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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Maple Bench Campground

Santaquin, Utah · Utah County · Campground

Overview Maple Bench is a small, quiet and peaceful campground. It is perched on a dramatic camp overlooking the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway, at an elevation of 5,800 feet. Tents and very small campers work best at this campground. Recreation Rainbow and brook trout fishing are popular in the creek below the campground. Can…

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39.96300, -111.69240
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About Maple Bench Campground

Overview Maple Bench is a small, quiet and peaceful campground. It is perched on a dramatic camp overlooking the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway, at an elevation of 5,800 feet. Tents and very small campers work best at this campground. Recreation Rainbow and brook trout fishing are popular in the creek below the campground. Canoeing, floating and kayaking are enjoyed on the calm waters of Maple Lake only a half mile from the campground. Red Lake trail leaves from the upper camping areas by the lake. Facilities 10 rustic camp sites are available with picnic and serving tables and campfire rings with grills. Vault restroom facilities are available. Natural Features White fir, Pinyon Pine and Gambel Oak grow in an open forest that provides shade and shelter for sites. The campgrounds unusual position isn't apparent when you first drive in to place. However an abrupt edge drops-off into the deep canyon carved be Peteetneet Creek. Views from this drop-off look all the way down the valley to the distant town of Payson. Nearby Attractions The Mount Nebo Wilderness Area is adjacent, brimming with beautiful mountain scenery, pristine waters, abundant wildlife, vibrant wildflowers and numerous trail opportunities. The Nebo Loop Scenic Byway stretches 37 miles through high alpine terrain, dense forests and colorful meadows. Devils Kitchen Geological Area can be found along the loop. It offers a 1/2 mile round trip trail to interesting red rock hoodoos. Charges & Cancellations Reservation Cancellations & Changes Cancelling a Reservation: Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Depending on when you cancel in relation to your arrival day, it may be considered a late cancellation (see below). Changing an Existing Reservation: When changes are made prior to the cut-off window: If a customer wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservati

How to Get There

From I-15 take the Payson exit 250. Go South on Main Street to 100 North (1st traffic light) take a left at this light. Continue East to 600 East then take a right in front of Peteetneet Academy. Go South on 600 East for 3.5 miles to the mouth of Payson Canyon. Maple Bench Campground is approximately 1.5 miles from the mouth of the canyon on the right hand side of the road.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Maple Bench Campground

Heading to Maple Bench Campground? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Maple Bench Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Maple Bench Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10048006) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Maple Bench Campground?

From I-15 take the Payson exit 250. Go South on Main Street to 100 North (1st traffic light) take a left at this light. Continue East to 600 East then take a right in front of Peteetneet Academy. Go South on 600 East for 3.5 miles to the mouth of Payson Canyon. Maple Bench Campground is approximately 1.5 miles from the mouth of the canyon on the right hand side of the road.

How do I contact Maple Bench Campground?

You can reach the park at phone: 385-273-1100.