Open
Open for the 2026 season from May 8 through September 20. Sites are first-come, first-served with some available for reservation on Recreation.gov. No potable water is available; campers must bring their own. Bear country protocols are in effect.
About
Maple Lake Campground is a small, rustic campground nestled in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest south of Payson, Utah. At 5,800 feet elevation, the campground features 10 tent-only sites shaded by white fir, pinyon pine, and Gambel oak. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring with grill. Vault toilets are available but there is no potable water, so campers must pack in all drinking water.
The campground provides direct access to Maple Lake, where canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and float tube fishing are popular activities. Rainbow and brook trout fishing draws anglers to both the lake and the creek below the campground. The Red Lake Trail departs from the upper camping area, offering hiking access into the adjacent Mount Nebo Wilderness with its alpine scenery, wildflowers, and wildlife.
Due to tight turns, narrow roads, and limited site sizes, trailers, campers, and RVs are not permitted. The nearby Nebo Loop Scenic Byway offers a 37-mile drive through high alpine terrain, with stops including Devils Kitchen Geological Area and its red rock hoodoos.
Directions
From I-15 take exit 250 (Payson). Head south on Main Street to 100 North (first traffic light) and turn left. Continue east to 600 East, then turn right in front of Peteetneet Academy. Go south on 600 East for 3.5 miles to the mouth of Payson Canyon. Maple Lake Campground is 1 mile south of Maple Bench Campground on the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway.
