Where to Stay Near Capitol Reef National Park | 12 Best Hotels

As far as open secrets go, everyone knows that Utah is one of the US’ most treasured places for picturesque landscapes and gobsmacking natural wonders. One such place is Capitol Reef National Park, located in the south-central region of Utah.

With an abundance of Utah slot canyons, rock formations, and cliffs, this desert escape also features a 100-mile geologic monocline and a gorgeous scenic route. But before planning an epic Capitol Reef escapade, you’ll need to know where to stay.

Get a load of where to stay near Capitol Reef National Park, one of the best national parks in Utah.

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12 Best Hotels Near Capitol Reef National Park + Camping

So, you’ve settled on your Utah itinerary and feel confident about awesome things to do in Capitol Reef. Next on your to-do list is scouting the best places to stay near Capitol Reef National Park. Here’s your guide, made easy.

1. Capitol Reef National Park Camping

Do one better than lodging near Capitol Reef National Park and embrace in-park camping when you spend a night or two at any of the three campgrounds.

Groups and Individuals | Fruita Campground

Fruita Campground has 71 tent and RV sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Selected sites offer electrical hookups. There’s also a nearby dump, well-equipped restrooms, and access to potable water.

Note: Check availability at the Visitor Center as the campground is often closed during mid-June.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

Couples and Ambitious Campers | Cathedral Valley Campground

Cedar Mesa and Cathedral Valley are no-fee campgrounds, and the latter is the most favored. It’s a small, primitive, first-come, first-served campsite with picnic tables, pit toilets, and fire grates. It’s ideal for couples and ambitious campers who prefer seclusion.

Note: This campsite is over 30 miles from the Visitor Center and requires a high-clearance vehicle.

>>>Find out more here

2. Torrey

Torrey is the closest town to Capitol Reef, only 15 minutes (eight miles) from the park’s western entrance. It’s a modest little nook with quaint restaurants and shops.

Luxury | Skyview Hotel

Skyview Hotel is a unique and comfortable destination with air-conditioned rooms, a garden, a sun terrace, and a hot tub.

The units offer free WiFi, beautifully designed intimate spaces, lush linens and bathroom essentials, and a private bathroom. Book a Skyview Hotel room with a patio for that extra exclusivity.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

Luxury | Red Sands Hotel

It’s all about majestic mountain views and superb amenities at Red Sands Hotel, just three miles from the target US National Park jewel. The proximity makes this Torrey gem one of the most popular hotels near the park.

The units are cozy and spacious, with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, microwaves, minibars, and deluxe bathrooms. You’ll also get the spoils of premium coffee brews from the comfort of your own room.

Guests can use the heated indoor pool, the on-site spa and wellness center, and a hot tub. You’ll find laundry facilities, a bar, and a restaurant.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

Mid-Range | Capitol Reef Resort

Capitol Reef Resort comes highly recommended for places to stay in Torrey, Utah, because it’s located right on Capitol Reef National Park’s edge, near the entrance.

Capitol Reef Resort offers stylish WiFi-enabled accommodations with pretty garden and mountain views. Appreciable conveniences include iPod docking stations, flat-screen TVs, coffee-making facilities, and hairdryers.

This Utah property boasts a hot tub, an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, laundry and barbecue facilities, Conestoga wagons, adorable teepees, and a fitness center.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

3. Green River

Another best place to stay near Capitol Reef National Park is Green River, about 85 miles (1.5 hours) from your desired destination. Travel from Green River to Capitol Reef and scope some fun Moab activities nearby too.

With plenty of cool local food and entertainment spots, this is a winning base for travelers planning a three-in-one Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Capitol Reef roundtrip.

Mid-Range | Skyfall Guestrooms

Skyfall Guestrooms is located in Green River and provides bright, snazzy, mid-range lodging options with cute air-conditioned rooms, modern decor, and WiFi access.

The property has a garden, a restaurant, free private parking, and multiple vantage points of tranquil river vistas. You can start your morning with a sublime breakfast before venturing to the park.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

Budget | Super 8

Don’t let a tight budget and a preference for moderate prices come between you and a comfy stay.

Super 8 is a pet-friendly Wyndham Green River offering where guests enjoy simple yet well-equipped accommodations.

On-site benefits include WiFi, a hot tub, an indoor pool, a free breakfast daily, and housekeeping services.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

4. Salina

Salina is an enticing location with stellar hotels near Capitol Reef National Park, UT, a manageable 74 miles (one hour and 20 minutes) west of Capitol Reef. As the second largest and one of the best cities near the park, consider adding nearby attractions like the Red Hill Hot Springs to your itinerary.

Budget | High Desert Inn

The High Desert Inn is an affordable hotel where guests can relax in comfortable surroundings. Make use of convenient amenities like WiFi, air conditioning, barbecue facilities, and a fitness center while on-site.

On the complimentary side of things, there’s a shuttle service, private parking, free toiletries, and daily housekeeping to make your stay that much sweeter.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

5. Richfield

Richfield delivers more outstanding hotels near Capitol Reef — 67 miles from the park. Drawcards like the Mystic Hot Springs make for tempting nearby attractions.

Mid-Range | Holiday Inn Express Richfield

Choose the pet-friendly Holiday Inn Express Richfield for splendid accommodations adorned with rich, earthy colors and textures that create inviting, homey spaces.

This Utah hotel has an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a gym. Guests can savor daily continental breakfasts featuring pastries, hot meals, and baked eats.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

Budget | Quality Inn Richfield I-70

To keep lodging costs low but the experiences equally satisfactory, cast your eyes toward the Quality Inn Richfield I-70. It’s among the impressive Richfield motels with surprising amenities like a swimming pool, hot tub, and fitness room.

Daily breakfasts, WiFi access, and private parking are included in the price at this Richfield property. You can kick back and soak up the Utah heat on the sun terrace when you’re not exploring the great outdoors offsite.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

6. Escalante

It’ll take an hour and a half to get from Escalante to Capitol Reef. Besides close proximity to Bryce Canyon National Park, another hook to this lively town is its exceptional lodging options. Anyone up for some swanky yurt accommodations?

Luxury | Escalante Yurts

If plush yurt experiences are up your alley, Escalante Yurts will be right on the money for you while visiting Capitol Reef. The well-furnished accommodations are classy, with bespoke touches offering both finesse and supreme relaxation.

Amenities include patios, WiFi, free toiletries for guests, outdoor fireplaces, and the option to throw in a few wellness treatments for a little pampering amidst the mountains.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

Mid-Range | Ponderosa Inn

Ponderosa Inn joins other frontrunners in the list of Escalante properties, serving as a great location for lodging near Capitol Reef National Park. It’s a cabin-style, no-fuss, little-frills option where guests can book air-conditioned rooms with complimentary toiletries and WiFi.

On top of the barbecue facilities, elevate your stay by securing a unit with a kitchen for more of a personalized experience.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

7. Boulder

Boulder Town offers brilliant places to stay near Capitol Reef National Park, only an hour away. This is a biking, hiking, and mountain-climbing haven.

Luxury | Annie’s Place Bed & Breakfast

Annie’s Place in Boulder, Utah, is a luxe bed and breakfast granting guests lovely stays in air-conditioned lodging options with free WiFi and hearty daily breakfasts.

Book a room with garden views and a balcony for stunning mountain backdrops. The sun terrace is a cherished spot to watch sunsets at this Boulder Town belle.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

8. Loa

Loa is located west of Torrey and is the perfect place to rest when you prefer being no more than half an hour from the national park. It’s a quiet place, a remote escape where the go-tos, like shops and restaurants, are nearby.

Mid-Range | The Snuggle Inn 

If the name isn’t a giveaway, then it’s worth confirming that The Snuggle Inn guarantees a cozy stay where the atmosphere is super relaxed. There’s free WiFi, a terrace, and a shared lounge area for socializing.

>>>Check Availability and Book Now

Tips for Visiting Capitol Reef National Park

Many people often forget that the most helpful tidbits when planning a US National Park road trip are the destination-specific tips that ensure you’re amped and well-prepared. Add these five must-knows to your planning notes when gearing up for lodging near Capitol Reef.

1. Get the Capitol Reef debrief at the Visitor Center: As soon as you arrive, your first stop is the park’s Visitor Center for the latest updated info and a map. You’ll need to know which roads are closed, the conditions of the park’s hiking trails, and a few ranger tips.

2. Keep tabs on the temperatures during your visit: Keep your eye on the weather conditions when you visit the park. You don’t want to be under or over-dressed, so ensure you’re prepared for the estimated highs and lows. Generally, you can expect a 62°F to 89°F (17°C to 32°C) range.

3. Plan all your dining beforehand: You’ll need a solid game plan for where to wine and dine nearby, as the park has no restaurants. The following Torrey eateries are popular with visitors:

• La Cueva Restaurante & Bar — Mexican restaurant where the tostadas and quesadillas are to die for
• The Pioneer Kitchen — Serves delectable comfort food at Capitol Reef Resort
• The Rim Rock Patio — Specializing in Italian and Western barbecue grub

4. Make a perfect pet plan: Double-check which park sites and areas are pet-restrictive if you’re traveling with your beloved four-legged furries. Remember to pack your pooch’s favorite leashes and toys.

5. Diversify your Capitol Reef itinerary: Mix it up on the activities front with the famous Scenic Drive, some trekking, and rugged valley explorations. For a detailed guide, check out this Capitol Reef National Park itinerary.

FAQs About Capitol Reef National Park Lodging

Prepared travelers are happy travelers who are seldom caught off guard when visiting a dreamy national park like Capitol Reef. Make that your reality with these quick answers to some frequently asked questions about this destination.

Can You Stay Inside Capitol Reef National Park?

Yes, you can spend a night (or more) inside the park. There are three campgrounds: the larger, developed Fruita Campground and two simpler, isolated campsites. These are Cedar Mesa and Cathedral Valley Campgrounds.

Make camping your lodging choice when Capitol Reef hotels won’t cut it and you’re keen for an authentic in-park stay.

What Is the Closest Town to Capitol Reef National Park?

Torrey is the closest town to the park, located just eight miles (15 minutes) from the park’s western entrance along the Scenic Byway. If you’re looking for easy access, a convenient distance, and charming restaurants, Torrey is where it’s at.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Capitol Reef National Park?

Capitol Reef is one of those US national parks to visit in spring (March – June), thanks to mild temperatures and pleasant conditions. Opt for fall (September – October) or winter (November – February) for fewer crowds.

How Many Days Are Enough in Capitol Reef National Park?

Two to three days are enough to cover the park’s main attractions, largely due to the conditions of the roads. If time, budget, and your unrelenting curiosity allow, add another day to explore Goblin Valley at your own pace.

The Final Word on Capitol Reef Lodging

When the beauty and serenity of Utah calls, add the often-overlooked Capitol Reef to your US National Park checklist. It’s a wonderful place to reconnect with nature and discover unique desert landscapes.

You can tap into your more wild, adventurous, and carefree outdoorsy side by embarking on exciting sightseeing missions. Here, some of the most rewarding Capitol Reef hikes and explorations await.

Now that you know where to stay when visiting Capitol Reef National Park, you can focus your attention on planning the ultimate Utah National Park road trip.

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