FAQ

Can anybody use the station?

No. Field station guests must be participating in an appropriate activity that has been approved by our staff and scheduled via our online reservation process.. See examples of appropriate use.

How long does it take to get from UVU to CRFS?

It is almost 200 miles one-way, plan on 3.75 hours.

What is the average seasonal temperature?

Spring (Mar-May) is variable with highs between 45-80F. It may be somewhat windy and the average rainfall is 0.55 inches/month.

Summer (June-Aug) day temperatures are usually in the 90sF and rarely exceed 100F. Lows average around 55F. Monsoon afternoon rains occur during this time with the average rainfall being 0.88 inches/month.

Fall (Sept-Nov) is pleasant with high temperatures between 50-70F and average lows around 42F. Average rainfall is 0.68 inches/month.

Winter (Dec-Feb) is filled with clear days and colder temperatures ranging between 30-40F during the day and nighttime temperatures in the teens. Precipitation occurs mostly as snow, which usually evaporates or melts within a few days of falling. Average precipitation is 0.29 inches/month.

What is the elevation at the field station?

6,050 ft. or 1,843 m

Are there beds and showers?

Yes. Our two dorms each have four bedrooms complete with beds and a private bathroom with showers, shared by up to four people. You will need to bring your own bedding (sleeping bag or set of sheets), pillows, towels, and toiletries.

Can we have our own room?

Students are expected to share rooms. If possible, we accommodate Instructors with their own room.

Do we cook our own food?

Yes. A full kitchen is available with gas oven/range/griddle, propane barbeque grill, microwave, coffee maker, refrigerators, freezer, pots, pans, plates, cups, serving utensils, crock pot, etc. Most groups utilize our full kitchen.

There are local businesses that will cater at the station with advance notice. Please contact the caterers directly with any questions.

Do you have meal planning resources?

Where is the nearest grocery store?

A seasonal general store with groceries in Torrey operates spring, summer, and fall. A year round grocery store operates in Loa, 40 miles (1 hour) from the station.

Where is the nearest restaurant?

There are various dining options in the town of Torrey

Where is the nearest medical facility?

There is a medical clinic in Bicknell, about 32 miles (almost 1 hour) from the station. The closest hospital is in Richfield, approximately 2 hours from the field station. With this in mind, safety is of paramount importance at CRFS.

Can I do laundry at CRFS?

No. The closest laundromat is in the nearby town of Torrey, about 20 miles (45 minutes) from the field station.

What does it cost to use CRFS

See our fee schedule for current rates.

Are there any special activities or programs available a the station?

Yes. Email CRFS for details.

Can I have alcohol at the station?

No, alcohol is not permitted at UVU sponsored activities (UVU policy #157).

Can I come unannounced and look around for a while?

No. All visitors must have prior approval to visit the field station.

Can children come to the field station?

Children are not allowed at CRFS as programs are intended for adults. Field Station guests should consist of only faculty, staff, and registered participants of the course.

Can I bring my pets with me?

Visitors are not allowed to bring pets.

Is there water and electricity at the station?

Yes. All electricity is solar generated. We also have our own solar-powered well and water treatment facility. With this in mind, we promote and practice both energy and water conservation.

Do cell phones work at the station?

No, cell reception does not reach the station.

Is there internet at the station?

Yes, we have internet, but it is very limited. Use of the internet must be approved by the group leader.

What kind of vegetation is around the station?

The pinyon/juniper woodland community occupies the top of the mesa and Colorado Plateau shrubland, grasslands, and riparian communities occur in the valley below.

Are there venomous snakes in the area?

The midget-faded rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis concolor) is found in the area. Although it is rare and usually non-aggressive, it does have highly effective neurotoxins and myotoxins. This snake should be avoided and appreciated only from a very safe distance.

Is the station inside Capitol Reef National Park?

Yes. All park regulations apply at CRFS unless otherwise approved. Click here for guidelines. However, you will not have to pay the entrance fee to the scenic drive on the way to the station.

Can we collect rocks, flowers, reptiles, etc?

No. The cultural and natural resources in National Parks are protected in perpetuity for the enjoyment of all.

Can we camp out and have campfires around the field station?

No. However, the park has three established campgrounds (Fruita, Cedar Mesa, and Cathedral Valley). In addition, primitive camping is available by obtaining a free backcountry permit at the park's visitor center. Fires are only allowed in designated campgrounds.

Is recycling available at the station?

Yes. We recycle #1-7 plastics, glass, cardboard, aluminum, tin, and paper.