Fruita Campground Overview
Located in south-central Utah in the heart of red rock country, Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden treasure filled with cliffs, canyons, domes and bridges in the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth) extending almost 100 miles (160 km). The Fruita Campground has 71 sites. 65 sites are reservable year round- there are no longer first come, first serve sites any time of year. Sites 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8 are used as administrative sites. Sites 14, 24, and 63 are accessible sites with electrical hookups. While Loop C is closed in the winter season, generators are allowed in Loops A & B during generator hours. The rest of the year, generators are only allowed in Loop C.
Recreation
Walk to historic inscriptions on the Capitol Gorge Trail and stroll the Goosenecks Trail or longer trails such as Cohab Canyon, Chimney Rock, and Cassidy Arch. Check out our Trail Guide to explore your options.
Enjoy the geology and view the Fremont Culture Petroglyphs along Hwy 24. In addition, the Scenic Drive will introduce you to the fascinating cultural and geological history of Capitol Reef National Park. The drive includes a portion of the original road through the Waterpocket Fold. The road passes through parts of the Fruita Historic District and follows the western faces of the Waterpocket Fold, and spur roads allow exploration into beautiful Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge.
Check at the Visitor Center for a current schedule of interpretive programs, which may include geology talks, Fremont culture talks, evening programs, star gazing, moonwalks, and geology hikes. Stop in at Ripple Rock Nature Center to experience interactive exhibits, games, activities, and free educational programs.
Wander through the historic Fruita Orchards and pick fresh fruit when in season. The orchards contain approximately 3,100 trees including cherry, apricot, peach, pear, apple, plum, mulberry, almond, and walnut.
Discover Mormon pioneer history at the historic Gifford Homestead store and museum.
Facilities
Walk to historic inscriptions on the Capitol Gorge Trail and stroll the Goosenecks Trail or longer trails such as Cohab Canyon, Chimney Rock, and Cassidy Arch. Check out our Trail Guide to explore your options.
Enjoy the geology and view the Fremont Culture Petroglyphs along Hwy 24. In addition, the Scenic Drive will introduce you to the fascinating cultural and geological history of Capitol Reef National Park. The drive includes a portion of the original road through the Waterpocket Fold. The road passes through parts of the Fruita Historic District and follows the western faces of the Waterpocket Fold, and spur roads allow exploration into beautiful Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge.
Check at the Visitor Center for a current schedule of interpretive programs, which may include geology talks, Fremont culture talks, evening programs, star gazing, moonwalks, and geology hikes. Stop in at Ripple Rock Nature Center to experience interactive exhibits, games, activities, and free educational programs.
Wander through the historic Fruita Orchards and pick fresh fruit when in season. The orchards contain approximately 3,100 trees including cherry, apricot, peach, pear, apple, plum, mulberry, almond, and walnut.
Discover Mormon pioneer history at the historic Gifford Homestead store and museum.
Natural Features
The Fruita Campground area is located one mile south of the visitor center and is often described as an oasis within the desert. Fruita Campground is a semi-shaded, grassy campground and is located in the Fruita Historic District of the park.contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (435) 425-3791.Nearby Attractions
The Fruita campground is adjacent to the Fremont River and is a short walk from the group site, amphitheater, picnic areas, hiking trails, the historic Gifford house and orchards.Directions to Campground
Traveling westbound on Interstate 70: Take Utah State Highway 24 west towards Hanksville (exit 149). Stay on Highway 24 for 80 miles (129 km) to reach the park Visitor Center.Traveling on Interstate 15: Take US Highway 50 east at Scipio (exit 188) towards Salina for 30 miles (48 km). At the junction with Utah State Highway 89/259, turn right (south) and travel 8 miles (13 km). Turn left (east) onto Utah State Highway 24 towards Sigurd. Continue on Highway 24 for 82 miles (132 km) to reach the park Visitor Center.