Discover the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic wrinkle on earth!

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.

Two images. Left: pink apple blossoms on a tree branch. Right: Yellow leaves on a tree

Visiting in the Busy Season

Tips for visiting in the busy spring and fall seasons.

A person pointing at a map and a ranger filling out a form at a desk.

Do I need a permit or reservation?

Permits are required for certain activities, like canyoneering, rock climbing, backpacking, group activities, commercial tours, and others.

Three hikers sitting on rocks overlooking a vast landscape of rock and cliffs.

Things To Do

There are many ways to experience Capitol Reef!

RVs, tents, cars, and vans in a green, shaded campground, with some fall colors.

Camping

With one developed campground, two primitive campgrounds, and vast backcountry options, there are many places to stay the night in the park.

A map of southern Utah

Visiting parks in southern Utah?

Learn more about permits, shuttles, and reservations for nearby parks.

A hiker standing under Hickman Natural Bridge

Geology

Learn about the geologic processes that created the Waterpocket Fold.

Night skies in Capitol Reef National Park

International Dark Sky Park

Discover Capitol Reef's dark night skies.

Green and blue tent with a light inside set up at night, with dark skies and a full moon above.

Backpacking in Capitol Reef

A free backpacking permit is required before starting your overnight adventure.

Park staff removing graffiti with water and brushes

Leave No Trace

Help protect the park.

Black and white long-haired dog with a woman walking it and another dog on a leash.

Pets

Where can you take your pet in Capitol Reef National Park?

Three furry marmots in brown dirt all looking the same direction.

Nature & Science

Discover the natural resources protected within Capitol Reef National Park.

Watercolor painting of red cliffs and snow-covered mountain with blue sky.

Women of Capitol Reef

Women explorers, pioneers, and artists have all played a role in Capitol Reef. Discover their stories!

Stone steps on a hiking trail.

Your Fee Dollars at Work

Discover how your recreation fee dollars are used for park improvements, such as trail work, signage, and renovations.

Last updated: January 18, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

HC 70, Box 15
Torrey, UT 84775

Phone:

435-425-3791
Recorded park information available 24 hours a day. Phones are answered when staff is available. If no one answers, please leave a message, your call will be returned. Questions may also be sent to care_information@nps.gov.

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