The best great views campgrounds near Hamilton, Ontario

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% (577)

Top-rated campgrounds

This could be your sunrise. Wake up beside a 100 year old barn that boasts two twin tiled silos…possibly the only remaining in Ontario

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% (577)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Farm

99%

(209)

34km from Hamilton · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Brant, ON

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 as they say, the rest is future.

2. Secluded Starry Nights

96%

(135)

50km from Hamilton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Guelph, ON

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!

3. Kubasseks Water Front Retreat

99%

(493)

60km from Hamilton · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Kitchener, ON

Situated on 100 acres of mainly forest. The property gives access to trails and water. It is like going North but minutes from KW Cambridge, Woodstock, Branford, and Guelph. We are only 1 hour from major centers like Toronto, London. There are 5 sites to choose from with the sites situated on a large pond. There are Picnic tables on each site . Firewood and Fire pits Included. Complimentary Dozen Farm Fresh Eggs . Paddle Boats and Kayaks at available at No Charge ** NOTE = JUNE, JULY ,AUGUST and SEPTEMBER = 2 NIGHT MINIMUM Booking on Weekends. Catch and Release Fishing, Single Barbless Hooks Only Please. The sites are suitable for every type of camper, from tents to RVs up to 40 feet. Electric 15 amp; Water Hookups at each site included. Grocery stores are 15 minutes away for all your camping needs. Restaurants are available less than 5 minutes from the property. We look forward to hosting you!

4. Bruce Trail Bunkie

97%

(31)

44km from Hamilton · 1 site · Lodging · Limehouse, ON

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.

5. T's Pond

90%

(114)

61km from Hamilton · 2 sites · Lodging · Port Colborne, ON

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.

Stories from the community

K

KF

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Secluded Starry Nights

We had an enjoyable snowy camping with a group of 6, everything was great! Jason replied instantly and had the place fully prepared ahead of our arrival, Thank you!

During golden hour the property become extra pretty!

L

Lily

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Farm

We only had a very short stay due to a stomach bug but it was a beautiful property and Karen was a great and attentive host! We’re looking forward to coming back for a longer stay!

K

Kishon

October 2025

23 ft Class C

1 night at The Farm

Karen & John are sweethearts ! I highly recommend staying with them!

Josh

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Kubasseks Water Front Retreat

5/5 Stars. Truly remarkable David’s land was extremely peaceful and easily accessible. What stood out the most was how quiet and private it felt; you could actually relax and hear nature around you. The property was well kept, and the host was friendly and responsive. There’s plenty of open space for camping, a nice fire pit area, and great views (especially at sunset). Perfect spot if you’re looking to unplug for a bit. Not a Negative, however, this property appears to have high activity of coyotes, located approximately 50 - 100 feet away from Site 2. Coyotes are fairly timid and gutless animals but be cautious if bringing pets and or little ones, as the cries and howls can be a bit overwhelming. Coins in a can is a must-have to startle them peacefully.

Dave

October 2025

35 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Kubasseks Water Front Retreat

Beautiful location! The host is very hospitable. There is electricity and water hookups. You can bring your rv or tent! There is a little river to canoe or paddle boat on. There are trails to walk all around the property! Overall great time will be back next year for a longer visit! One note, if you're bringing an animal make sure you clean their paws lol the ground has sand mixed with grass.

Z

Zach

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kubasseks Water Front Retreat

Great site, lots of space and the property is lovely

M

Majed

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bruce Trail Bunkie

Very nice little cabin, is part of a larger property, but still plenty of privacy. Mornings are very cold around late September, recommend to bring a blanket if you’re here around this time of year. I had cell reception and was ~15 minute drive to a mall near by. The fire pit was wonderful. Would recommend.

Randy

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Kubasseks Water Front Retreat

It was a great spot , with lots of groomed well kept trails very and friendly atmospheres fire wood was provided ! And fresh eggs

F

Farzad

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to T's Pond

Perfect place and host. Very private and calming. The water was very clean and beautiful.

W

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Farm

This was my second time at The Farm and this time I brought my kids, 3 and 6 years old. They loved it. Perfect weather to have a warm campfire and lots of space to run around and observe the farm equipment. They were so enamoured with the construction vehicles, the animals and of course Karen’s warm, funny and welcoming nature. She gave us a wonderful tour of the farm and the highlight was being able to feed the Alpacas. Karen thank you for your hospitality, the firewood, the coffee and hot chocolates! You’re truly a lovely soul. Looking forward to our next stay with you!

F

Farra

October 2025

16 ft campervan

1 night at The Farm

Karen was an amazing host! She was great to talk with and learn from. She showed amazing rare and unique items they had on the farm plus the all the animals. I would recommend her farm any day and anytime of the year!

T

The

October 2025

With pets

5 nights at T's Pond

Was private and beautiful, T was a great host and we had a great time!

C

Cara

October 2025

Weekend Trip to T's Pond

Great little bunkie with the lake steps away. Cabin had everything we needed for cooking. Would definitely book again.

S

Selena

October 2025

5 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to The Farm

Karen is a perfect host. She met me when I arrived and it made for an easy set up. I was pretty tired from driving 9+ hours and was grateful I was able to settle in and have a quiet rest. Spot is great for stargazing. I liked that it was easy access to a main road and not hard on my vehicle (mine isn’t built for off road). Great tour, and super cute animals. Karen is very kind and cares about guests. Would choose to stay here again when passing through.

J

Julian

September 2025

36 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Kubasseks Water Front Retreat

Nice and quiet. Fully grassed. Sites are large and the host does a great job at keeping it clean and fire wood stocked

H

Hassan

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Kubasseks Water Front Retreat

David’s camp was amazing. I loved my experience and will definetly be coming back. He was kind and helpful. We loved chatting with him and getting g to know him and his history with the land. If you’re thinking about going camping, visit David you won’t regret it.

A

Aaron

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Farm

I really love the farm. My stay was really awesome as usual! Karen was amazing and always made sure I was taken care of and happy at her place. The sun rise and set was the most beautiful thing to look at, and all the animals in the barn have great personalities, especially the alpacas and the two big scallions!

Bill and Nancy

September 2025

35 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to The Farm

Karen took us around and showed us all of her animals. She was great, interesting, and entertaining!

E

Elizabeth

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Kubasseks Water Front Retreat

We had a great experience with our 30ft camper. Hookups were easily accessible, flat area and peaceful environment.

Phylicia

September 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Kubasseks Water Front Retreat

Great weekend stay. No complaints. We will be back again.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views camping near Hamilton 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.