In short
- Camp for free at the primitive site halfway through the loop.
- Backcountry camping requires a free permit from the park.
- Bring all your own water; no potable water is available.
In this article
Spending the night in Capitol Reef's Cathedral Valley district breaks up the 57.6-mile (92.7 km) loop. You need a high-clearance 4WD vehicle and all your own supplies to safely camp in this remote basin.
Where is the Cathedral Valley Campground?
The designated primitive campground sits halfway through the driving loop.
The site sits at an elevation of 7,000 feet (2,133 m). It is a free, primitive camping area with pit toilets. There is no potable water available. You must bring plenty of drinking water for your stay. Pack warm clothing layers, as temperatures drop drastically at night.
Do I need a permit for backcountry camping?
Yes, you need a free permit to camp in the backcountry.
Driving the loop requires no fees or permits. However, overnight backcountry camping requires a free permit. Vehicles must stay on designated roads at all times. Off-road driving is strictly prohibited to protect the desert.
What should I pack for a Cathedral Valley camping trip?
You must pack enough supplies for total self-sufficiency.
- Plenty of drinking water
- Extra food, snacks, and emergency supplies
- Warm clothing layers
- A shovel and basic vehicle recovery gear
- Printed or downloaded offline topographic maps
Are dogs allowed at Cathedral Valley campsites?
Pets have strict restrictions within Capitol Reef National Park.
Pets are not permitted on trails or in off-trail backcountry areas. Their movements are highly restricted. Check park rules before bringing an animal on an overnight trip.
Can I do night photography in Cathedral Valley?
Yes, you can take photos, but light painting is banned.
The remote valley offers dark skies for photography. However, light painting is not permitted for night photography anywhere in Capitol Reef National Park. Bring your camera, but leave artificial lighting gear behind.
Do I have to camp to see Cathedral Valley?
No, you can complete the loop in a single day.
Driving the full loop takes 6 to 8 hours. You can easily complete it in one day. If you lack a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, book a guided 4x4 tour from Torrey or Hanksville outfitters.
Questions travellers ask
How high is the Cathedral Valley campground?
The primitive campground sits at an elevation of 7,000 feet (2,133 m).
Does the Cathedral Valley loop cost money to drive?
No, there is no entry fee to drive the loop itself, though the main Capitol Reef Scenic Drive costs $20.
Is there water at the Cathedral Valley campground?
No. There is no potable water available anywhere in the Cathedral Valley district. You must bring your own.
