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Best Campgrounds near Payson, UT

1,040 Reviews

Payson, Utah and its surrounding canyons feature a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed camping areas within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Developed options include Payson Lakes Campground, which offers tent and RV camping near stocked fishing lakes, and Spanish Oaks Campground, which provides electric hookups and picnic tables. Several dispersed camping zones like Miners Canyon and Sheep Creek provide free primitive camping options on public lands. The area encompasses both lakeside locations with amenities and more remote forest sites without facilities, making it suitable for various camping preferences.

Camping seasons vary substantially throughout the region, with most developed campgrounds operating from May through October due to mountain snow conditions. According to one visitor, "This campground was nice, lots of trees and shade," though several reviewers mentioned encountering cow dung in some areas, which affected their experience. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly at popular locations like Payson Lakes during summer weekends. Road access becomes more challenging at higher elevations, with some dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. Water availability is inconsistent across camping areas, with developed sites offering drinking water while dispersed locations require campers to bring their own supplies.

The mountain terrain provides distinctive camping experiences with notable elevation changes between valley floor and forest campgrounds. Reviews indicate that fishing is a primary draw for many visitors, with one camper noting that "They regularly stock the lakes here with Brook Trout and Rainbow Trout. It is a fantastic place to bring your kids for fishing." Campgrounds near water bodies tend to receive higher ratings from visitors but also experience more crowding during peak season. Several mixed-use campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV campers, though amenities vary significantly. The proximity to Payson makes these camping areas convenient weekend destinations for residents of Utah Valley, with most sites located within 30 minutes of town while still offering mountain seclusion and cooler temperatures than the valley floor.

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Best Camping Sites Near Payson, Utah (229)

    1. Payson Lakes

    17 Reviews
    Elk Ridge, UT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 798-3571

    $28 - $272 / night

    "Being that we already live in southern Utah county, this place has become a go to for our family. Only about 45 mins away from Payson Ut. "

    "Lots of fish in the lake, great bike trails and amazing views all around. With it being a 15 minute drive from Payson makes for a great time. Nice bathrooms, tables, fire pits, and in the trees."

    2. Lakeside RV Campground

    27 Reviews
    Orem, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 373-5267

    $31 - $48 / night

    "Lakeside was our home for 3 nights while we were in town for Provo’s annual Colonial Festival."

    "You're super close to amenities and anything you could want to see in town, as well as Utah Lake."

    3. Springville / Provo KOA Holiday

    20 Reviews
    Springville, UT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 491-0700

    $50 - $300 / night

    "We stayed at the Springville/ Provo Utah KOA in September 2021. This is a full service KOA with nice FHU 50 amp pull-thru sites which were long, wide and level."

    "Near the hwy but not next to. It’s a good place to stay and the monthly rates are fair."

    4. Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    22 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Very easy access public land right on Utah Lake. Packed gravel and dirt road going in is lumpy from use but smooths out a bit farther in. Side roads to sites are anyones guess."

    "Directions brought us right to the location. Road was rough into the sites and were hard to determine specific sites. Ended up pulling into edge of field. Definitely a good quiet night's sleep"

    5. Utah Lake State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Orem, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 375-0731

    $50 - $100 / night

    "Payson canyon is one of the best canyons I’ve ever seen"

    "Gorgeous view across the lake. Quiet. Electricity worked well. Extremely clean. Camp hosts were nowhere to be found and another rig had claimed the end lake-adjacent site I paid for."

    6. Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area

    30 Reviews
    Mapleton, UT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 798-3571

    "This is a great spot just a about 2 miles off the main highway. It’s paved until you get to the campground turn off which is a good dirt road. Wide open space with tons of options to tent or RV."

    "That being said, if you don't have an off-road capable vehicle (like me) - it's a solid option and there are some pretty mountain views. You can buy the permit online."

    7. Spanish Oaks Campground

    5 Reviews
    Spanish Fork, UT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 804-4600

    $15 - $40 / night

    "Paved road drive up campsites overlook Utah Valley and Wasatch Mountains. Restrooms, fish cleaning station, fire rings and picnic tables."

    "We loved the views from out camp spot, seeing the sun come up and down over the big lake out in the distance as well as the res right under you was beautiful. Made it perfect for relaxing."

    8. Maple Lake Campground

    5 Reviews
    Elk Ridge, UT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (385) 273-1100

    $26 / night

    "Unreal location, and the lake is beautiful."

    9. Miners Canyon BLM

    11 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Can be a bit windy some days but nice spread out area with beautiful views of mountains and Utah lake."

    "As beautiful as the view was, I felt it was ruined with all of the trash that people have left behind in the dispersed camping area as well as along the lakeshore."

    10. Diamond Fork

    12 Reviews
    Mapleton, UT
    16 miles
    Website

    "The sites are clean and have concrete around the table and cooking area. The tent site was nestled among the trees and was very nice. We did get a visit from the locals."

    "You are really close to fifth water and the start of the trail to the hot pots. There is lots of big cotton wood trees for shade. The spots are big enough for a tent or RV."

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Recent Camping Photos near Payson, UT

251 Photos of 229 Payson Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Payson, UT

1040 Reviews of 229 Payson Campgrounds

  • Claire L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Little Mill

    Our favorite place

    Our family adores this location. Great staff, clean toilets, stunning camping areas near the river, some directly on it! Spot 10 was great for our 33ft rig. We will be back Little Mill! Love you

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Springville / Provo KOA Holiday

    Clean and friendly staff.

    Spots are a little tight. Noise level is a 5. Near the hwy but not next to. It’s a good place to stay and the monthly rates are fair.

  • Kim G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Hailstone - Lower Fisher Campground — Jordanelle State Park

    Great state park campground

    Convenient location to Park City. Large spacious sites. Nice clean bathrooms. You can hear road noise from highway 40. We got a site without reservation with no problem. Some sites are more level than others. We are enjoying looking at the reservoir from the back of our site. Some construction noise across highway 40 but not too much late on a weekday.

  • Sary W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Flight Park State Recreation Area

    Good price

    Instructions for the campsite are a bit confusing. Don’t pay for a site until you get here even if you book online. There are limited spots. People camping around are nice and say hello.

    We camped on a Friday night and it was full when we arrived around 6pm but we snagged the last spot available. Otherwise I would have camped down the road in a dirt patch anyway.

  • Mike C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area

    Good overnight spot

    Quiet and easy to get to from road. Got crowded as the evening went on but plenty of room for all

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Squaw Peak Road Dispersed

    A hard way to the Top

    We fought hard to get to the spot. Up to Hood Campground, the road was a normal, winding road. Really great. After that, however, a stretch began that was really only suitable for 4WDs. Rocks, deep ruts, etc. We managed it with the 2WD, but we had to give it our all. There aren't many spots. The spot we found was right on the mountain in the forest, but it wasn't worth the effort. We still enjoyed the night very much. We didn't have an internet connection with T-Online. Apparently, the spot serves the locals as a picnic destination, love nest, or even wedding photo spot until sunset. We had a bit of everything that evening ;)

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Manti - La Sal KOA

    Perfect Location to jump on the Arapeen trail

    This KOA is daily straight forward. Has everything you will need. Laundry only had on machine working but I was able to get all mine done while we were here. Has a game room with a family room area and a large TV. We were able to ride our side by side from this location right onto the Arapeen trail. The main office will give you a simple map on how to get there and they also sell the trail maps for $10.50. Wanted to use the pool but it was closed for the season.

  • Cali C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Mud Creek Campground

    Spacious campground close to town

    There are tons of spots to choose from, and it always felt very safe. Lots of people with ATV’s and dirtbikes but not loud at all.

  • Jeff R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    Beautiful spot but trash everywhere

    Great views of the lake and surrounding mountains, but has trash, broken glass and junk everywhere.

Guide to Payson

Camping near Payson, Utah, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: The area is surrounded by stunning trails. Many campers enjoy the nearby Tibble Fork Reservoir, which is perfect for a day of hiking and picnicking. One visitor mentioned, "The drive and location is beautiful. The campground is large and there is a lot of privacy."
  • Water Activities: If you love water sports, check out Strawberry Bay. It's a great spot for boating and fishing. A reviewer said, "The campground was quiet and clean... Steps away from the reservoir which provided glorious sunrises!"
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. Campers at Granite Flat have noted the serene environment, saying, "Overall a beautiful location."

What campers like:

  • Natural Beauty: Campers rave about the picturesque views. One happy camper at Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area said, "It's a solid option and there are some pretty mountain views."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer a sense of seclusion. A visitor at Nunns Park noted, "Camp spots are snug but do the job... Great little secluded access points into the river."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Mountain Valley RV Resort are great for families. One reviewer mentioned, "Everything was clean and so easy to use! We will definitely be back."

What you should know:

  • Busy Seasons: Campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Strawberry Bay advised, "It’s FCFS and gets really busy, so arrive early in the morning."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Little Mill, have basic facilities. A visitor mentioned, "The site is off the main canyon road and there is some traffic noise during the day."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise from nearby roads or other campers. One camper at Lakeside RV Campground said, "You are also in the flight path of Provo's airport."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities like playgrounds and clean bathrooms. A reviewer at Springville / Provo KOA Holiday said, "Everything is clean and complete. Even the kitchen is clean and large in the hall."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. One family at Granite Flat enjoyed the quiet, saying, "It was so quiet the entire time we stayed here."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Nunns Park mentioned, "Wish there were showers. Great little secluded access points into the river."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Mountain Valley RV Resort noted, "We had a back-in site at the end of the row and there was a large grass area and fire pit that was great!"
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. One camper at Lakeside RV Campground mentioned, "Pretty nice place for RV they have hookups full and nice bathroom that's clean and heated."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, so consider bringing earplugs. A camper at Little Mill said, "The road noise was a lot more than I expected."

For those looking for Top Dog Friendly Camping near Payson, UT, many campgrounds allow pets, making it easy to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the camping options near Payson, Utah for visitors?

Visitors to Payson, Utah have several camping options within a short drive. Soldier's Pass Utah Backcountry offers free dispersed camping with no amenities where you must carry in all water. It's great for ATVs and off-road vehicles but sits near a shooting range. For developed camping, Utah Lake State Park Campground provides facilities close to Payson. Additional options include Springville/Provo KOA Holiday, Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area near Spanish Fork, and Miners Canyon BLM. The area offers a mix of developed campgrounds with amenities and dispersed backcountry sites for more adventurous campers within 15-45 minutes of Payson.

Where are the best camping spots in Payson Canyon?

Maple Lake is a standout camping spot in Payson Canyon, located just 15-20 minutes from the canyon mouth. This easily accessible campground features metal and concrete fire rings with abundant firewood nearby. Another excellent option is Payson Lakes, about 25 minutes up Payson Canyon. This popular destination offers good parking, paved paths around the main lake, and a genuine backwoods feel despite its amenities. Payson Canyon itself is widely regarded as one of the most scenic in the region, providing beautiful views and outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the area.

What campgrounds are available in Payson, Utah?

Camp Maple Dell is available near Payson for $150 per night with group camping options. Each site accommodates multiple tents and includes covered pavilions with picnic tables, fire pits, water pumps, shower houses, and flushing toilets. For those seeking state park amenities, Pine Creek Campground — Wasatch Mountain State Park offers camping with traditional sites, though they're designed for smaller rigs with narrow loop roads and mature trees. Other options in the broader area include Manti-LaSal National Forest Potters Pond Campground and Diamond Fork, providing a range of experiences from primitive to more developed facilities.

Is Payson Lake a good camping destination?

Yes, Payson Lake is an excellent camping destination, especially for families. Located about 45 minutes from Payson, Payson Lakes offers quality facilities including nice bathrooms, tables, fire pits, and shaded sites among trees. The lake itself is a great fishery regularly stocked with Brook and Rainbow Trout, making it perfect for teaching children to fish. Non-motorized boating is permitted, creating a safe environment for swimming and kayaking. The area also features bike trails and stunning views. While finding a spot on busy weekends can be challenging, the combination of outdoor activities, natural beauty, and convenient amenities makes Payson Lake a top choice for local getaways.

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