The best camping near Hamilton

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Coming across the Burlington Skyway, crossing the western end of Lake Ontario, most people get one image of this mid-sized city—the roaring industrial production of their steel mills, which produce 60 percent of the nation’s steel. But you’ll find plenty of places to get outdoors here. Divided by the Niagara Escarpment, 120 waterfalls tumble within the city limits, and the 890-kilometre Bruce Trail winds through town, right along the ridge. And they have plenty of waterfront, too. Rent a bike and cruise along the lake at West Harbour, stroll the trails at Confederation Beach Park, or enjoy a concert at the grassy natural amphitheatre at Bayfront Park. Then, take your pick of excellent campgrounds, all within easy driving distance.

97% (1.5K) 324 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hamilton

Grindstone Creek Farm in Burlington

1. Grindstone Creek Farm in Burlington

100%
(17)
8.3km from Hamilton · 1 site
We are a small working farm on six acres with horses, goats, pigs, chickens and ducks. Guests will enjoy staying in our cosy barn loft and wake up to the sights and sounds of the farm animals all around. Our farm is located in the greenbelt with nature preserves, the Bruce Trail, and excellent hiking and biking trails within walking distance. The perfect place to stay for nature enthusiasts visiting Burlington, Hamilton, Waterdown or Dundas which are all just minutes away.
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Husky Alpaca Ranch

2. Husky Alpaca Ranch

90%
(39)
24km from Hamilton · 1 site · Tent, RV
Century farm, cropped fields, naturally filled pond. Some bushes at the back that are home to a wide variety of wildlife. Learn more about this land: Camp amongst open skies, perfect for star viewing at night. The semi-private site provides an open area to pitch your tent or set up your small camper. There is a pond on-site that has fish in it. You will hear the bullfrogs and cicadas in the evening. Wake up to the stunning sunrises and fall asleep to sunsets over the fields. Fires are permitted within local regulations. 4-wheel drive is recommended. There is cell reception in the area. There are opportunities to visit the alpacas and huskies up at the barn! The towns of Caledonia, Cayuga, and Binbrook are nearby for all your camping needs. Hiking, fishing, and kayaking (near to Grand River) opportunities in the area as well!
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Faron Woods Farm

3. Faron Woods Farm

100%
(14)
27km from Hamilton · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to Our Farm Retreat Escape the noise and reconnect with nature on our family-run hobby farm. Nestled in the countryside, our farm offers a peaceful place to unwind while enjoying the company of a variety of friendly farm animals. Guests can stroll the property and meet our resident animals, including our fluffy Highland cow, curious goats, colourful peafowl, ducks, and chickens. Depending on the season, you may also spot goslings, chicks, quail, and other farm babies growing up around the farm. Our farm store features locally grown hazelnuts, handmade woodcrafts, and other farm-made treasures. Whether you’re looking for a quiet camping getaway, a chance to introduce children to farm life, or simply a place to enjoy starry skies and fresh country air, you’ll find it here. Amenities * Spacious camping area * Fire pit access (where permitted) * Farm animal viewing and interaction (private viewings additional cost) * Walking areas around the property * Farm store with local products and handmade goods * Family-friendly environment * Dark skies for stargazing * large pond for fishing and paddle boarding Things to Know This is a working farm, so you’ll hear the occasional rooster announcement, peafowl commentary, and goat opinions throughout your stay. We believe that’s part of the charm. Come slow down, breathe deeply, and experience a little slice of farm life.
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Goats and Gardens

4. Goats and Gardens

98%
(26)
30km from Hamilton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Goats and Gardens, our small working hobbyfarm where goats graze in the pasture, chickens wander through the grass, gardens grow with the seasons, and there's always something going on. Stay your way — camp inside our one-acre animal pasture or choose our private farmstay suite for four walls and a comfortable bed. Your stay is group-exclusive. We host only one booking group at a time. Book the campsite or suite and the other won't be rented to another party. Groups are welcome to book both. We think some of the best moments happen when there's simply room for them to happen. A new discovery. Hunting for frogs by the pond. Watching the goats wander past. A conversation by the campfire. Or just spending time together somewhere a little different. We make space for you to make memories ... The pasture campsite includes access to a hot outdoor shower, clean composting toilet and complimentary firewood. The farmstay suite offers space to sleep, relax and prepare simple meals, plus a private indoor washroom and access to the same outdoor shower. However you stay, the off-grid cabin in the pasture is available to enjoy — escape the bugs, spend a rainy afternoon or simply watch the animals wander by. This is a real hobbyfarm, not a resort. The animals, gardens and seasons set their own rhythm, so no two visits are quite the same. Explore, ask questions, spend time with the animals or simply enjoy the farm your own way. Goats and Gardens especially suits families introducing children to farm life and camping, couples looking for something different, and people who enjoy slowing down. Some guests come for their first adventure. Others return to see what's growing, what's changed and what the animals are up to this time. Come make our little corner of the countryside your own for a while. Nearby: Emerald Lake Water Park — less than 1 km Fletcher’s Creek Ecological Preserve — 1 km Valens Conservation Area — 3 km Aberfoyle Tim Horton's — 6 km Aberfoyle Antique Market — 7 km (Sundays) African Lion Safari — 8 km Westfield Heritage Museum — 10 km Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory — 19 km
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Fitz Farm Manor Camping

5. Fitz Farm Manor Camping

100%
(15)
31km from Hamilton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Fitz Farm Manor — a peaceful countryside retreat built with love and care. After Gerry and his dad sold their garden centre and nursery, we built this home and raised our four boys here (they like to joke they were our first Airbnb guests — the non-paying kind!). Now retired, Gerry from lawn care and Rosemary from managing a seniors’ complex, we spend our days gardening, harvesting vegetables, and preserving the bounty of our land. We love hosting friends and family, and you might meet a few during your stay. Our property is nestled in a quiet rural area where mornings begin with birdsong and evenings settle into the gentle chorus of crickets and tree frogs. A walk down our peaceful road takes you past dairy farms and fields of corn, soybeans, and hay — often without passing a single car. The grounds are designed for gathering and relaxation. Each summer, we host family reunions and church picnics with up to 75 guests enjoying the heated pool, hammocks, patio, and spacious lawn. Campers have access to a large grassy area bordered by maples, oaks, and a wooded stretch to the west — perfect for pitching tents or parking campers. Amenities include: - Heated swimming pool with pool toys - Washroom with hot/cold water and shower (just inside the patio doors) - Outdoor sink with potable water - Tables, chairs, picnic tables, and a barbecue - Children’s slide and a hammock structure that holds up to 8 hammocks Whether you're here for a relaxing getaway or a work assignment, we hope you’ll feel the warmth and welcome of Fitz Farm Manor. Come unwind, explore, and make yourself at home. --- Let me know if you'd like a shorter version for social media or a punchier headline to go with it!
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Shiloh Barn Glamping

6. Shiloh Barn Glamping

100%
(73)
34km from Hamilton · 1 site
Escape to Shiloh Barn & Glamping, a peaceful 13-acre retreat where nature, comfort, and adventure come together. Nestled among open fields and fresh country air, this beautiful property invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and truly unwind. Stay in our cozy bell tent, thoughtfully set up with a comfortable queen bed for 2 people -perfect for a restful night under the stars. Want to bring friends? You’re welcome to add up to two additional guests who can set up their own tent for a small fee OR if you have kids, you can bring your own bedding and there is space in the tent for them as well. Spend your days exploring nearby bike trails, lakes, and climbing spots, or indulge in some of the area’s amazing local restaurants. Back on the property, our charming barn offers a serene space to relax, read, journal, or meditate - your own little oasis of calm. Planning a longer escape? Enjoy 25% off your second night when you book a two-night stay, just reach out and we’ll send you your exclusive discount code. We can’t wait to welcome you to a space designed for rest, connection, and a little bit of magic ✨ Shiloh Barn & Glamping awaits.
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The Farm

7. The Farm

99%
(267)
34km from Hamilton · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
It was 1984 when John found his ‘diamond in the rough’, 20 acres with an orchard on the outskirts of Brantford. O.K., so the house was nothing to write home about but perfect for building a construction yard…no neighbors except for the family across the road that used their property to build log homes. By 1987 the old house was gone, a new one was being built and a shop for working on heavy equipment had been located about 200 ft. from Dr. the back door. It wasn’t until 1996 that things changed very much. Yes, the property around the house had benefitted from a wide array of trees and shrubs that John saved from the construction/demolition jobs he had done and that still thrive today but no big projects (except for equipment purchases) were ongoing. A chance meeting with the neighbor across the road one day resulted in the following dinner conversation, ‘How was your day’ I chirped. ‘Not bad, so-and-so didn’t come in; the truck broke down and I took it for repair; I bought the property across the road, and oh, yeah I’ll need a ride after dinner to pick up the truck’ was John’s casual reply. ‘What was that’? I pressed. ‘Yes, I need a ride after dinner to pick up the truck’ he repeated with a bit more volume. Of course like anyone, I had questions, ‘Do you want peas or corn with dinner’? ‘What time do you want to go to get the truck’? ‘The property across the road’, 10 acres, still has the 4 storey barn with its twin tiled silos which was built in 1914 and the big white house with wrap around porch that once was home to a Doctor and his family. Built so the Doctor could see his patients in the front with the family living in the back was very common in the day. Things remained relatively peaceful until 2000 when after studying alpacas for more than 6 years I bought our first three. Back in 2000 alpacas and llamas were not frequently seen on farms and because they could been seen from the road they received A LOT of attention. People driving by would stop and ask about them, ask if they could take a picture or two and that was when I would hear over and over again ‘You have a beautiful place here, I wish I/we could stay’. Well, if you want to visit and stay in the city it’s doable, we call it a hotel. But visiting a farm and staying well, that isn’t so easy. Each year we would see more and more families coming to ‘The Farm’ as they would call it. Some came to see the alpacas and horses, some came for a stroll and to check out the horse drawn milk and bread delivery wagons, some to have family birthday parties, others to have engagement/wedding/Christmas card pictures…and so many asked if there was any way they could spend a day or two. In 2021 during a conversation with a friend I mentioned we were in the process of gutting the 1100 sq. ft. space downstairs and turning it into an Airbnb! Right away she said, ‘I don’t know why you don’t have a Hipcamp? You’ve got that great area by the new barn that Hipcampers would love’! After a little investigation I found out what a Hipcamp was and the rest is history.
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Boondocking on 135 Acres

8. Boondocking on 135 Acres

99%
(310)
38km from Hamilton · 1 site
Welcome to Boondocking on 135 Acres! The property spans across 135 acres, and includes well-kept woodlands, groomed open fields, treed edges and water views. Our boondocking site is located in the middle of one of our private open fields. THIS SITE DOES NOT HAVE A WASHROOM. It is perfect for guests travelling in a self contained travel vehicle. THIS SITE DOES NOT HAVE A WASHROOM. Tent camping is also welcome in this field, but guests need to bring their own portable camping toilets as we do not allow the digging of "cat holes". The land is well maintained and the site was thoughtfully chosen, but the wildlife doesn’t know that! You can expect to witness deer sightings, rabbits, a variety of birds, and if you’re quiet and lucky, so much more! NOTE REGARDING CAMPSITES: In the past, we did have a number of campsites located in the woods (as pictured in many of our past guest photos), however, due to unforeseen circumstances, we regrettably had to close them down. We invite you to stop in for a night or stay with us for a few peaceful nights.
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T's Pond

9. T's Pond

91%
(138)
61km from Hamilton · 2 sites
Like most folks who’ve been bitten by the water ski bug, I dreamed of having my own lake and when I met my life partner Harald, an elite slalom skier, my search began in earnest. By a combination of good timing and good luck, I was able to make that dream come true and in the spring of 2014 I acquired this land with the hopes of building my dream water ski lake on it. 7 years later, we have a thriving water ski club and are constantly making improvements to the site. We now have decided to add some sites for rent to share this incredible property with others outside the water ski community. Site #1 is a small cabin that sleeps 3 and site #2 is a small houseboat that has been converted to a bunkie. Onsite activities include use of a canoe and paddleboard. Use of a kid's swingset and olympic trampoline. Swimming and fishing. Pets are welcome, campfires are permitted.
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Sweet Pond Camping

10. Sweet Pond Camping

94%
(33)
41km from Hamilton · 1 site · Tent, RV
A peaceful nature space with a large magical pond (the size of an olympic swimming pool) to bask in, plus a 44 acre forest to roam. You will have access to clean water to swim in (no soaps or detergents in the pond please, we also swim in the pond regularly so we might see you in there, the pond is about 40 meters from our house, no fishing in the pond, no camping within 30 meters of the pond), clean water to drink + wash dishes in, lots of safe flat parking for cars and camper vans, lots of safe flat grass for tents, a giant forest, views of a few beautiful horses doing their own thing on our pastures (do not feed them or go within the fenced off horse areas), loads of birds, dragonflies, butterflies and more! We require quiet after 9pm, and before 9am. No excessive substance use please. No substance use if you are going to swim. Private simple camping toilet/outhouse setup with view of nature. Water for washing hands. No shower. Any garbage/recycling is your responsibility to clean up and take with you! Please do not leave any garbage for us to deal with! We moved here because we thought it was beautiful, and we hope to share that with others. We live here, and enjoy the water and land every day. Looking forward to welcoming you and sharing our space!
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Bruce Trail Bunkie

11. Bruce Trail Bunkie

98%
(41)
44km from Hamilton · 1 site
Two acres with direct access to the Bruce Trail and the Greenbelt cycling route. We are right across the road from the Limehouse Conservation Area, an access point to the trail, with a loft bunkie and an outhouse for all your glamping needs. Spend your days exploring the trails by foot or the roads by bike and end up back here at the end of the day for an evening by the fire, with sprawling views of rolling pastures and valley lands and the feel of the wind in the pines.
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ARKA, Tiny House

12. ARKA, Tiny House

96%
(13)
45km from Hamilton · 1 site
Tucked in the heart of Halton Hills, our tiny house, is a handcrafted gazebo-style cabana nestled beside a scenic water stream and surrounded by 16 acres of private forest. Located just 45 minutes from Toronto, it offers the perfect blend of serenity and convenience. Enjoy a peaceful river with a waterfall, abundant wildlife, and natural beauty, while staying close to local shops, restaurants, and amenities. The Space: This tiny house offers stunning forest and water views with a cozy, open-concept design. Inside, you'll find: • Kitchenette: Equipped with essentials, including a toaster oven, electric cooktop, French press, Starbucks coffee, teas, and basic condiments. • Living Area: A convenient sitting space with a bar countertop overlooking the river. • Sleeping Area: A full-size mattress covered with a waterproof sanitize cover with a couple of blankets and pillows will be provided in the sleeping area. Hosts recommend that guests bring their own towels, bedding sets, or sleeping bags. The mattress is double or full size. • Bathroom: Since the tiny home is off grid there is just a sink with a faucet pump and a compost toilet. There is no shower. • Climate Control: A heat pump system ensures comfort with both heating and air conditioning. Explore nearby conservation areas like Limehouse, Silvercreek, Terracota, and Rockwood for hiking, canoeing, snowshoeing and more, or simply relax by the dock and soak in the tranquility of this one-of-a-kind retreat. This tiny home is a really perfect shelter that can serve different purposes such as a base camp for photographers, and influencers, that work enjoying outdoor activities, for example.
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Quiet Family Horse Farm

13. Quiet Family Horse Farm

100%
(20)
45km from Hamilton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our quiet family horse farm!We are located on a 50-acre horse ranch in Dunnville, ON. You’ll be surrounded by wildlife such as deer, birds, and coyotes. You’ll love the tranquility of this place and as well, the occasional howling of the coyotes in the evenings! This location is minutes to local beaches, Lake Erie, and Golf courses. 5 mins to the popular restaurant on the lake.There are trails on-site for hiking and many activities to do in the area including fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife watching.  This is intended to be a back-to-nature tranquil experience, so no parties, no events, quiet hours are from 10 am to 7 am. Please do not enter any horse paddock or feed animals.We hope you enjoy the farm as much as we do and we look forward to hosting you!
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Tiny House in the Big Woods

14. Tiny House in the Big Woods

100%
(32)
49km from Hamilton · 1 site
Follow the dancing squirrels and singing birds to find this Tiny House in the Big Woods... a land where crickets sing as the sun goes down and chipmunks dance in the light of the moon. Where the summer night wind whispers gently through the trees and the stars glisten in the scented night skies. Next to the Tiny house is a meadow brimming with life; sweet apple blossoms, wild flowers, and honey bees to delight the senses. Quietly nestled near a spring fed pond brimming with fish, turtles, and frogs; this Tiny House is a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. With close proximity to Toronto, this is off-grid unplugged-relaxation at it's finest. The space is functional, very rustic, and a bit of a work in progress. There is a wood stove to keep the space somewhat warm in the cooler months, a 2 burner propane cook top stove and kitchen essentials. There's a BBQ and grill over the Fire Pit for your cooking needs. It is a 5-7 minute walk from the parking spot to get to the cabin. ABOUT THE SPACE: - camping essentials are provided - BBQ with propane - 5 gallons of drinking water will be provided - no running water/showers - your own private fire pit with grill - firewood is available - urine-diverting composting toilet - Coyotes live around here - Our family lives on the property, so there may be sounds of children playing   Nearby attractions include hiking and swimming at Rockwood Conservation area, Bellwood Lake, hiking along the Bruce Trail in Limehouse, mountain biking at Kelso Conservation area just 20 min drive away. Lovely walks and strolls at Scotsdale Farm.  Visit the quaint hamlet of Eden Mills. The possibilities are endless.
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Secluded Starry Nights

15. Secluded Starry Nights

95%
(148)
50km from Hamilton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in the hamlet of Mosborough on 113 acres, this is a working farm with open fields, an old orchard, and 27 acres of forest. We are a short drive to Guelph Lake, the Elora Gorge, Guelph to Goderich rail trail, and a 25-minute drive to St Jacob's farmers market. And a 1.4 km walk to a small country market and bakery. A great site for families that you can call home and plan day trips around the area, or hang out at the campsite. Firewood is available for purchase on-site. We have 3 campsites that are spread out on 4 acres of grass. 1 site is used for temporary summer trailers, 2 are for camping. Pets are welcome, but keep them on a leash. Please remember to remove all garbage and recycling from campsites, a compost bin is available on site by the garden. A portable toilet is available from May 15 to the end of thanksgiving weekend in October. And please note that we are located beside an active rail line that is used by the Go Train, VIA Rail and freighters, there are trains that pass throughout the night. A 2 night stay is required for summer weekends. We look forward to hosting you!
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Mountain Farm

16. Mountain Farm

98%
(45)
51km from Hamilton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
A beautiful, peaceful oasis with 7 acres on the Niagara Escarpment, in the middle of Silver Creek Conservation Area. Hike in from the Bruce Trail (the Roberts Side Trail runs to the property). Enjoy our trees and gardens that surround our charming old stone farmhouse. Trampoline available (with permission). Trees, field, wildlife, campfire - our small piece of paradise. Near horseback riding. Close to Georgetown, Glen Williams, and Erin. Camper vans and RVs may park in driveway (not long term), and there is room for several tents. If you are through-hiking and want some meat or other goodies for the campfire, we have a grill available. Let us know what you'd like a week in advance, and we'll have it ready for you at cost (cash only, please).
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Coyote Song Farm & Forest

17. Coyote Song Farm & Forest

94%
(18)
53km from Hamilton · 1 site
Camp in comfort on our vegetable and flower farm in a furnished bell tent. Nestled in the backfield we have created a cozy spot for a farm stay escape. Our 5 m diameter bell tent has a queen-sized bed so there is no sleeping on the ground here! Our camp kitchen is fully equipped with all the pots, pans dishes, and utensils you need to cook up a fabulous meal on the fire or gas BBQ. Our outhouse has a compost toilet and is as beautiful as we could make it! We supply your firewood so all you need to bring is food and clothes and a good book!
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Heartwood Farm & Cidery

18. Heartwood Farm & Cidery

99%
(106)
56km from Hamilton · 3 sites
"This place is magical!" Since moving here in 2004, Val and Brent have worked with the natural diversity of this 42 acre farm to create an ecological haven. Heartwood has always welcomed friends to experience the joys of a regenerative farm life -- our overnight farmstay program offers an adult-focused retreat experience. When you arrive, we’ll give you a warm Heartwood welcome, invite you for a glass of cider on the woodland patio, and provide enough of a farm orientation to be able to create your own adventure. Cuddle the piglets, explore our woodland and pasture trails, hang out in the barn for some farmyard therapy, pick fruit while walking the forest garden labyrinth, and if you're curious about the life of a farmer, tag along with Val to do the chores and dig deeper into the wonder of regenerative agriculture. We have three separate sites for our canvas platform tents. Sunrise Suite and Orchard Oasis are nestled between our pastures and orchards, offering farm life immersion. Spruce Sanctuary offers more seclusion and privacy in one of our farm's woodland zones. All of our tents come fully furnished with a super-comfy queen-sized bed, bedside tables, and furnished patio. There is also a fire-pit, with firewood supplied at your site for your evening campfire and stargazing.
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Foof’s Forest

19. Foof’s Forest

98%
(80)
60km from Hamilton · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come set up camp on our peaceful property in a rural area just outside of Niagara Falls/Welland/Port Colborne, our space has one firepit, a pond, and plenty of trees. Pets are welcome, however, we have chickens and 1 dog on our property, so your pets must be leashed, and we respectfully ask you to pick up after your animals. There is one outhouse on the property, a picnic table and BBQ (BBQ at your request) for your use. The campsite is on a grassy surface. There are no hookups, and generators are not allowed. Firewood is available from neighbors close by. Another feature of this campsite is, LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! The site is private, you will be the only campers for the nights that you book :) We are close to everything!!! 10 minutes from WELLAND 10 minutes from PORT COLBOURNE 15 minutes from NIAGARA FALLS 20 min from the PEACE BRIDGE (International border for Canada/US) 20 minutes from CRYSTAL BEACH and RIDGEWAY 20 minutes from Sherkston Shores. 25 minutes from ST. CATHARINES. 35 minutes from NIAGARA ON THE LAKE 45 minutes from HAMILTON 1 hour and 15 min from TORONTO We are a short drive to beautiful trails, beaches, and boat docks, with lots of great restaurants, wineries, breweries and so much more to do! During your stay, we will always be available for any questions or concerns as we do live on the property. The campsite is completely private and set back away from our home. Hope to see you soon :)
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Acorn Lodge Red Oak Forest

20. Acorn Lodge Red Oak Forest

96%
(12)
58km from Hamilton · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:Nestled in a red oak forest, or expansive grass meadow, campers can pitch a tent and be off the grid to enjoy wilderness among the visiting deer, turkey and other wildlife. The campsite is located in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Nestled in a corner of the Niagara Region just beyond Niagara Falls. Picturesque Niagara-on-the-Lake epitomizes old town charm where you can explore the area's several wineries, breweries, distilleries, world-class theatre at the Shaw Festival, and important historical landmarks surrounded by stunning waterfront views.  Leave your car on-site for the duration of your stay while you rent a bicycle to tour the area, sampling all that this rural small town has to offer. Campfires are permitted, pets are welcome.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Hamilton camping guide

Where to go

Bronte Creek Provincial Park

Just a few minutes north of town, this park is bisected by the 50-metre-deep Bronte Creek Ravine. Hike along several trails, including the 1.8-kilometre Lookout Ravine Trail, which meanders along the top of the valley. Families love the animals at the Children’s Farm, as well as the Playbarn, a 150-year-old structure that’s been converted into a massive play loft for climbing and jumping.

Rock Point Provincial Park

Stretching out along the shore of Lake Erie, this park has a kilometre-long beach, lined with the remains of a 350-million-year-old coral reef. Climb up to a viewing platform to look out over the sand dunes, or fish for bass and walleye from atop a limestone outcrop. Then hike along the Woodlot Trail, two kilometres through oak savanna.

Selkirk Provincial Park

Where the wetlands of Spring Creek meet the shores of Lake Erie, you can swim at two separate beaches here (beware, the one on the lake side tends to be pebbly). Canoe down the creek, or take a little hike along the boardwalks of Wheeler’s Walk Trail, an easy 1.5 kilometres through the marsh.

Turkey Point Provincial Park

Set on the shores of Long Point Bay, this is a favourite park for families, who love wading out a long way from the two-kilometre beach on the shallow, sandy bottom. There’s also a nine-hole golf course, plus three hiking trails—Lookout Bluff offers really nice views over the water.

When to go

While somewhat moderated by the influence of Lake Ontario, which acts as a sort of inland sea, Hamilton experiences four very distinct seasons. Summer is hot and humid, with July offering the best weather and evenings cooling quickly toward the end of August. The leaves start changing in September, with the peak of fall colours—so much red and gold—usually around Thanksgiving in early-mid October. Beaches and parks are crowded in late June, July, and August, but if you come after Labour Day, you may just have the whole place to yourself.

Know before you go

  • The Queen Elizabeth Way (the QEW) is the main thoroughfare between Toronto and Niagara, and is best avoided on Fridays and Sundays in summer, when it jams up with traffic.
  • You can fly right into Hamilton—the John C. Munro International Airport connects the city with international destinations and other places across Canada.
  • The distinctive green double-decker GO Trains run from Hamilton to Toronto’s Union Station, an easy ride that sometimes skirts the lake.
  • The city is home to several outdoors stores, or you can also cross the Skyway to next-door Burlington to shop at Mountain Equipment Co-op.

Nearby attractions

For an enriching nature retreat, camping near Rockwood Conservation Area is ideal. The Rockwood camping experience combines tranquil forest trails, mesmerizing limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, promising a truly invigorating outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hamilton offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking along the Bruce Trail, biking along the lake at West Harbour, strolling the trails at Confederation Beach Park, and enjoying concerts at the grassy natural amphitheatre at Bayfront Park.

Hamilton experiences four distinct seasons, with hot and humid summers and peak fall colors usually around Thanksgiving in early-mid October. Beaches and parks are crowded in late June, July, and August, but if you come after Labour Day, you may just have the whole place to yourself.

Some recommended campgrounds near Hamilton include Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Rock Point Provincial Park, Selkirk Provincial Park, and Turkey Point Provincial Park. You can also explore different options for camping near Hamilton on Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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