Payne Lake Recreation Area

4.44

11 reviews

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

300 ft

Price

$6 - $18/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

53 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Oakmulgee Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

300 ft

Price

$6 - $18/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

53 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Oakmulgee Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Payne Lake Recreation Area

$6.00 - $18.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $6 per day for non-hookup sites to $18 per day for sites with electric and water hookups. Senior/Access discounts bring the price...

Standard Site Fee$6.00

Hookup Site Fee$18.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.44

Recommended

Based on 11 reviews

7 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulcleanrestrooms

Some mention

reservation

"User reviews are generally positive, with campers appreciating the scenic beauty, cleanliness of facilities, and affordability. However, some concerns are raised about maintenance and the lack of reservations."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Payne Lake Recreation Area

32.8872, -87.4431

Driving directionsIn Centreville, AL, at the intersection of US Rt. 82 and State Rt. 25/6, take Rt. 25 west 3.9 miles to an intersection with State Rt. 5. Turn left onto Rt. 5 and go south 5.9 miles to Rt. 25/Payne Lake Rd. Turn right onto Rt. 25 and go 16.2 miles to Payne Lake National Forest Recreation Area sign. Turn right sign at sign into campground.

The campground is gated at night; call the ranger district office for hours. The parking aprons are a mix of paved and dirt/gravel, and leveling an RV on some aprons may be challenging. Access involves a combination of paved and unpaved roads with clear signage.

Nearby places

Centreville, AL (approximately 26 miles from the campground)

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies are in Centreville, AL, approximately 26 miles away, including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at Payne Lake Recreation Area

Experience the gentle rhythm of Alabama's seasons at Payne Lake, where mild winters averaging 40°F-60°F create perfect conditions for cozy campfires and peaceful hikes without the crowds. As spring unfolds into summer, temperatures climb to a pleasant 70°F-90°F range, ideal for swimming and water activities. While summer afternoons can bring authentic Southern warmth and humidity, the lake's cooling breezes and shaded campsites provide natural relief, making every season an invitation to explore.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Swimming/boating available but reviews note increased insects and humidity in summer.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Cooler seasons preferred with fewer mosquitoes; pleasant hiking and views likely.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring likely pleasant for hikes and lake use; cooler seasons have fewer mosquitoes per reviews.

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Mild winters (40–60°F) and open year-round make winter camping pleasant and quieter.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season is not explicitly mentioned, but the campground is open year-round.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.

About Payne Lake Recreation Area

Escape to the tranquil shores of Payne Lake Recreation Area, where 110 acres of pristine water beckon outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and serenity. This hidden gem features 56 thoughtfully designed campsites split between the lake's eastern and western shores, each equipped with its own picnic table, fire circle, and level pad perfect for tents or trailers. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling across mirror-smooth waters, or simply savoring a lakeside picnic, Payne Lake delivers year-round outdoor bliss in a setting that feels worlds away from everyday life.

Payne Lake Recreation Area offers a combination of rustic and semi-modern camping experiences. It caters to tent campers, small RVs, and groups.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Alabama's seasons at Payne Lake, where mild winters averaging 40°F-60°F create perfect conditions for cozy campfires and peaceful hikes without the crowds. As spring unfolds into summer, temperatures climb to a pleasant 70°F-90°F range, ideal for swimming and water activities. While summer afternoons can bring authentic Southern warmth and humidity, the lake's cooling breezes and shaded campsites provide natural relief, making every season an invitation to explore.

ElevationNestled at a comfortable 300 feet above sea level, the campground's gentle elevation provides easy access for all visitors while offering subtle vantage points across the sparkling lake waters.

Natural Features and SceneryDiscover two distinct camping experiences along Payne Lake's picturesque shores. The East section immerses you in a cathedral of towering trees, where dappled sunlight filters through dense canopy and each site feels like its own private woodland retreat. Cross to the West shore and the landscape opens dramatically, revealing manicured grounds beneath spacious skies—perfect for stargazing and social gatherings. This 110-acre lake serves as the jewel at the heart of it all, its calm waters reflecting the surrounding forest and inviting endless exploration.

Geological RegionTucked within the rolling landscapes of Talladega National Forest in Alabama, Payne Lake Recreation Area showcases the region's natural diversity. Here, the ancient Appalachian foothills give way to a stunning 110-acre lake, creating a unique ecosystem where dense hardwood forests transition seamlessly into open meadows and waterfront vistas. This remarkable setting combines the best of Alabama's woodland heritage with the recreational opportunities that only a pristine mountain lake can provide.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 14 consecutive days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Sites accommodate a maximum of 8 guests.

Groups

No specific group camping sites are mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground is divided into East and West sections. The East section is heavily wooded and rustic, while the West section is more open and manicured.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms available.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a walk-up, first-come-first-served basis.

Cancellation PolicyNo reservations are allowed; all sites operate on a first-come-first-served basis.

AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are available at the site, enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeThe campground includes a mix of small to medium-sized camping pads, suitable for tents and small RVs.

PrivacyThe East section offers heavily wooded, shaded sites with excellent privacy. Conversely, the West section is more open and spacious, with some sites offering lake views but less privacy due to reduced understory vegetation.

Total Campsites53 campsites

Recommended SitesThe East section is ideal for tent camping and offers better privacy, while the West section is suitable for RVs and features pull-throughs and hookups.

Amenities available

Showers

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Payne Lake Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Official sources highlight opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. User reviews frequently mention enjoying the scenic lake views and the natural setting.

HikingTwo hiking trails are available: the East Shore Trail (1.5 miles, foot traffic only) and the Payne Lake Nature Loop Trail (1 mile, foot traffic only). These trails offer opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area.

FishingFishing is popular at Payne Lake, which is home to species such as largemouth bass, crappie, bream, shell cracker, and channel catfish. User reviews confirm the quality of fishing opportunities.

SwimmingA designated swimming beach is available for campers. User reviews highlight the lake as suitable for lounging and water recreation.

BoatingThe 110-acre lake allows power boating with electric/trolling motors and non-motorized boating (e.g., kayaks). Informal boat mooring is possible at some campsites. There are also boat ramps and carry-down access.

Beach activitiesTwo large sandy beaches, one in each section, are available, offering opportunities for sunbathing and family activities.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include mosquitoes during warmer months and uneven terrain for RV leveling. Power boats are limited to electric/trolling motors.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyFire circles are provided at each site.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are accessible in Centreville, AL, which is about 26 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingNo specific information is provided about trash and recycling facilities. However, a trailer dump station is available for waste disposal.

Water FeaturesLocated on the 110-acre Payne Lake, the campground includes two large sandy beaches.

Camp HostRon, the host, is noted for being attentive and wonderful.

Weather at Payne Lake Recreation Area

Reviews

4.4

11 reviews

Recommended

Payne Lake Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are generally positive, with campers appreciating the scenic beauty, cleanliness of facilities, and affordability. However, some concerns are raised about maintenance and the lack of reservations.

Review Summaries

Based on 11 reviews

What Campers Love

User reviews frequently praise the scenic lake views, clean restrooms, and the peaceful, rustic atmosphere. One reviewer stated: 'It's beautiful at Payne Lake. We love going there.'

Based on 11 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users note issues with maintenance, such as neglected facilities and challenges during budget reductions. Additionally, the lack of a reservation system and limited sites with hookups are common...

Based on 11 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips from users include arriving early to secure a good spot, especially in the West section with hookups, and preparing for mosquitoes during warmer months. Bug spray is highly recommended.

Based on 11 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate that cooler seasons are preferred due to fewer mosquitoes. Summer may bring an increase in insect activity and higher humidity.

Based on 11 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'What a great park... in its day. We loved our 2-week stay at the East Campground. The rustic site #50 was gorgeous, overlooking the lake.' - 'It's cheap to stay here; every spot had a fire pit.' -...

Based on 11 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #50 in the East section is noted for its rustic charm and lake views. Site #26 is also mentioned positively for its lake view and affordability. Sites in the West section are preferred for those...

Based on 11 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user reviews address accessibility features, though official sources confirm wheelchair-friendly toilets are available.

Based on 11 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific user reviews discuss pet policies or experiences.

Based on 11 reviews

0 review

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Last updated January 5, 2026

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