Group Campsite
Closed — Closed for the season. The Group Campsite operates from mid-April through mid-October and is closed every Tuesday and Wednesday night for maintenance during the operating season. Reservations available via Recreation.gov on a 12-month rolling basis.
Special Use Permits
Special Use Permits are typically needed for activities that benefit a specific group. Examples include: Groups of 40 or more, trips organized by scouting groups, churches, or academic institutions, photography, weddings, and first amendment activities
Annual/Seasonal Canyon Closures
The following are closed to entry through 8/31/2025 to protect sensitive resources: the heads of Burro Wash & Fivemile Wash descending east 2 miles, Shinob Canyon + routes descending into Shinob, including Na-gah, Nighthawk, & Timpie.
Monsoon Season & Flash Floods
Heavy rains can cause sudden flooding, especially in canyons and washes. Do not drive or hike through flood waters. Get to high ground and wait for floods to subside. Some roads may close temporarily; closures are posted at the visitor center.
No Fruit Available in Orchards
Due to an abnormally early spring bloom, followed by a hard freeze, this year's crop was lost. There is no fruit available to pick this year.
About
The Capitol Reef Group Campsite is a secluded, semi-shaded camping area located in the heart of the Fruita Historic District, approximately one mile south of the visitor center. Set among large deciduous trees with striking red rock cliffs as a backdrop, the site sits adjacent to the Fremont River at 5,500 feet elevation and is surrounded by the park's unique historic orchards. The site features a large grassy area suitable for group activities and tent camping, sheltered picnic areas, a fire pit for evening gatherings, and an above-ground grill. Amenities include restrooms with flush toilets, a utility sink, drinking fountain, and potable water faucets. The site can accommodate a maximum of 40 people and 10 vehicles. The location provides easy access to the main Fruita Campground amenities including the amphitheater, hiking trails like Capitol Gorge and Cohab Canyon, the historic Gifford Homestead, and seasonal fruit picking in the orchards. The group site offers an excellent base for exploring Capitol Reef's geologic wonder, the Waterpocket Fold, and experiencing the park's dark skies.
Directions
From Interstate 70 westbound: Take Utah Highway 24 west at exit 149 towards Hanksville. Continue 80 miles to the park Visitor Center. From Interstate 15: Take US Highway 50 east at Scipio (exit 188) towards Salina for 30 miles. Turn right onto Utah Highway 89/259 and travel south 8 miles. Turn left onto Utah Highway 24 towards Sigurd and continue 82 miles to the park Visitor Center. The Group Campsite is located one mile south of the visitor center near Loop C of Fruita Campground.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | Yes |
| Price | $125 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 27ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| care_information@nps.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (435) 425-3791 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| Reservations |
Photos
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