Are you thinking or planning on visiting Capitol Reef this year? Not very many people know where the best place to stay is, but in this article we’ll cover some good options!

Especially if you’re doing a Mighty 5 Utah National Parks trip like I did, it’s hard to go through all of the hotel options near every park. That’s why I wrote this article: to take some of the load off your shoulders.

Where you stay will depend on what kind of traveler you are. There’s hotel options and camping options, with something for everyone. Here, I’ll list what are (in my opinion) the best options.

Hotels Near Capitol Reef

Most hotel accommodations are located in the small town of Torrey, Utah, which sits just minutes from the park entrance. Staying here gives you easy access to restaurants, gas stations, and some incredible views of the red rock cliffs.

1. Capitol Reef Resort

If you’re looking for a unique place to stay, this resort is one of the most popular options near the park. They offer standard hotel rooms, cabins, and even luxury glamping options like covered wagons and teepees. This is where I stay with the company that I work for when I’m guiding national park tours. Capitol Reef Resort a great choice if you want something memorable while still having modern amenities, and it’s a really comfortable place to stay.

2. Skyview Hotel

Skyview hotel is known for its floor-to-ceiling windows and incredible views of the surrounding desert landscape. It’s a great option for couples or travelers who want a peaceful and scenic place to relax after exploring the park.

I’ve never stayed here but there’s more information on their website.

3. Red Sands Hotel

Another great choice in Torrey, Red Sands Hotel offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and an on-site restaurant. It’s another solid option if you want something reliable and convenient near the park.

Camping in Capitol Reef

If you prefer to stay closer to nature, camping is one of the best ways to experience Capitol Reef. The park has a few campground options, including one that sits right inside the park. I’ve never camped at any of the National Parks (a shame, I know) but I have a lot of friends and family who have, and I’ve heard a lot of good things about it!

1. Fruita Campground

This is the main campground inside the park and one of the most scenic places you can stay. It’s located in the historic Fruita district, surrounded by orchards and red cliffs. Sites fill up quickly, especially during spring and fall, so reservations are highly recommended.

2. Cathedral Valley Campground

For a more remote experience, this small primitive campground is located in the northern part of the park. It’s best for travelers with high-clearance vehicles who want to explore the more “rugged” landscapes of Cathedral Valley.

3. Cedar Mesa Campground

This is another primitive campground located in the southern section of the park near the Waterpocket Fold. It’s quiet, remote, and more for campers looking for solitude.

For more information about camping at Capitol Reef, you can look at their website.

Tips for Choosing Where to Stay

• Book early: Capitol Reef is becoming more popular every year, especially during spring and fall. Even though it’s still on the less-busy side when compared to the other national parks in Utah, it’s still good to get to booking your stays early- especially if you’re wanting to stay somewhere specific.
• Stay in Torrey for convenience: It’s the closest town and makes entering the park easy. Unless you’re planning on camping in the park, this is really the best option. There’s also lots of fun things to do in Torrey when you’re not in the park.
• Camp if you want the full experience: Capitol Reef National Park is a National Dark Sky Reserve, making stargazing incredible. You can see the milky way on clear nights. If you love camping, you’re probably already planning on camping at the park, but if not, you’ve got to check it out! (Keep in mind that some campgrounds are closed during the winter months.)

Thanks for reading! Make sure to check out all of the other content I have on the Utah National Parks and follow my instagram for daily information on traveling to Utah.