Regulations

You can help preserve the park's unique features and landscapes by knowing and adhering to these basic regulations. More policies, such as the Superintendent's Compendium, can be found on the Laws & Policies page.

Camping
Camping or sleeping in your vehicle overnight is not allowed anywhere except at designated campgrounds. Camping is allowed in the Fruita Campground or the two primitive campgrounds of Cathedral Valley Campground, and Cedar Mesa Campground. Food items must be stored in a vehicle or an animal-proof hard-sided container at all times unless being prepared or consumed. Wood gathering is not permitted in the park. Firewood is available for purchase seasonally at the Gifford House or local stores. Please see all campground regulations.

Off-Highway Vehicles
The use of off-highway vehicle (ATV's, OHV, UTV's, etc.) is not allowed within the boundary of Capitol Reef National Park. This includes all paved and unpaved roads within the park. There are many roads for these types of vehicles located on public land administered by the Bureau of Land Management. Motorcycles designed, equipped, and licensed for highway use are not included in this restriction.

On public lands outside of Capitol Reef you must stay on roads and established routes. Cross-country travel is only allowed in designated OHV areas in order to protect living biological soil crust which prevents erosion and sustains plant growth throughout the reef.

Pets
Activities with pets are very limited at Capitol Reef. You may walk your pets on roads, the picnic area, campground, in parking lots or areas specified on the pets page, but they must be on a 6-foot or less leash at all times when outside a vehicle. Pets are not permitted on other hiking trails, in public buildings, or in the backcountry. You may not leave your pets unattended (except in a paid-for campsite in the Fruita Campground, where they must not cause a disturbance).

Unmanned Aircraft (Drones)
The use of unmanned aircraft like drones is not allowed in the park. This is to protect public safety, minimize visitor-use conflicts, and prevent unacceptable impact to scenic values, natural soundscapes, and wildlife. Please see the superintendent's compendium in the Laws & Policies page.

Rock Scratches = Graffiti
Graffiti is prohibited in Capitol Reef. Rangers and volunteers will still spend many hours every year removing scratches and drawings on the rocks of the park. Please join us in protecting the park by leaving no trace. If you discover graffiti in the park, please let us know. Otherwise, make memories, take pictures, but leave only footprints of your visit.

Artificial Light Sources
Capitol Reef is designated as an International Dark Sky park. Night photography is a great way to enjoy the park, but please note that using artificial light sources to light up landscapes, rock formations, or other park features is prohibited. Artificial light sources may be used for personal route-finding or minimum impact camping only. Learn how you can help preserve the night sky of Capitol Reef.

Backpacking
In order to overnight backpack in Capitol Reef, you must obtain a free backcountry permit at the visitor center. Group size maximum is 12 people, but we recommend smaller groups to reduce impacts. Permits are issued during visitor center hours and may not be reserved in advance. Learn all the regulations on how to backpack responsibly and safely.

Canyoneering
Canyoneering is an adventure sport using climbing equipment for rappels and other technical descents through canyons. Permits are required and can be picked up at the self registration kiosk at the front of the visitor center. It is the responsibility of all canyoneers to know and obey they park canyoneering regulations.

Rock Climbing and Bouldering
The steep cliffs and canyons at Capitol Reef offer excellent climbing opportunities, despite its sandy origins. Most climbing routes in the park require advanced techniques. Permits are required for climbing and bouldering. Free day-use permits can be obtained in person at the visitor center or via email. Additional permits will be required for trips involving canyoneering or an overnight stay in the backcountry. It is the responsibility of all climbers to know and obey the park regulations. Visit the rock climbing and bouldering page for information regarding specific closures and restrictions.

Firearms
Using firearms is prohibited in the park. However, people who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws may legally possess firearms in this park. You must understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearms laws before entering the park. Firearms are prohibited in all federal buildings. Read more about firearms regulations in national parks.

Hunting
Hunting is prohibited in Capitol Reef National Park. All wildlife lawfully taken outside the park and transported through the park must be tagged in accordance with state law, with the license and hunter present. Please see the Superintendent's Compendium on the Laws and Policies page for all hunting regulations.

Orchards
Orchards preserve the remnants of the pioneering community of Fruita, settled in 1880. Woven wire fenced orchards with locked gates are closed to public entry when locked. Visitors may enter unfenced orchards and those open for harvesting, with the gates unlocked.

To experience picking fruit like the pioneer days, visit the orchards page.

Permits and Reservations
Some activities like weddings, large group outings, commercial filming, guided tours, may require permits. The Fruita Campground and Group Campsite require reservations. Read more about how to obtain permits and reservations for your experience at Capitol Reef.