Explore Capitol Reef National Park.

Ready to plan the perfect trip to Capitol Reef National Park?

Then you’ve come to the right place!

Hi, I’m Natalie, and I am a national parks-obsessed mom who has compiled all of the details, itineraries, dining guides, and hiking information for a memorable family vacation to Utah’s Capitol Reef National Park.

This incredible (and remote) place centers around the beautiful Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long geological formation caused by a buckle in the Earth’s surface about 80 million years ago.

Whether you need to know the best place to camp nearby or what kind of rental vehicle is best for your visit, I’ve got your covered.

I only write about places I’ve been and experiences that I’ve had, so you’re getting up-to-date advice from a parent who has been there.

Capitol Reef at a glance

  • Covers 243,900 acres

  • One of Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks

  • Best known for its fresh pies, pioneer village, and remote location

  • The least visited national park in Utah

Start here.

If you only read one of my Capitol Reef posts, make it this one.

This Capitol Reef National Park with kids guide shares everything you could possibly think about when planning a vacation here from where to stay to where to pick up your Junior Ranger booklets.

Camping

While Capitol Reef National Park does have a front country campground and 2 backcountry primitive campgrounds, I recommend that you stay in nearby Torrey, Utah.


You’ll have more options for dining, and you’ll be able to book an RV site, tent site, or cabin at the clean, welcoming, and kid-friendly Thousand Lakes RV Park.

Views of the Waterpocket Fold from the author's site
The author's children at the Thousand Lakes RV Park near Capitol Reef
Front of the cabins at Thousand Lakes RV Park

Capitol Reef Must Haves

  • GuideAlong Audio Tour

    We LOVE these inexpensive but excellent tours for our national parks visits. Purchase the Capitol Reef National Park GuideAlong Audio Tour to learn about the park’s history, geology, wildlife, and important figures as you drive.

    It doesn’t need wifi after you’ve downloaded the tour, and it starts and stops automatically as you approach areas of interest!

  • Hiking Shoes

    Capitol Reef is best seen outside of the car, so, bring the proper footwear for hikes in the park.

    I swear by my Altra Timp Trail Runners, which are lightweight and sturdy.

    I also love my Keen Newport H2 hiking sandals, but only bring these if you’re visiting Capitol Reef in the warmer months.

  • AllTrails + National Park Pass

    Do not go to any of the Utah national parks without this incredible deal!

    For just a few dollars more than the cost of a regular NPS annual pass, you can get an annual AllTrail subscription and your national parks pass bundle.

    Now, you’re ready to hit the trail and explore the parks!

  • Garmin InReach Mini

    I never go hiking without this tiny GPS attached to my pack.

    Since I’m often hiking alone with my kids, the Garmin InReach gives me peace of mind that we could get help quickly if one of them (or me!) got hurt or sick on the trail.

    Capitol Reef has no little cell reception in or around the park, but you can always reach help with this unit.

  • Rental Car

    There’s no public transportation within or to Capitol Reef, and you’re going to want the flexibility of your own vehicle while exploring the park.

    Check for the best rates at RentalCars.com with convenient pick-up options at all area airports. Choose a Jeep or other high clearance vehicle if you’re planning to visit the Cathedral Valley area.

  • Travel Insurance

    Visiting the Utah national parks is a trip of a lifetime, and you don’t want to let sickness or flight delays to ruin your trip.

    Be sure to secure travel insurance from Visitors Coverage before you leave, and you’ll be ready for whatever life throws at you.

Other Helpful Resources

  • Best RV Camping in the Utah National Parks

    Read more

  • Utah Mighty 5 National Parks with Kids: Itinerary and Tips

    Click Here

  • The Ultimate Utah to Arizona Road Trip Itinerary

    Click Here