The best star host campgrounds near Brighton, Ontario

The small city of Brighton is a nature lover’s paradise. Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, it is the perfect base for cyclists eager to tackle the Waterfront Trail, a 1,000-mile trek that hugs the lakeshore. Hikers can also enjoy waterfront views, especially if they check out the Proctor Park Conservation Area or the Heritage Trail. Presqu’ile Provincial Park is just a few minutes away and offers an excellent full-service campground.

99% (571) • 44 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Brighton

The small city of Brighton is a nature lover’s paradise. Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, it is the perfect base for cyclists eager to tackle the Waterfront Trail, a 1,000-mile trek that hugs the lakeshore. Hikers can also enjoy waterfront views, especially if they check out the Proctor Park Conservation Area or the Heritage Trail. Presqu’ile Provincial Park is just a few minutes away and offers an excellent full-service campground.

99% (571) • 44 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Brighton

1. Southern Heights Acres

96%

(14)

33km from Brighton · 20 sites · Tents, RVs

Our land is very private and beautifully sheltered by trees all around the campsite. There is an open field as well that also has trees on the outskirts. A video is available upon request! Fenella is a small village about 7 min away that has a large convenience/ grocery/Beer store as well as gas stations and Canabis beyond belief ! Go carts, food trucks and the best Butter Tart Factory as well! Warkworth is a town east of us about 20 min and Cobourg is 20 min South of us. Many shopping experiences available. Primrose Donkey Sanctuary is down the road a few minutes which we highly suggest visiting. Look their hours up before planning a visit! We have easy access up our road about 1 km to the Northumberland Trails where you can ride your horses, cycle, ride your ATVs,walk or jog. We have goats and can provide goat walks on our own trails. Goat walks are about 30 minutes generally and $15 per walk. Our own Free Range eggs are available for $7/doz as well as firewood for $10 per bundle Dogs are welcome as long as they are constantly on a leash, as we have chickens that free range! We ask that you bring your own water and hydro please. We hosted 35-40 endurance horses and their riders in August of 2022! We welcome tents and all trailers!

2. Sunset Hollow

98%

(45)

32km from Brighton · 2 sites · Lodging

Come and experience the natural beauty of Trent Hills!! Our property is 2.7 acres and is nestled amongst rolling farmers fields down a gravel country road. We are situated approximately 10 minutes outside of the small town of Campbellford, that is your quintessential rural, small Ontario town. Trent Hills is primarily an agricultural and recreational area. There is lots to do and see and you will not be disappointed. One of Campbellford's biggest attractions is the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge with many hiking trails throughout Ferris Provincial Park. We also have Westben Theatre around the corner from our homestead, The Heritage Museum, the World's Finest Chocolate Factory and so much more to explore! Enjoy a rustic glamping experience in a large canvas bell tent overlooking farmers fields with a stunning sunset at night. Sunset Hollow is fully equipped with solar power, wash up facility, fire pit, eating area and all the essentials to cook some tasty home cooked meals, and all the cosy accommodations to create a truly unforgettable experience. You will also get to experience our homestead where you will enjoy bunnies, guinea hens, chickens which produce fresh eggs daily, and goats! Come experience the small town and rural homestead living!

3. Ballyduff Escapes

100%

(24)

68km from Brighton · 1 site · Tent, RV

Here we have a beautiful lot suitable for camping with your family or a large group. Five minutes off of highway 115 and 20 minutes north of the 401, just outside of the cute community of Bethany, Ontario. Your surrounded by nature trails and farms and close to the beautiful Ganaraska Forest. You can also explore the Ballyduff Trails and the Fleet Creek Natural area lookout. You also have direct access to ATV trails and minutes from the Black Diamond Golf Club.

4. Ranger on Rice!

100%

(7)

38km from Brighton · 1 site · Lodging

Quiet Family Friendly Campfire wood available for extra cost Power on site BBQ included (bring your own propane or rent a tank from owner) Bring your own linen and towels Great Fishing Biking paths are very close Golfing accessible by water or short drive(extra cost) Horseback riding is 4 minutes away(extra charge) Float plane rides are available from dock(extra charge) Guided fishing (extra cost) So much to do or just relax! Learn more about this land: Enjoy a quiet, private beach front campsite on Rice Lake with all the amenities! Lots of great restaurants on the lake and golf is around the corner. Keene is a little village you can access by car or boat just minutes away. Parking right on site. Please note that quiet time 10:00 pm -7:00am

5. Forest Time Retreat

100%

(14)

40km from Brighton · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome and thank you for your interest in Forest Time Retreat. We offer an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful and nature based get-away. Stay in a Rustic Bunkie situated a distance from the road surrounded by trees and walking trails over 60 acres. The bunkie features a queen mattress, 4 windows and if desired, the mattress can be rolled up to accommodate a centre table for card playing. There is no hydro, indoor water or heat in the bunkie. ** NOTE - be sure to enter the full address in your GPS for accurate directions. Outdoor amenities include: propane barbeque, firepit, countertop for food prep, cast iron frying pan and pot, plates, bowls, mugs, and flatware. A sink is on site for dishwashing and hygiene using non-potable water which we provide. A pit outhouse is available; sorry, no shower yet. Bring your own linens, pillows, sleeping bag and water for drinking. Since you'll be in a nature environment, bug spray is a good idea. Be mindful of identifying poison ivy too. Due to invasive insects, please do not bring firewood - we have firewood on site. The grounds are an excellent location for walking, photography, writing, drawing, painting, forest bathing, meditation or just to chillax. For those looking for local attractions: Westben Theatre, Launch your fishing boat or kayak at Trent River Monument (9 km from site), Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge, Seymour Conservation Area (with a quarry for swimming), Dooher's Bakery, Empire Cheese, Church-Key Brewing, Fogorig Brewing and several food and restaurant establishments are available in Campbellford area. If you forgot to pack something, Giant Tiger, Dollarama, Stedman's, Sharpe's or No Frills may offer what you need. Only 13 km to Campbellford or 12 km to Havelock.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

N

Nanyue

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ballyduff Escapes

Wonderful place for weekend getaway! Excellent privacy. Have garbage cans which is a huge plus. Most sites don’t offer them. Well decorated washroom, with sink and water. Off leash friendly, our dog was very happy. Most importantly there is this beautiful pavilion, with lights at night and big enough for at least 10+ ppl. Everything is just perfect.

S

Saverio

October 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Ballyduff Escapes

Beautiful, well maintained site. Great for big groups or off leash pets. Amanda has put a lot of work into making guests feel comfortable and welcome on her property. The outhouse, gazebo, volleyball nets and night lights all over the site are great. Also very close to Ganaraska forest for hiking trails. She was also very respectful of our privacy. Will be booking again!👍🏻

matthew

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Forest Time Retreat

Had a wonderful stay. Super private. Amazing fire pit and lots of wood available to burn.

First light on the Sunset Hollow canvas tent.

A

Aman

October 2025

2 nights at Sunset Hollow

What a magical place! The property is absolutely beautiful and exactly what we needed for a little getaway. Emma was a gem and made sure we had everything we needed! The animals were a great bonus and we loved getting to feed the goats and chickens! Will definitely come again!

J

Jason

September 2025

3 nights at Ranger on Rice!

The type of person you are and your expectations of what should be…determines how you accept your stay anywhere you go!!! I can ABSOLUTELY say that my stay with my son at Tara’s piece of heaven on earth…known to most as…land…was wayyyy more than what I hoped for!!! There was so much going on around us…and you know what…we didn’t even notice a thing going on…unless we wanted to notice something going on! Plain n Simple!!! We were on a FAMILY owned PARADISE…with amazing people all around…no matter which way you poke a stick at it! Peter…you’re a great man and just from our talks…I want you to know that I will forever be at your beck and call…WHEREVER and WHENEVER you need ANY sort of help! Will most definitely be returning and for at least a month buddy!!!

S

Sumin

September 2025

2 nights at Sunset Hollow

The camping site was so beautiful and cozy. They have some animals and organic vegetables in their farm. They gave us welcome gifts as fresh eggs and tomatoes. That was very cute gifts. It’s gonna be little hard to shower tho since it’s outdoor shower booth. They have everything setup for cook so you don’t need to bring the kitchen stuffs. Overall, I’d love to come back but maybe when it’s warmer.

Chris

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Ranger on Rice!

Had a great stay! Peaceful, rejuvenating simple days. Pros: + The RV is well furnished and comfortable. Sink, flush toilet, full fridge and even microwave! + Close to the lake, great if you have a boat. + Good fishing, little weedy but a good time. + Everything was clean. + Everyone was very friendly and accommodating! Cons: - The space is quite open and not very private if you're hoping for a "camping" feeling experience. - The trees are by the lake so there isn't any shade or shelter. I'd recommend bringing a canopy or beach tent. - The RV is older and not completely bug proof, our swatter got plenty of use. Overall quite pleased and highly recommend staying here. Consider the RV a significant upgrade to a tent, get out on the lake if you can, you'll have a great time!

J

Jaykumar

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Forest Time Retreat

We had an amazing stay at this cabin! It was spotless, cozy, and had everything we needed, from a fully equipped kitchen to firewood. The host was super friendly and thoughtful, which made our trip even more enjoyable. This place is truly 10/10 — we’ll definitely come back again and recommend it to friends and family. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a peaceful getaway!

S

Sandra

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Forest Time Retreat

We had an amazing time here. Thank was very relaxing. Very private and quiet. The hosts are fantastic friendly people as well. We will be booking again before the end of the year

Zane

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hollow

amazing piece of property, lovely family, and a relaxing glamping experience. Thank ya kindly!

Celine

August 2025

21 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Southern Heights Acres

Beautiful. Amazing host. And so fun to walk with the goats!

M

Moira

August 2025

With pets

3 nights at Ranger on Rice!

We really enjoyed our stay, Peter was prompt at helping us when we needed it. This is a great place if you like peace and quiet. We enjoyed watching the sunset over the hill and the sunrise over the lake. Lots of geese and other birds to watch and listen to.

A

Antoine

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hollow

Super nice and calm place where we find peace with my girlfriend! Everything works perfectly, had a lot of fun there, would recommand 100%.

Lisa

August 2025

With pets

4 nights at Ranger on Rice!

Lovely place! Definitely worth the price. Beautiful views of the lake, fields, and farm. Fishing and swimming was so fun. The trailer and matress was very comfortable. They have fans in the trailer, but If you open the windows, there is a lovely cross breeze. There is a microwave for convenience and a fridge. They also provide a BBQ outside. I did bring my Coleman stove too. I could have easily stayed there for longer, wish I did! The owners were so friendly and accommodating. Everything was amazing!!! I would DEFINITELY go again!

D

Dewald

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Forest Time Retreat

Great place, lots of space and beautiful environment. Hosts are kind hightly recommend.

A

Ash

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hollow

My partner and I stayed on Emma's land and really enjoyed our stay. The animals added a fun element to the camping that made it a unique experience. Also, having a nearby kitchenette was helpful for on sight cooking. We enjoyed many things about the property, and location of it too. This is a great place to stay with kids and family and I would love to stay there again in the future!

J

John

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Ballyduff Escapes

Super cute spot! Amanda has put a lot of effort in the little things - covered deck with a big picnic table, volleyball net with a ball and some badminton gear, lovely little outhouse that was very clean (and well lit!) Would definitely stay again!

Vlad

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Forest Time Retreat

This is a rare case when I want to come back. Usually I do not come back in previous places. All information,posted on the WEB-site,is true and actual. Michaelene and Paul are very helpful people. Some additional information:1). There are moscitos,but not so much. My rate is 3/10. "Ten" is highest level of moscitos. Anyway I recommend you to take repellents. 2). There is a "kitchen" outside,under the roof. There are BBQ stoves + "normal" stove (gas balloons). 3). Yes,there is not a water pipe,but it's enough water in containers with pumps. It's not a big deal. Bring your own clear water for drinking. 4). Perhaps this site might be a little bit stressfull for people,who have never been in real rustic area. For us,as people being closer to Mother-nature,last weekend was a gift ! We forgot about stresses and reset our minds. We did not want to come back in Toronto. 5). The site is save,quite and calm. It'slocated in the forest and no neigbours around. Thanks a lot Michaelene and Paul for everything !

M

Matt

August 2025

With pets

3 nights at Ranger on Rice!

We stayed over the August long weekend and had a great time! We’re usually tent campers, so having a trailer to stay in felt like a real upgrade. The trailer is older and a little rough around the edges, and the water out front is weedy—but that’s pretty typical for Rice Lake. That said, we brought our kayaks and spent a couple of relaxing days on the water. The shallow entry was perfect for lounging in beach chairs, with nice sandy footing underfoot. Peter and his wife were wonderful hosts—welcoming, helpful, and always close by if we needed anything. One of our favourite moments was watching the sunset over the barn and farmer’s field in the distance. Absolutely beautiful. If you’re expecting a luxury cottage, this might not be for you—but if you’re after a peaceful and private spot that feels like a step up from camping, this place is a gem. Come with the right expectations, and you’ll leave relaxed and happy.

A

Andy

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Forest Time Retreat

Very private site and well equipped outdoor kitchen area. Friendly owners. Would go again

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best star host camping near Brighton guide

Where to go

Presqu’ile Provincial Park

Presqu’ile Provincial Park has fantastic beaches (including the popular Salt Point Beach), pristine wetlands, and lush forests. As such, it’s an excellent spot for hiking, swimming, fishing, and birdwatching. The Marsh Trail, in particular, is a prime location for birdwatching. Photographers will want to check out the historic lighthouses scattered around the park’s shores.

Sandbanks Provincial Park

Sandbanks is one of the province’s largest and most popular parks, famous for its expansive namesake sandy beaches. It’s an excellent spot for windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Camping options include multiple campgrounds with RV spaces, two large group camping spots, and cottages. The nearby communities are well known for their art galleries and antiques shops, and the surrounding area is home to many wineries.

Cricklewood Farm

Plenty of outdoor, family-friendly fun awaits at this local landmark. Cricklewood Farm is a fifth-generation operation located just outside of Brighton. The site is a combination of a working farm and a play zone, offering a corn maze, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, and market stand, plus pick-your-own raspberries, pumpkins, and squash.

When to go

Sandbanks and Presqu’ile provincial parks, two of the main attractions in the region around Brighton, are open year-round, but full services are only offered from late April to late October. Canada Day weekend is popular at both locations, and summer campsites at Sandbanks often sell out when reservations are opened five months in advance. In Brighton itself, the annual Applefest takes place in September and features live music, a parade, rides, and delicious food.