solitude in remote canyon country. Free permits (required) are available at the visitor center. There are no designated campsites, facilities, or amenities—you are entirely self-sufficient. Multiple hiking and backpacking routes wind through Capitol Reef's rugged landscape; this is genuine wilderness camping.

Quick facts

Reservation System
Walk-up permits at visitor center
Reservation Window
Obtain free permit at visitor center before your trip
Reservation Tips
Call visitor center (435-425-3791) to confirm backcountry permit procedures and current conditions. Permits are free and available year-round at the visitor center.
Season Dates
Year-round (permit availability subject to conditions)

Reservations & season

Reservation System
Walk-up permits at visitor center
Reservation Window
Obtain free permit at visitor center before your trip
Reservation Tips
Call visitor center (435-425-3791) to confirm backcountry permit procedures and current conditions. Permits are free and available year-round at the visitor center.
Season Dates
Year-round (permit availability subject to conditions)
Fills Up Speed
Not applicable—walk-up permits
Per Night Cost
Free (permit required)
Passes Accepted
America the Beautiful Pass covers park entrance; backcountry permit is free

Sites & RV fit

Sites Total
Unlimited dispersed backcountry sites
Site Types
Dispersed backcountry camping
Site Type Breakdown
All dispersed backcountry—no designated or developed sites
RV Max Length
0 feet (RVs not permitted)
Group Sites Available
0
Hookups
None—backcountry only
Site Features
Natural ground only. No amenities provided. Campers must be self-sufficient for water, fire (if permitted), and food storage.
Ground Type
Rock, dirt, sand, slickrock—varies by location
Site Privacy
Complete solitude—remote wilderness, no neighbors

Facilities

Potable Water
Not provided—must filter or treat water from natural sources
Trash Service
Pack out all trash—no dumpsters
Firewood Availability
Unknown—verify fire restrictions and gathering rules at visitor center
Cell Service
Unreliable—download offline maps before trip
Nearby Facilities
Torrey, UT (nearest town with lodging, supplies, restaurants, gas—approximately 10–15 miles from visitor center)

Access

Road Type
Varies by backpacking route
Road Conditions
Varies by route—some trailheads require high-clearance vehicle access
Vehicle Restrictions
Vehicles permitted to trailhead only; backcountry camping is hiking/backpacking only
Clearance Needed
High Clearance (for some trailhead access roads)
Gate Hours
Park open 24 hours; visitor center hours vary (call 435-425-3791)
Distance From Entrance
Varies by route; visitor center in Torrey, UT
Nearest Gas Services
Torrey, UT (nearest town with services)
Elevation
5,000–6,000 feet (varies by route)
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible—backcountry camping requires hiking access only
ADA Accessible Sites
None—backcountry camping only

Rules & safety

Bear Country
Yes
Food Storage Requirements
Hang food 10 feet high or use bear-proof food canisters—Capitol Reef is bear country
Fire Restrictions
unknown—check NPS regulations at visitor center
Pet Restrictions
Not permitted in wilderness backcountry areas
Alcohol Permitted
0

What it is like

Onsite Activities
Backpacking, hiking, wildlife observation
Trailheads Nearby
Multiple backpacking routes throughout Capitol Reef backcountry
Wildlife Viewing
Mule deer, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, and bears—maintain 100-yard distance from bears and wolves
Shade Coverage
Minimal—mostly open desert and exposed canyon walls
Scenic Views
Capitol Reef formations, red rock canyons, narrow slot canyons, natural arches
Noise Level
Silent—no traffic or crowds
Best Time To Visit
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer mild temperatures and clear skies; avoid peak summer heat
Vibe Check
Remote wilderness solitude with zero crowds or amenities. This is serious backcountry for experienced hikers only. Expect silent canyon camps, rugged terrain, and complete self-sufficiency. No parking-lot vibes here—just pristine red rock and genuine wilderness.
Camp Here If Skip If
✅ BOOK IF: You're an experienced backpacker seeking complete solitude in canyon country and are comfortable navigating without cell service. ❌ SKIP IF: You need water spigots, showers, amenities, or are new to wilderness camping.
Tips Advice
  • Obtain free permit at visitor center before departure—required for all backcountry camping
  • Bring detailed topographic maps; cell service is unreliable
  • Filter or treat all water from natural sources—no potable water provided
  • Hang food 10 feet high or use bear canisters—this is bear country
  • Camp away from water sources and established trails (Leave No Trace)
  • Start early to maximize daylight; know your route beforehand
  • Inform someone of your itinerary and expected return
  • Pack out all trash—no waste collection

More details

Park Area
Capitol Reef Backcountry
Family Friendly Notes
Not suitable for families with young children or inexperienced campers. Requires serious backpacking skills, navigation ability, and complete self-sufficiency. No water, shelter, or rescue nearby.
Nearby Attractions
Cathedral Valley, Scenic Drive viewpoints, Temple of the Sun and Moon, Waterpocket District, Capitol Dome
Terrain Type
Rugged canyon country with slickrock, narrow washes, and red rock formations
Temperature Ranges
Summer highs 80–90°F; winter lows 30–40°F at elevation; spring/fall mild
Snow Season
Possible at higher elevations December–February
Monsoon Season
July–September monsoon season brings afternoon thunderstorms
Wind Exposure
High exposure in open canyon areas and ridges
Setup Strategy
Dispersed camping only—select campsites using Leave No Trace principles. No infrastructure means you must pack and prepare everything in advance: water filtration system, fire-building materials (if permitted), bear-proof food storage, detailed maps, and navigation tools. Camp away from water sources, trails, and wildlife corridors.
Bath Laundry Recon
None—backcountry only. Plan for stream bathing (filter water first) and pack out all hygiene waste. No showers or laundry facilities.
Review Summary
Backcountry camping at Capitol Reef appeals to experienced backpackers seeking complete solitude and wilderness adventure. The remote canyon landscape and minimal crowds make it ideal for those willing to be entirely self-sufficient with water, food storage, and navigation.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit?

Yes, a free backcountry permit is required and available at the visitor center.

Are there designated campsites?

No—backcountry camping is dispersed throughout remote areas. You select your own site following Leave No Trace principles.

Where do I get water?

Natural sources only (Fremont River, springs, washes). You must filter or treat all water. No potable water is provided.

Are bears a concern?

Yes, Capitol Reef is bear country. Maintain a 100-yard distance from bears and wolves. Hang food 10 feet high or use bear-proof canisters.

What's the best time to visit?

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer mild temperatures and clear skies. Summer brings intense heat; winter brings possible snow at higher elevations.

Can I bring my RV or trailer?

No—backcountry camping is hiking and backpacking only. Vehicles are permitted to trailheads only.

Will I have cell service?

No—cell service is unreliable or nonexistent. Download offline maps before your trip and inform someone of your itinerary.

Group Campsite

Group-only site for up to 40. $125/night, seasonal near Fruita Campground.

Sources

  • YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.