The Payson Lakes Campground is a popular place for camping and day use in the Nebo Loop. There is a parking lot next to the largest of the three Payson lakes, Big East Reservoir. It’s pretty cool to see the wispy clouds reflected in the lake like that.
There is also a paved trail that goes all around the lake. The lake is surrounded by pines and aspens, so it has nice views.
Big East Reservoir a great place to kayak, fish or play in the water.
Later in the season the lake gets a bit green from algae and the lake has lowered enough to be a bit muddy. There is still great fishing, but kayaking or paddle boarding is less appealing in September or October.
Stats: Distance – 1.0 miles roundtrip path around reservoir, 20 yards from parking lot
Approximate hiking time – 30-60 minutes
Elevation gain – 26 feet
Difficulty – Easy
Trail – paved
Bathrooms – At Trailhead
Seasons to hike – May-October
Permits needed – $10 day use per car or National Parks Pass
Pets allowed – Yes
Other nearby hikes are Grotto Falls, Devil’s Kitchen, Salt Creek Canyon Falls and Escalante Cross.
