Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Uinta/Payson Lakes
Overview
Situated within the lush Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Payson Lakes offers a refreshing mountain retreat for RV travelers looking to escape the valley heat. This high-elevation destination features a cluster of three picturesque lakes—McClellan, Box Elder, and Pete Winward—surrounded by vibrant aspen groves and towering pine trees. Unlike developed commercial parks, this forest service gem provides a tranquil, back-to-nature atmosphere where the primary soundtrack is the wind through the leaves and the gentle ripples of the water. It is a premier choice for those who value scenic beauty and quiet evenings under the stars.
Location & Surroundings
Located approximately 12 miles up the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway from Payson, UT, the park sits at an elevation of roughly 8,000 feet. The drive itself is a highlight, offering sweeping views of the surrounding canyons and peaks. The campground is nestled in a subalpine basin, providing a cool microclimate even during the peak of summer. The surrounding Mount Nebo Wilderness area enhances the sense of seclusion, making the park feel miles away from civilization despite its proximity to the Wasatch Front. Travelers should prepare for winding mountain roads that lead to this pristine alpine setting.
Amenities & Park Features
Payson Lakes is designed for a rustic experience, focusing on natural integration rather than modern utility. The park offers paved camping pads that can accommodate various RV sizes, though there are no water, sewer, or electrical hookups available. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for traditional campouts. While hookups are absent, the facility provides drinking water via hand pumps and well-maintained vault toilets throughout the loops. A paved shoreline trail connects the campground to the day-use areas, ensuring easy access for guests with limited mobility or families with strollers.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is the water, where visitors can enjoy fishing for rainbow trout or exploring the shoreline via non-motorized watercraft like kayaks and paddleboards. Hiking is another major activity, with the Payson Lakes Shoreline Trail offering an easy loop around the water. For more adventurous trekkers, the nearby Grotto Trail leads to a stunning natural waterfall tucked into a rocky alcove. Driving the full length of the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway is highly recommended, as it features numerous overlooks and trailheads that showcase the diverse geology and flora of central Utah.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for self-contained RVers who enjoy dry camping and want to immerse themselves in a mountain environment. It is particularly well-suited for families seeking a safe, outdoor space for children to bike and play near the water. Nature photographers and birdwatchers will find plenty of inspiration among the wildflowers and local wildlife. If you are looking for a peaceful forest escape and do not mind trading luxury amenities for crisp mountain air and immediate lake access, Payson Lakes is an excellent fit for your Utah itinerary.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Juniper G Crofts
Loved the walk around the lake, it was a mile paved loop. Nice campsites, but the double site 37B was not actually wide enough for our 2 rv's. The drive around the loop is narrow and our RV was scraping along branches on the sides and top. Sites and restrooms were clean. Would definitely go back but not in an RV.
Amy Dalton
After a few wonderful days staying in C loop, I found my car battery had died. Keith, the camp host, came to the rescue and helped me jump the car. He was quick, calm, patient, kind, and knowledgeable. So grateful to have help nearby to access when I needed it. While I would've loved to use the excuse of car problems as a reason to stay, it was a relief when the car engine turned over. It's a magical area and great lake to paddle board on and enjoy the views. What a special place!
Tyler Huffaker
Payson lakes is such a great campground. Big lake with lots of fish, and good camping spots within the trees. There is a path that is about a mile that surrounds the lake, with trees and wildlife throughout. We visit yearly and always look forward to coming
Rachel Wesemann
This is such a beautiful campground. Dog friendly and full of good pups! The walk around the lake is well paved and beautiful I’d guess around a mile and took about 20-30 mins to walk (but we walked slow and enjoyed our time, you will too). There’s an area for day visitors as well as campers but the lake is available to all. The lake has lots of great spots built for fishing. But lots of tall, tight trees all around.
Walking Circus
Fam favorite!! 20 minutes from our house. This is our go to, to get on the water fast. It's a complete vibe!! Small enough to kayak around a few times. Big enough to feel like you're getting variety. $15 day use pass, or $60 annual pass. Hearing it will be open until Columbus Day 2025. No official launch area, but many different areas to launch from. Make sure to go to the first Lake entrance, the second will take you further into the campgrounds. Drive up and trees in your backdrop definitely always a plus!! Will be coming back for as long as we can.