Maple Lake Campground
4.5829 reviewsFR 020, Payson, UT 84651
Quick Facts
5,800 ftPrice
$15 - $29/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
10 campsites
Season
Open from May 9 to S...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
5,800 ftPrice
$15 - $29/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
10 campsites
Season
Open from May 9 to S...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Maple Lake Campground
$15.00 - $29.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$29 for single campsites (includes 8 people and 1 vehicle), $15 for day use in picnic areas, $10 for extra vehicles, and $9 for firewood (available...
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Standard Site Fee$29.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$29.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider385-273-1100
What Campers Say
4.58
Top-Rated
Based on 29 reviews
93 Google reviews
Most mentioned
shadelocationlakewell-maintained
"The Maple Lake Campground is generally well-received, with many reviewers praising the peaceful environment, proximity to the lake, and the friendliness of camp hosts. However, concerns have been raised about rule enforcement, restroom cleanliness, and lake conditions."
Fees & Passes at Maple Lake Campground
$15 - $29/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive days.
Cancellation: Cancellations made prior to arrival will incur a $10 service fee and may forfeit the first night's u...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Utah Recreation website.
Best Time to Camp at Maple Lake Campground
Experience the magic of true mountain weather at Maple Lake, where sun-drenched summer days give way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire gatherings. Spring awakens the forest with wildflower blooms and gentle rain showers, while autumn paints the landscape in golden hues. Pack layers to embrace the mountain's moody temperament – you might start your morning in a fleece and end your afternoon in shorts and sandals.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 9 - September 20. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 9 to September 20. First-come, first-served operations begin June 21.
About Maple Lake Campground
Nestled in a pristine mountain forest, Maple Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic wilderness retreat. This rustic haven, perfectly sized for intimate tent camping and cozy small campers, serves as your gateway to endless adventure. Spend your days casting lines into crystal-clear waters, paddling across the mirror-like lake surface, or exploring winding trails that reveal hidden mountain vistas at every turn.
Maple Lake Campground is designed primarily for tent campers and very small campers. It does not accommodate trailers or large RVs due to limitations in site size and road conditions. The 10 single campsites are first-come, first-served and include basic amenities like picnic tables and campfire rings.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of true mountain weather at Maple Lake, where sun-drenched summer days give way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire gatherings. Spring awakens the forest with wildflower blooms and gentle rain showers, while autumn paints the landscape in golden hues. Pack layers to embrace the mountain's moody temperament – you might start your morning in a fleece and end your afternoon in shorts and sandals.
ElevationPerched at 5,800 feet above sea level, Maple Lake Campground offers a true high-country experience. The crisp mountain air carries the scent of pine and promises cooler temperatures that provide sweet relief from summer heat. While the thinner atmosphere might leave lowlanders slightly breathless on arrival, most visitors quickly adjust and find the elevation adds an invigorating edge to their outdoor adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering White Firs create natural cathedral ceilings overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Ancient Pinyon Pines stand sentinel alongside graceful Gambel Oaks, whose leaves whisper secrets in the mountain breeze. This open forest sanctuary offers the perfect balance of dappled shade and sunny clearings, creating an enchanting backdrop for your camping memories.
Geological RegionMaple Lake Campground lies within the majestic embrace of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, a sprawling wilderness tapestry woven from high-altitude coniferous forests and dramatic mountain landscapes. Here, stately White Firs and hardy Pinyon Pines thrive alongside stands of Gambel Oak, creating a diverse ecosystem that showcases the remarkable biodiversity of Utah's premier mountain playground. This geological wonderland tells the story of ancient seas, volcanic upheavals, and glacial sculpting that shaped today's breathtaking terrain.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThis campground does not have specific accommodations for individuals with disabilities, and one reviewer noted a lack of accessible features such as pathways near the water.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as small, suitable for tents and very small campers. Trailers and large RVs are not permitted due to site size, tight turns, and narrow roads.
Sites PrivacySites offer some level of privacy due to the open forest setting, but specific details on seclusion or privacy between sites are not provided.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites closer to the lake offer easier access to water activities but may experience more traffic and noise.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12 PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 8 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout10 single campsites arranged in an open loop with close proximity to Maple Lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 9 to September 20. First-come, first-served operations begin June 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by using the Scan & Pay option on-site.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites available starting June 21. Availability cannot be guaranteed without a physical visit to the campground.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made prior to arrival will incur a $10 service fee and may forfeit the first night's use fee depending on timing. No-shows are charged a $20 service fee and forfeit the first night’s fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Maple Lake Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities suitable for nature enthusiasts and families. Popular pursuits include fishing in the creek below the campground for rainbow and brook trout, as well as non-motorized boating such as kayaking and canoeing on the calm waters of Maple Lake. Red Lake Trail provides hiking opportunities, starting from the upper camping areas near the lake. Nearby attractions like the Mount Nebo Wilderness Area and the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway offer additional trails and scenic drives. Some reviewers have praised the fishing and hiking experiences, while others noted deteriorating lake conditions with algae and trash.
Hiking
The Red Lake Trail starts from the upper camping areas by the lake. It offers hiking opportunities in a picturesque setting. Nearby, the Mount Nebo Wilderness Area provides additional trails with vibrant wildflowers and abundant wildlife.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in the creek below the campground, which is known for rainbow and brook trout. Reviewers have given mixed feedback, with some praising the fishing experience while others mentioned dead fish and deteriorating water conditions.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in Maple Lake, but the experience may vary. Some reviewers mentioned the presence of algae and dirty water, while others enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the lake.Boating
Non-motorized boating activities, such as canoeing and kayaking, are popular on Maple Lake. The calm waters make it suitable for a relaxing boating experience.Wildlife viewing
The campground's open forest setting and nearby Mount Nebo Wilderness Area provide opportunities to spot deer, moose, and a variety of birds. Reviewers have highlighted the serene natural environment.Winter Activities
Winter recreation opportunities are not mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, including canoeing and kayaking, are popular on the calm waters of Maple Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Visitors must follow local fire restrictions during dry seasons.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is in bear country. Visitors must secure trash and food appropriately to avoid attracting wildlife.
Weather at Maple Lake Campground
30
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include a hospital and police station in Payson, UT, approximately 9 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9 - September 20
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility. Campers are required to bring their own trash bags and remove all garbage upon departure. There is no mention of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Maple Lake, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and floating.
Common complaintsSome users report issues with trash and cleanliness in both the restroom facilities and the general area.
HostCampground hosts are generally praised for their friendliness and responsiveness. Recent reviews mention hosts like 'Joe' and 'JJ' as being particularly attentive and helpful.
Campground Map
FR 020, Payson, UT 84651
Driving directionsFrom I-15 take the Payson exit 250. Go South on Main Street to 100 North (1st traffic light) take a left at this light. Continue East to 600 East then take a right in front of Peteetneet Academy. Go South on 600 East for 3.5 miles to the mouth of Payson Canyon. Maple Lake Campground is 1 mile South of Maple Bench Campground.
The route involves paved roads but has tight turns and narrow roads, making it unsuitable for trailers and large RVs. During winter months or bad weather, additional caution is needed.Nearby places
Payson (9 miles, approximately 20-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained in Payson, UT, approximately 9 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
29 reviews
Maple Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Maple Lake Campground is generally well-received, with many reviewers praising the peaceful environment, proximity to the lake, and the friendliness of camp hosts. However, concerns have been raised about rule enforcement, restroom cleanliness, and lake conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 29 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects highlighted by users include the serene atmosphere, ample shade, well-maintained campsites, and helpful camp hosts. Many users appreciated the location's proximity to the lake and...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include issues with noisy and unruly campers, aggressive dogs in neighboring sites, unclean restrooms, and trash around the campsites and the lake.
Based on 29 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a first-come, first-served site. Bringing drinking water is essential as the campground does not provide any. Reviewers recommend being cautious...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak season reviews from summer highlight the beauty of the area and the availability of activities, while also noting increased crowding and occasional difficulties with rule enforcement. Off-season...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Awesome campground!!! Has bathrooms, very close to the lake! Great environment." - Moses Fletcher. "Great little quiet campground. No trailers allowed. The lake was beautiful and serene." - Korinne...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews are not available, but most comments indicate that all 10 campsites are similarly equipped with basic amenities.
Based on 29 reviewsAccessibility Features
One reviewer noted that the area does not have accommodations for people with disabilities, particularly noting the lack of accessible pathways near the lake.
Based on 29 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but owners must control them as per the rules. One review described an incident involving an aggressive dog from a neighboring site, highlighting the need for careful adherence to...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Camper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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