Overview

Hype:

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. 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. 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 trail opportunities.

Time:

Fees: Day Use Fee

Recommended Ages:

0-3
4-11
12-19
20-49
50-69
70+

Recommended Months to Visit:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Features:
  • Non-potable Water - filterable
  • No Fires
  • Lakes and Reservoirs
  • Mountains
  • Picnic Tables
  • Restrooms - Flush
  • Road Access is Paved
  • Access Road is 2WD Accessible
  • Walking Trails
  • Swimming - Outdoor
  • Paddling
  • Beach Access
  • Wildflowers and Vegitation
  • Wildlife and Birding
  • Fishing

Getting There

Navigate to 39.934311, -111.640086.

The lake has two entrance points: one from the main road and one through the campground just off the main road. These entrances are about 12 miles up the canyon when you drive the Nebo Loop from Payson. It costs $7 for a day-use pass through either entrance.

Location

Closest City or Region: Payson Canyon, Utah

Coordinates: 39.934311, -111.640086

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June 5, 2021 Trip Report

By Jeremy Dye

Trip Members

Jeremy Dye, Tara Dye, Savannah Dye, Madilyn Dye, Cooper Dye,

Story

We parked at the north end of the lake and walked around the whole lake on the nature path. The water was extremely low because of the drought. The trail was nice and the little interpretive signs were cool. We were amused to locate several posts where signs used to be.

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Pictures

June 16, 2018 Trip Report

By Jeremy Dye

Trip Members

Jeremy Dye, Tara Dye, Savannah Dye, Madilyn Dye, Cooper Dye, Greg Dye, Laura Dye, Arianne Dye, Miller Dye, Ondylyn Wagner, Killian Wagner, Tia Hammon,

Story

Anthony and Arianne invited us to go camping with them. We had fun talking around the campfire then in the morning we took the canoes out on Big East Lake (one of Payson Lakes).

Pictures