TORREY, Utah — Fort Desolation Fest is heading back to the red rock country surrounding Capitol Reef National Park Sept. 24–26, bringing another weekend of nationally recognized musicians, outdoor adventure, camping, and community to Cougar Ridge Resort.
Now entering its fifth year, the boutique festival has built a reputation for combining intimate live music experiences with some of Utah’s most spectacular scenery. Organizers have announced a 2026 lineup featuring Drive-By Truckers, Andrew Bird, Grahame Lesh & Friends, Rayland Baxter, Futurebirds, Tune-Yards, Bella White, Grace Cummings, Coleman Jennings, Triggers & Slips, and Pixie & The Partygrass Boys.
Unlike many large-scale music festivals, Fort Desolation intentionally limits attendance to create a more relaxed atmosphere.
“We want people to be able to move around comfortably, get close to the music and enjoy the festival without long lines,” said festival founder Jeremy Rawle. “This has been a big part of it from the very beginning.”
Set just outside Capitol Reef National Park, the festival encourages attendees to spend their days exploring Southern Utah’s dramatic landscape before gathering for evening performances. Hiking, fly-fishing, cycling, off-roading, and sightseeing are all within easy reach of the festival grounds.
New additions for 2026 include limited passes to the Oasis Pool & Fitness facility, a 21-and-over amenity featuring a bar and rentable cabanas, as well as the debut of the Fort Desolation Fondo, a two-day gravel cycling event created in partnership with the Utah Gravel Series.
Camping remains a central part of the Fort Desolation experience. Festival organizers describe the campground as a destination of its own, situated in a freshly cut alfalfa field with panoramic views of surrounding red rock formations. The atmosphere often extends beyond the main stage with campsite cookouts, cornhole tournaments, informal jam sessions, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the country.
For those seeking additional comfort, the festival also offers a limited number of glamping tents and luxury villas. Glamping accommodations include furnished canvas tents, memory-foam mattresses, VIP festival passes, dedicated parking, and access to the Oasis Pool & Fitness facility. Villas feature two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchenette, living space, fireplace, private deck, and multiple VIP passes.
As Fort Desolation enters its fifth year, organizers continue to focus on what has made the event unique from the beginning: world-class music, unforgettable scenery, and the opportunity to experience Utah’s red rock country in a way that goes beyond the festival grounds.
For tickets, lodging options, and additional information, visit fortdesolation.com.
