SW Utah- Capitol Reef Nat'l Park & Cedar Mesa Campground

Petroglyphs along  HWY 24  in Capitol Reef National Park

  After exploring Capitol Reef National Park for awhile, we checked in at the Visitor's Center to learn about the weather forecast and road conditions.  We orginally wanted to stay at the Cathedral Valley campground, but when we found out the drive would take hours due to severely rough road conditions, we opted to go to Cedar Mesa campground instead.  The Fruita Campground, nearest to the Visitor's Center and all of the popular sights,  is large, green and nice but it is more like you are camping in a big grassy park and there is a lot of traffic and large RV's.  The dear were nice, but we decided that adventure and privacy was what we were after.

Colorful view of a ranch with the waterpocket fold and mountains beyond
along the road to Cedar Mesa

  The drive to Cedar Mesa Campground on Notom Bullfrog road is short, very wash-board-y, and beautiful.  You don't need 4-wheel drive on this road unless there has been recent rain, always check in at the Visitor's Center, because they can inform you of closures due to flash floods.  Be sure to bring plenty of water and firewood with you as Cedar Mesa has only picnic tables, fire rings, and an outhouse, but NO WATER is available and if weather causes road damage, you could be stuck there for longer than you planned.

Chris under the tarp we rigged in case of rain

We were elated to find that we were the only campers upon arrival and were able to pick the best of the 5 spots.  A few of the sites are rather close together with only sparse shrubs and low trees for cover.
The views on all sides are spectacular though, and you are treated to a variety of color schemed based on the time of day.

Eastern ridge and mountains beyond at the beginning of the sunset

Another view to the NE at the beginning of the sunset

The Waterpocket Fold at sunset

    We had a few too many yellow jackets around our campsite, but we were determined to have a great time and enjoy the beauty and serenity. Delicious food, good beer, a nice fire, a snuggly bed, and each other were all we needed to have an excellent anniversary. We spent 4 days at Cedar Mesa, exploring, chilling and enjoying the solitude.

  The next installment will cover the drive from Cedar Mesa campground to Boulder, Utah.