About PAYSON LAKES GUARD STATION
Overview Payson Lakes Guard Station is located in the Uinta National Forest, approximately 13 miles south of Payson, Utah, along the Mount Nebo Scenic Byway. The Guard Station was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935 as part of the New Deal Program. The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest offers the cabin for advance reservation so visitors can enjoy an experience similar to that of early Forest Rangers and their families. Recreation The nearby Payson Lakes Recreation Area offers great canoeing and kayaking. Anglers enjoy fishing for rainbow and brown trout. There are many nearby trails for hiking, mountain biking and equestrian use.Facilities Payson Lakes Guard Station can accommodate up to 8 overnight guests: 4 in the main cabin and 4 in the bunk house. Up to 7 additional visitors may join during the day.Parking: Space for up to 5 family vehicles. Vehicles must stay on pavementHorses: The adjacent pasture can hold up to 8 horses. Stay Limits: Minimum stay is 2 nights, 3 nights on holidays, maximum is 7 nights.What to bring: Guests need to bring their own bedding, plates, and utensils, pots, pans, etc. Pets: Not allowed.Firewood: Bring your own or purchase at the campground. Collecting firewood is not allowed.Check-in: Guests must check in with the Payson Lakes Campground Host, who will escort them to the cabinNatural Features The Guard Station is nestled in a forest of aspen and Douglas fir trees at an elevation of 8,000 feet. The Payson Lakes area includes McClelland, Box and Big East Lakes. Summer wildflowers are abundant. A variety of wildlife makes its home around the lakes. Nearby Attractions A popular day-use area is located on the shore of Big East Lake, with a small swim beach, picnic tables and flush toilets. A paved nature path begins at the parking area and circles the lake. The Mount Nebo Wilderness Area is adjacent, brimming with beautiful mountain scenery, pristine waters, abundant wildlife, vibrant summer wildflowers and numerous t
How to Get There
From I-15, take exit 250 toward north Payson/Salem and proceed south on Main Street to 100 North/Highway 198. Travel east to 600 East. Turn south onto 600 East, which becomes the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway/Payson Canyon Road. Travel south along the Nebo Loop Road 015 until you see the Payson Lakes Guard Station sign on the right. Proceed up the driveway and through the gate.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
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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 PAYSON LAKES GUARD STATION
Heading to PAYSON LAKES GUARD STATION? 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 PAYSON LAKES GUARD STATION?
No central reservation system listed for PAYSON LAKES GUARD STATION. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251711) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to PAYSON LAKES GUARD STATION?
From I-15, take exit 250 toward north Payson/Salem and proceed south on Main Street to 100 North/Highway 198. Travel east to 600 East. Turn south onto 600 East, which becomes the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway/Payson Canyon Road. Travel south along the Nebo Loop Road 015 until you see the Payson Lakes Guard Station sign on the right. Proceed up the driveway and through the gate.
How do I contact PAYSON LAKES GUARD STATION?
You can reach the park at phone: SPANISH FORK RANGER DISTRICT 801-798-3571 OR UTAH RECREATION COMPANY 385-273-1100.
References & Official Resources
