_{By McKinsleigh Smith}

Fort Desolation Fest is returning in 2024. From June 6 through June 8, the festival is again giving attendees three days to explore the Capitol Reef National Park area, and three nights to enjoy an incredible lineup of live music in the red rocks of Cougar Ridge Resort in Torrey, Utah. Today, the festival announced its impressive lineup for this summer.

The main stage lineup this year includes Black Pumas, Sierra Ferrell, Paul Cauthen, The Record Company, Jaime Wyatt, The Lil Smokies, Pokey LaFarge, The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band, Olivia Wolf, and Cory Mon (who spent many years in the Provo music scene).

In anticipation of another large turnout, Fort Desolation’s campground space has doubled in size. The festival’s campground has become a legendary experience over the years. It’s a great place for stargazing and cookouts, and often festival artists mingle with concertgoers and have after-hours jams. The new Sidewinder Campground is only a short walk from the main stage.

Fort Desolation Fest has made a name for itself over the years by providing a premium experience for attendees. By limiting the number of concertgoers, they’re able to keep things safer, cleaner, and more functional.

“It’s pretty simple, really: By keeping attendance down, you ensure people can move around comfortably, get close to the music—and order food, drinks or find a restroom without making it a major endeavor,” says Jeremy Rawle, founder of Fort Desolation Fest. “This has been a core value for us since we started, and our attendees have made it clear that they appreciate it.”

In line with the mission to provide high quality experiences, the festival has added a new “Glamping” experience. This will allow visitors to experience the campground with all of the benefits of a luxury hotel, including a Scandinavian-inspired tent, a concierge lounge, baggage assistance, parking, a morning coffee and pastry bar, and more. For those who want to attend the concert but not camp/glamp, the town of Torrey includes plenty of other lodging in the area.

Of particular interest to Provo Music Magazine readers is the opportunity to obtain a music pass and a spot in camp in exchange for volunteer hours. Interested readers can email info@fortdesolation.com to find out about any open volunteer positions.

Whether you attend as a volunteer or a patron, Fort Desolation Fest is a great opportunity to strike out on your own and have your very own National Park adventure. Fort Desolation Fest takes place just a few miles from Capitol Reef National Park. With nightly music, you have three full days to explore red rock cliffs, canyons, domes, and arches. If you’ve ever wanted to get some hiking, fly fishing, cycling, or off roading in, now’s your chance.

Passes and camping spots go on sale Friday, February 2 at 10 AM at FortDesolation.com. Make sure to follow Fort Desolation on Instagram and check out “Beat of My Heart” by Cory Mon below.