The historic town of Fruita sits in the heart of Capitol Reef National Park and acts as the central junction for people passing by or heading to the famous Scenic Drive. Named for its orchards of fruit, the town was established in the 1880s by Mormon pioneers and was also known as the Eden of Wayne County. Located at the confluence of Sulphur Creek and the Fremont River, there are 2,500 trees still maintained by the National Park Service.

There is a barn, an old Ford truck parked near the home, and some fenced in pastures with horses and farming equipment laid out. Along with the nearby Petroglyph Panel you will find history from distinct time periods and vastly different cultures. Not far from the panel is the Fruita Schoolhouse, a restored building from the park's past. The campground is just past the historic district.