How much does camping cost at Payson Lakes Guard Station?

Camping fees at Payson Lakes Guard Station are $139.92/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Payson Lakes Guard Station first-come first-served or reservation?

Payson Lakes Guard Station accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Payson Lakes Guard Station before I book?

Yes! Payson Lakes Guard Station has 8 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Payson Lakes Guard Station?

Payson Lakes Guard Station is open May 15 to October 11. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Payson Lakes Guard Station?

Payson Lakes Guard Station does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Payson Lakes Guard Station?

Fire policies at Payson Lakes Guard Station: Guests may bring their own firewood or purchase at Payson Lakes Campground for $9/per bundle. Firewood collecting at the Guard Station complex is not allowed. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Payson Lakes Guard Station have?

Payson Lakes Guard Station has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Payson Lakes Guard Station?

Pets are not allowed at Payson Lakes Guard Station. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Payson Lakes Guard Station?

Payson Lakes Guard Station offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Payson Lakes Guard Station?

Popular activities at Payson Lakes Guard Station include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Payson Lakes Guard Station

3.56

20 reviews

FR 017, Payson, UT 84651

Top 8% in UTFall

Summer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping Utah

Quick Facts

8,000 ft

Price

$139.92/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Book on Utah Recreation Company Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

8,000 ft

Price

$139.92/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Book on Utah Recreation Company Official Website

Get Directions

Payson Lakes Guard Station

$139.92 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN ELECTRIC: $139.92. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

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Provider

SPANISH FORK RANGER DISTRICT 801-798-3571 OR UTAH RECREATION COMPANY 385-273-1100

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

FR 017, Payson, UT 84651

Payson Lakes Guard Station

FR 017, Payson, UT 84651

Nearby places

Payson (13 miles, approximately 20 minutes)

Weather at Payson Lakes Guard Station

Current alerts(13)

- For more info, call Spanish Fork Ranger District at 801-798-3571 or Utah Recreation at 385-273-1100 -Visit our website gocamputah.com or Facebook facebook.com/letsgocamputah -To reserve a site call Recreation.gov reservation line 1-877-444-6777
Advance Reservations: Reservations are required and must be made at least 5 days in advance No Walk-ins/first come first serve permitted for these sites
Bring your own linens, plates, cups, and flatware.
Don't Move Firewood: Help prevent the spread of tree-killing pests in our national forests by obtaining firewood within 10 miles of your destination and burning it on-site. For more information click here

Best Time to Camp at Payson Lakes Guard Station

Best season: fall. Fall delivers the campground's signature draw — dazzling aspen color and crisp, clear weather that make hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing especially rewarding. Expect daytime highs around 50–65°F and chilly nights in the 20s–30s, with fishing and boating still very good as trout feed and crowds thin compared with summer. Plan for mid-September to early October for peak color before the mid-October closure; check local hunting-season dates and Forest Service notices when you book. Peak months: September, October, August Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 8% in UT

Signature season: dazzling aspen color mid‑Sept to early Oct; site highlight.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to October 11. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 23, 2025, through October 12, 2026. Closed October 11, 2025, through May 22, 2026.

About Payson Lakes Guard Station

Payson Lakes Guard Station sits high in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Payson, Utah, where alpine meadows and aspen groves frame a historic cabin retreat. Utah Recreation Company operates this small, secluded property popular with families seeking privacy and fall color. Guests hike, fish, bike, and watch wildlife between the overnight gate closures.

The Payson Lakes Guard Station offers unique historic lodging in the form of a cabin and bunkhouse. It does not accommodate traditional camping setups such as RVs or tents.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall delivers the campground's signature draw — dazzling aspen color and crisp, clear weather that make hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing especially rewarding. Expect daytime highs around 50–65°F and chilly nights in the 20s–30s, with fishing and boating still very good as trout feed and crowds thin compared with summer. Plan for mid-September to early October for peak color before the mid-October closure; check local hunting-season dates and Forest Service notices when you book. Peak months: September, October, August Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation8000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryDense aspen and Douglas fir forest surrounds the guard station, with meadows opening to views of three alpine lakes: McClelland, Box, and Big East. Deer graze near the cabin at dawn. Fall transforms the aspens to gold, typically peaking mid-September to early October. Wildflowers blanket the meadows in summer. The elevation and forest cover create genuine seclusion.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe Guard Station includes a historic cabin and bunkhouse built in 1935, capable of accommodating 8 people in bunk beds, with 4 guests in each structure. The site is described in user reviews as 'rustic' but 'secluded and private,' making it ideal for family getaways.

Programs & ActivitiesThere are no mentions of organized cultural or educational programs in the source.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 7 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

8guests can sleep in the cabin and bunkhouse
up to 7 additional day-use guests may visit.

Groups

Group camping is not supported
the Guard Station has a maximum capacity of 8 overnight guests and 7 additional day-use visitors.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

AccessibilityThe historical nature of the Guard Station limits accessibility features. There is no mention of wheelchair-friendly facilities or paths.

Site SizeThe Guard Station is compact, with a cabin and bunkhouse. No additional campsite areas are available for tents or RVs.

PrivacyThe Guard Station offers a high level of privacy as it is secluded and nestled in a forest of aspen and Douglas fir trees at an elevation of 8,000 feet. "Very secluded and private - perfect family getaway," one user review noted.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring cleaning supplies such as Clorox wipes and mouse traps due to potential hygiene concerns. Also, bring bedding, plates, and utensils as these are not provided.

Need help booking Payson Lakes Guard Station?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

There is no water available on site. Please bring all of the water you will need for your stay. Please bring your own drinking water This is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility; please bring garbage bags

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

I manage this campground

Things to do at Payson Lakes Guard Station

Visitors can engage in a range of activities including fishing, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Payson Lakes Recreation Area and Mount Nebo Wilderness Area enhance these opportunities.

Hiking4.0/5

Numerous local trails plus access to Mount Nebo Wilderness for extended hiking.

Fishing4.0/5

Fishing available in McClelland, Box and Big East Lakes; rainbow and brown trout expected.

Biking4.0/5Top 17% in Utah

Trails support mountain biking; terrain and nearby wilderness add options.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Abundant wildlife; deer graze near the cabin at dawn and lakes attract wildlife.

Water Sports3.0/5

Payson Lakes allow canoeing/kayaking on the alpine lakes.

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5High elevation (8,000 ft) and secluded setting suggest good dark‑sky views.

Photography4.0/5Aspen fall color, meadows, lakes and wildlife create excellent photographic subjects.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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

Food Storage RequiredFood must be stored securely inside the cabin or bunkhouse to avoid attracting wildlife, particularly bears.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Payson Lakes Guard Station

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

3.6

20 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Payson Lakes Guard Station has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of the Guard Station are mixed. Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty of the location and the secluded setting, but cleanliness and maintenance issues are recurring concerns. "One of the most beautiful spots in Utah," commented one user, while another stated, "The cabins were not clean. With a little bit of repairs these could be the best place to stay on the Nebo Loop."

Review Summaries

Based on 20 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests frequently highlight the picturesque setting and rustic charm. "Very enjoyable," one user remarked about their stay. The privacy and family-friendly environment were also appreciated: "Very...

Based on 20 reviews

Common Concerns

Cleanliness was the most significant issue reported. "The cabins were not clean," and "mouse droppings in the guard station" were mentioned multiple times. Maintenance concerns, such as a non-working...

Based on 20 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The Guard Station is frequently reviewed for its rustic charm and seclusion, but some users mentioned specific issues like mice and non-functioning appliances in the bunkhouse.

Based on 20 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing cleaning supplies and mouse traps. "If you are going, bring Clorox wipes to do your own cleaning and mouse traps to keep them out of your food," one review advised. Another...

Based on 20 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The summer months appear to be the most popular time to visit, as the area offers lush greenery and abundant outdoor activities. However, some visitors reported colder temperatures and snow in late...

Based on 20 reviews

Camper Quotes

- "One of the most beautiful spots in Utah." -Maren C. - "The stay was great and a good getaway in a rustic cabin with campfires at night. Very enjoyable." -Thor S. - "The cabins were not clean. With...

Based on 20 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no specific accessibility-related reviews or features mentioned.

Based on 20 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not allowed at the Guard Station, and there are no user reviews addressing this policy.

Based on 20 reviews

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Payson Lakes Guard Station

$139.92 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN ELECTRIC: $139.92. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

SPANISH FORK RANGER DISTRICT 801-798-3571 OR UTAH RECREATION COMPANY 385-273-1100

Go if

You want a secluded family cabin retreat with access to hiking, fishing, and spectacular fall foliage in a high-elevation alpine setting.

Skip if

You need 24-hour gate access or spotless facilities with modern appliances and consistent housekeeping.

Nearby Campgrounds

Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Salem, UT, 84653

Payson Lakes sits in the high-elevation alpine zone of Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, operated by Utah Recreation Company. The mid-sized campground serves tent campers, RV users, and groups who come for fishing, swimming, and hiking among wildflower meadows and mountain lakes. Reviewers consistently praise the clean facilities and helpful hosts, though campsites run small and the lakes can drop in summer.

Payson Lakes Guard Station

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Payson Lakes Guard Station

Campground Map

Weather at Payson Lakes Guard Station

Current alerts(13)

Best Time to Camp at Payson Lakes Guard Station

Planning Tips

About Payson Lakes Guard Station

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Payson Lakes Guard Station?

Amenities available

Things to do at Payson Lakes Guard Station

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

Explore related camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Payson Lakes Guard Station

Current alerts(13)

Best Time to Camp at Payson Lakes Guard Station

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Payson Lakes Guard Station?

Amenities available

Things to do at Payson Lakes Guard Station

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews