Payson Lakes

Star4.18
165 reviews
Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Salem, UT, 84653
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

8,000 ft

Price

$15 - $305/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

71 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Utah Recreation Company site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Payson Lakes
$15.00 - $305.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary by site type: $31 for single sites, $62 for double sites, $119 for glamping sites, $305 for large group sites (capacity varies). Extra...
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Standard Site Fee$31.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$119.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$305.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.18

Satisfactory

Based on 165 reviews

Most mentioned

cleanwell-maintained

Some mention

noisesmall

"User reviews for Payson Lakes Campground are mixed, with many praising the beautiful natural setting, clean facilities, and attentive camp hosts. However, some users mentioned challenges, such as cramped campsites, noise from neighboring campers, and lake water levels affected by drought."

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Campground Map

Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Salem, UT, 84653

Payson Lakes

Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Salem, UT, 84653

Driving directionsFrom I-15, take exit 250 toward north Payson/Salem and proceed south on Main Street to 100 North/Highway 198. Travel east to 600 East. Turn south onto 600 East, which becomes the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway/Payson Canyon Road. Travel up the canyon to the campground.
Accessible via Nebo Loop Scenic Byway, a paved road suitable for most vehicles; may have seasonal closures due to snow conditions.
Nearby places
Payson (12 miles), Spanish Fork (22 miles), Provo (30 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Payson, Utah, approximately 12 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Payson Lakes

Experience nature's air conditioning at this high-elevation paradise, where summer days bring refreshingly cool temperatures that offer sweet relief from valley heat. The mountain climate keeps things interesting—pack layers for crisp mornings that warm to perfect hiking weather, and don't be surprised by afternoon thundershowers that roll through, leaving behind that distinctive pine-scented freshness. Spring and fall adventurers should come prepared for nature's wild card, as these shoulder seasons can surprise with everything from golden sunshine to unexpected snowflakes dancing through the aspens.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Cool high-elevation summers with active boating, fishing and hiking; however weekends can be crowded.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Reviews note early September is a great, less-crowded time; fall foliage likely strong in aspens.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens late May; late-spring stays possible but shoulder-season services and water levels may vary.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed Oct 11–May 23; winter activities limited and not supported by facilities.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23, 2025, to October 11, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 23, 2025, to October 11, 2025.
  • Current Alerts: Bear country warnings are active; non-compliance with food storage regulations may result in fines.

About Payson Lakes

Escape to the high country at Payson Lakes, where crystal-clear mountain waters invite you to cast a line, paddle a canoe, or simply breathe in the crisp alpine air at 8,000 feet. This beloved mountain retreat beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its tapestry of aspen groves, towering firs, and majestic pines, creating an enchanting backdrop for unforgettable adventures. Whether you're seeking the perfect fishing spot, yearning for scenic trail exploration, or dreaming of peaceful nights under star-filled skies, Payson Lakes delivers the quintessential Rocky Mountain camping experience.
Payson Lakes Campground offers a variety of camping options, including individual tent and RV sites, double sites, group camping areas, and glamping sites. The diversity of site types accommodates a wide range of camping preferences.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
12 PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
  • Two-night minimum on weekends
  • three-night minimum on holiday weekends.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The Big East Lake's day-use area includes a small swim beach and picnic tables. A paved trail encircles the lake, making it accessible for easy walks and wildlife observation.
HikingA paved nature trail circles Big East Lake, providing easy access for all skill levels. Nearby attractions include the Mount Nebo Wilderness Area with numerous trails and the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway, featuring a 0.5-mile round-trip trail to red rock hoodoos at the Devil's Kitchen Geological Area.
FishingFishing is a popular activity at Payson Lakes, where anglers can catch rainbow and brown trout. However, user reviews indicate that the fishing quality may vary depending on lake water levels.
SwimmingSwimming is allowed in designated areas at Big East Lake. However, some user reviews noted algae blooms and muddy shores, which may affect the swimming experience.
BoatingCanoeing and kayaking are popular activities. However, the use of powerboats is prohibited, ensuring a quieter experience on the water.
Wildlife viewingThe area is rich in wildlife, with deer frequently seen in the campground. The surrounding forest and lake provide suitable habitats for diverse species.
Beach activitiesThe day-use area at Big East Lake includes a small beach, although some users noted muddy conditions and algae issues, which may detract from the experience.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPossible bear activity; campers are advised to store food and trash securely. Water levels in lakes may vary due to drought conditions.
Active AlertsBear country warnings are active; non-compliance with food storage regulations may result in fines.

Weather at Payson Lakes

Reviews

4.2
165 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Payson Lakes is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Payson Lakes Campground are mixed, with many praising the beautiful natural setting, clean facilities, and attentive camp hosts. However, some users mentioned challenges, such as cramped campsites, noise from neighboring campers, and lake water levels affected by drought.
Review Summaries
Based on 165 reviews

What Campers Love

Commonly mentioned positives include the well-maintained facilities, clean and odor-free bathrooms, helpful hosts, and a variety of recreational activities such as kayaking and fishing. The scenic...
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Based on 165 reviews

Common Concerns

Recurring complaints include noisy neighbors, algae blooms in the lake, muddy conditions along the shores, and sites being smaller than advertised. Issues with overcrowding and enforcement of quiet...
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Based on 165 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own shade and chairs for the lake areas. Consider visiting outside of peak times to avoid overcrowding. Be cautious about site sizes, especially if using larger RVs. Bring water shoes for...
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Based on 165 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Many reviews note that the campground can be crowded during summer weekends and holidays. Winter visitors highlighted the area's serene beauty but noted limited activities. Drought conditions have...
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Based on 165 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The bathrooms were the cleanest and best smelling camping bathrooms I've ever experienced." "Our camp hosts Jim and Judy were amazing; they made sure everything was perfect!" "The lake is beautiful,...
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Based on 165 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviewers mentioned specific challenges with certain sites, such as C11, which is described as having a steep driveway and being unsuitable for larger trailers. Sites in Loop B were often noted for...
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Based on 165 reviews

Accessibility Features

One reviewer noted that the paved trail around Big East Lake is fully wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for visitors with mobility challenges.
Based on 165 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but owners are required to keep them on leashes not exceeding six feet. Some visitors complained about dogs barking at night, disrupting the camping experience.
Based on 165 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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