Primitive campsites at Cedar Mesa Campground
The Quick Take
Cedar Mesa is Capitol Reef's off-the-grid option, and that is entirely the point. Tucked along the Notom-Bullfrog Road about 23 miles south of the highway, this tiny primitive campground sits at 5,500 feet on the park's quieter eastern flank, well removed from the Fruita Campground crowds. With only a handful of sites, a pit toilet, and absolutely no water, this is camping stripped to its essentials. The trade-off is real: you give up every modern convenience, including pavement for the last stretch of road, in exchange for genuine solitude beneath some of the darkest skies in Utah. The Waterpocket Fold geology here is spectacular and largely yours alone. This campground belongs to self-sufficient campers who consider "no fee" and "no neighbors" equally compelling features.
Booking
Reserve Your Campsite
All 5 sites are reservable.
What You Get
Sites & Setup
RV Information
RVs allowed. No electrical hookups.
Accessibility
Accessible restrooms available. Terrain is uneven bare ground and rocks. Unpaved Roads - 4WD/High clearance required
Pro Tips
The Notom-Bullfrog Road turns to dirt after about 15 miles and conditions change fast, especially after rain. Call the Capitol Reef Visitor Center at 435-425-3791 before you commit to the drive. A high-clearance vehicle is not optional here -- sedans and low-slung crossovers will regret the attempt.
With no water anywhere nearby, pack at least two gallons per person per day, plus extra for cooking and cleanup. The nearest reliable water and fuel are back in Torrey or at the Fruita area, so top off everything before you turn south.
These five sites are first-come, first-served and free, which sounds easy until you realize that arriving mid-afternoon on a fall weekend could mean all five are taken. Aim for a weekday visit or arrive before noon on weekends during spring and fall to claim your spot.
Photos
NPSGetting There
Directions
The campground is located approximately 23 miles (37.0 km) south of Utah State Highway 24 on the Notom-Bullfrog Road and is at 5,500 feet (1,676 m) in elevation. The Notom-Bullfrog Road is paved for approximately 15 miles south of the highway then it turns to dirt. The road condition varies and a high clearance vehicle is usually needed. Call 435-425-3791 and follow the prompts for current road conditions.
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