About Primitive campsites at Cathedral Campground
It is located approximately halfway on the Cathedral Valley Loop Road. About 36 miles (57.9 km) from the visitor center, this primitive, no-fee campground has 6 sites, each with a picnic table and fire grate. There is a pit toilet, but no water available. The campground is open year-round; however, visitors should check road conditions with the Capitol Reef Visitor Center prior to planning an overnight stay. The campground is at ~7,000 feet (2,133 m) in elevation, No reservations; first-come, first-served.
How to Get There
The campground is located approximately halfway on the Cathedral Valley Loop Road. About 36 miles (57.9 km) from the visitor center. The roads to access the campground are unpaved and typically high clearance two wheel drive. Four wheel drive can be needed depending on conditions. Call 435-425-3791 and follow the prompts for current road conditions.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Primitive campsites at Cathedral Campground
Heading to Primitive campsites at Cathedral Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Primitive campsites at Cathedral Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Primitive campsites at Cathedral Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/258534) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Primitive campsites at Cathedral Campground?
The campground is located approximately halfway on the Cathedral Valley Loop Road. About 36 miles (57.9 km) from the visitor center. The roads to access the campground are unpaved and typically high clearance two wheel drive. Four wheel drive can be needed depending on conditions. Call 435-425-3791 and follow the prompts for current road conditions.
References & Official Resources
