Payson Canyon campsites sit between 6,400-8,000 feet elevation in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Most campgrounds close seasonally from mid-October through May due to heavy snowfall. The area features a mix of pine and cottonwood trees with numerous trout-stocked lakes and streams.
What to do
Hiking to hot springs: Diamond Fork campground provides direct access to Fifth Water Hot Springs trail. The 2.4-mile trail leads to natural thermal pools. "Fifth Water Hot Springs was closed and blocked off due to COVID-19, so be sure to check before you go if that is on your agenda," notes a camper from Diamond Fork.
Fishing for trout: The rivers near Diamond Fork offer excellent fishing opportunities for brown trout and cutthroat trout. "The fishing for brown trout, and cutthroat trout in diamond fork river or the fifth water river can be amazing and you don't see a lot of anglers," reports a visitor. Most streams are regularly stocked during summer months.
Exploring local trails: Several campgrounds feature educational paths with informational kiosks. "There is a well maintained nature trail that passes through the campground. There are educational kiosks along the trail," explains a camper. Diamond Fork features painted bear tracks that tell a story throughout the campground loops.
What campers like
Convenient location: Nunns Park offers quick access to outdoor recreation while remaining close to town. "This is one of the closest campgrounds to Provo. It is quick and easy for the kind of trip to just get away," notes one reviewer. Most sites sit within walking distance to water features.
Shaded sites: Many campers appreciate the abundant tree cover. At Uinta National Forest Whiting Campground, "every site had shade with concrete parking and fire pit." The shade provides welcome relief during hot summer days when temperatures can reach 90°F.
Water proximity: Camping near water ranks as a top feature. "The river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise," mentions a Nunns Park visitor. Many campgrounds feature sites directly alongside creeks or within walking distance of lakes.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives frequent praise. "This campground was super clean, but definitely not my favorite. The sites were super close together," notes one visitor to Payson Lakes. Whiting Campground was described as "literally one of the cleanest I've been to this year."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. At Payson Lakes, "should reserve well in advance or get there early for the walk-in sites." Granite Flat similarly requires advance planning as "this campsite is always full."
Site variations: Campsite quality and privacy vary significantly across and within campgrounds. "There were a couple spots that were semi private but most were very exposed," notes one camper. Sites near water tend to fill fastest.
Seasonal closures: Most Payson area campgrounds operate from May through mid-October. Exceptions exist, as one visitor found: "One of the few places open. Wanted to get out since the sun has finally appeared after a long winter."
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently report wildlife sightings. "I have seen elk, deer, moose, wild turkeys, and black bear in and around the area and campsite so don't leave food in your tent and clean up your campsite," warns a Diamond Fork camper. Proper food storage is essential.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Little Mill offers ideal sites for families seeking water access. "Great relaxing family time, fishing on river close, close to tribble fork and silver lakes," shares one visitor. Many sites feature direct creek access.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play equipment. Jolley's Ranch "has a fun playground close by" that provides entertainment for children when not exploring trails or waterways.
Safety considerations: Families should prepare for environmental hazards. "The only problem we encountered was some poison ivy that was along the bank of the stream. But, once identified, it was easy enough to keep the kids away from it," mentions one parent.
Group site options: For family reunions, Camp Maple Dell offers large group sites. "This camp can be rented by camp ground for $150 per night. Multiple tents fit per site. We had 6 tents, and had room for several more," notes a reviewer. These sites include covered pavilions with multiple picnic tables.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV campers should research site dimensions before arrival. At Nunns Park, "our 20' trailer does fine. Sites are a little close," reports one RVer. Most campgrounds list maximum vehicle lengths on reservation platforms.
Limited hookups: While some campgrounds offer partial hookups, many only provide basic amenities. Little Mill has "no water, trash or electric and vault toilets" according to recent visitors. Plan accordingly with full tanks and power alternatives.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. One visitor noted, "High clearance with all wheel or 4-wheel drive recommended until the snow melts." Call ahead for current road conditions, especially in early season.
