The best waterside campgrounds near Peterborough, Ontario

Camping waterside in Peterborough puts you close to lakes and rivers where loons call at dusk and herons pick their way through the reeds. With over 180 waterside campsites around Peterborough, you’ll find a mix of quiet cabins and rustic spots for every style and budget—average nights run about $120, but you can snag a site for as little as $20. Reviewers love Cabin in the Woods (60 reviews), The Kountry Korner (56 reviews), and Beneath the Stars - Haliburton County Escape (56 reviews) for their easy lake access and quiet settings. Most sites let you bring pets, build a campfire, and wash off in a hot shower. Mornings mean swims, afternoons draw out the wildlife, and winters see snow sports take over the shoreline. Pack your binoculars: otters, deer, and the odd beaver show up if you’re patient. If you’re after water and a break from city noise, Peterborough’s lakesides deliver.

97% (883)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping waterside in Peterborough puts you close to lakes and rivers where loons call at dusk and herons pick their way through the reeds. With over 180 waterside campsites around Peterborough, you’ll find a mix of quiet cabins and rustic spots for every style and budget—average nights run about $120, but you can snag a site for as little as $20. Reviewers love Cabin in the Woods (60 reviews), The Kountry Korner (56 reviews), and Beneath the Stars - Haliburton County Escape (56 reviews) for their easy lake access and quiet settings. Most sites let you bring pets, build a campfire, and wash off in a hot shower. Mornings mean swims, afternoons draw out the wildlife, and winters see snow sports take over the shoreline. Pack your binoculars: otters, deer, and the odd beaver show up if you’re patient. If you’re after water and a break from city noise, Peterborough’s lakesides deliver.

97% (883)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Uxbridge Igloo

89%

(28)

75km from Peterborough · 1 site · Lodging · Mount Albert, ON

Your own private getaway with a private lake, sauna, forest, trails, wildlife and plenty of places to explore. When hungry, take in the local eateries, wineries, cideries and the trail capital of canada for mountain biking, hiking or walking. In the winter, skate on our private lake or hit the slopes at lake ridge ski or dagmar.

2. Wildwood Cottages

100%

(11)

16km from Peterborough · 2 sites · Lodging · Peterborough, ON

Wildwood Cottage sits on 6.5 acres overlooking Otonabee River. In the spring summer and fall we have 6 cottages and 2 bunkies. November to April we keep 3 cottages open with hot tubs and wood burning fireplaces. You can watch the birds off your porch, go for a swim at the beach, use a complementary canoe or even rent a boat or seadoo to explore farther! In the summer months we offer a swimming area equipped with kayaks and water inflatables. In the winter, there is a skating rink when the weather permits! Generally Jan & Feb. Dec and Mar the weather sometimes is not cold enough. One of the best things to do any season - sit at your own fire pit and enjoy the clear sky full of stars while listening to the sounds of natures. We are also pet friendly!

3. Beneath the Stars - Haliburton County Escape

94%

(79)

80km from Peterborough · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Minden, ON

We have a beautiful, densely treed, and well-groomed 1-acre piece of property in desirable cottage country that's craving your company! The mature trees, corner lot and private road offer seclusion, tranquility and peaceful atmosphere. The terrain is steep and hilly; however there are flatter areas to pitch a tent or level a trailer. The site boasts serenity as it remains untouched to significant changes to honor its original beauty and encourage its sustainability. It is within walking distance to the world-famous, Panam Summer Games host " The Minden White Water Preserve/Rapids", which is used for kayaking and hiking. Walking distance to a public beach on the desirable Horseshoe Lake, part of a 3 chain lake, where you can fish, swim and relax in clean, sparkling waters. Our oasis welcomes you! Choose from two options. Beneath The Stars Tenting Escape - tent or RV(up to 25 feet) site with an outhouse Rustic Cozy Cabin - ideal for a family or group. Currently can sleep 5 adults comfortably, or 6 with small children. We are in a very desirable location; only 10 minute drive to the village of Minden, and surrounded by natural beauty and activities for nature lovers!

4. Vintage Trailer Retreat

75km from Peterborough · 1 site · RV · Tory Hill, ON

Located in ghost town Tory Hill beside the Old United church and Glassblowing studio. Enjoy walks in the woods, paddling in the lakes or take a glassblowing class! Breakfast is available for a fee. Located 2.5hrs north of Toronto/3 hrs west of Ottawa. We are close to lots of unique amenities. Vegan bakery, antique stores, bike trails, wolf centre, craft breweries and lots more!

5. Tryfan Forest

94%

(199)

65km from Peterborough · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Haliburton, ON

Tryfan Forest is an 800 acre privately owned managed forest and wilderness reserve. It borders thousands of acres of crown land wilderness. This is truly a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience. The property gives access to the lake as well as Tryfan Forest's many trails, and diverse landscape. Tryfan Forest provides something for all outdoor enthusiasts no matter what your experience level is! Choose from five different options including: Ravens Point Camping - 3 different lakeside sites accessible by 1.5-2km hike or by canoe. All three Raven's Point campsites have their own thunderbox toilet as well as picnic tables and private docks on the lake. Sand Flats - This campsite is ideally suited for large groups and for winter camping. It features a sheltered, private, flat area for tents, and a central picnic table. This site is located deep in a remote wilderness setting.

6. Robyn's Nest

100%

(43)

79km from Peterborough · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Minden, ON

Learn more about this land: Welcome to the Robyn's Nest : Where Memories are Made and Worries are Few We are located next to the world-class Minden Wild Water Reserve for Kayaking that hosted the Pan-Am games. Hiking, biking, exploring caves, swimming, fishing, Kayaking and boating are some of the activities within walking distance of the Robyn's Nest Blairhampton Golf Club and Gull River Golf Club are just minutes away Local restaurants include Millpond (Carnarvon) , Suwan's Thai Cuisine, Mark's Chinese, Godfather's Pizza, Subway, Boshkung Brewery and Dominion Hotel Pub are located in nearby Minden A Farmer/Crafters market is in town every Saturday. Renowned Kawartha Dairy is close by, with a lot of great activities for all.

7. Off the Grid Camp - Oasis Cabin

100%

(13)

64km from Peterborough · 1 site · Lodging · Bancroft, ON

Off the Grid Camp/Cabin/Cottage for Rent Escape the ordinary and reconnect with nature at our cozy, off-the-grid retreat, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking peace, adventure, and privacy. Located on a quiet logging road with no neighbors in sight, this rustic camp offers direct access to scenic 4-wheeler trails and is just minutes from some of the area’s best fishing spots. Whether you’re casting a line, exploring the wilderness, or just unwinding under the stars, this is your getaway waiting to happen. Fully private, unplugged, and unforgettable. R eserve your escape today! Apsleycreeksideoasis@gmail.com Eelsoasisandadventure.com 705/656/9555

8. Waterfront Beach Site Port Granby

100%

(2)

45km from Peterborough · 1 site · Tent · Newcastle, ON

Beautiful Rocky Beach on the shore of Lake Ontario. Southern Exposure. Soft patch of grass for you to pitch your tent. Gradual shallow water to put your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard in. As long as there are no fire bans, you can have a great bonfire right on the beach! Beautiful driftwood logs to sit on, water to swim in, and southern exposure sky to gaze at! Parking available. On the Lakeshore; a fantastic spot for cycling. We live on the property 1 acre away. We have 2 friendly dogs! Guests must love dogs; they will make friends with you :)

Camper favorites near Peterborough

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Vintage Trailer Retreat

75km from Peterborough · 1 site · RV · Tory Hill, ON

Located in ghost town Tory Hill beside the Old United church and Glassblowing studio. Enjoy walks in the woods, paddling in the lakes or take a glassblowing class! Breakfast is available for a fee. Located 2.5hrs north of Toronto/3 hrs west of Ottawa. We are close to lots of unique amenities. Vegan bakery, antique stores, bike trails, wolf centre, craft breweries and lots more!

Tryfan Forest

94%

(199)

65km from Peterborough · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Haliburton, ON

Tryfan Forest is an 800 acre privately owned managed forest and wilderness reserve. It borders thousands of acres of crown land wilderness. This is truly a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience. The property gives access to the lake as well as Tryfan Forest's many trails, and diverse landscape. Tryfan Forest provides something for all outdoor enthusiasts no matter what your experience level is! Choose from five different options including: Ravens Point Camping - 3 different lakeside sites accessible by 1.5-2km hike or by canoe. All three Raven's Point campsites have their own thunderbox toilet as well as picnic tables and private docks on the lake. Sand Flats - This campsite is ideally suited for large groups and for winter camping. It features a sheltered, private, flat area for tents, and a central picnic table. This site is located deep in a remote wilderness setting.

Robyn's Nest

100%

(43)

79km from Peterborough · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Minden, ON

Learn more about this land: Welcome to the Robyn's Nest : Where Memories are Made and Worries are Few We are located next to the world-class Minden Wild Water Reserve for Kayaking that hosted the Pan-Am games. Hiking, biking, exploring caves, swimming, fishing, Kayaking and boating are some of the activities within walking distance of the Robyn's Nest Blairhampton Golf Club and Gull River Golf Club are just minutes away Local restaurants include Millpond (Carnarvon) , Suwan's Thai Cuisine, Mark's Chinese, Godfather's Pizza, Subway, Boshkung Brewery and Dominion Hotel Pub are located in nearby Minden A Farmer/Crafters market is in town every Saturday. Renowned Kawartha Dairy is close by, with a lot of great activities for all.

Off the Grid Camp - Oasis Cabin

100%

(13)

64km from Peterborough · 1 site · Lodging · Bancroft, ON

Off the Grid Camp/Cabin/Cottage for Rent Escape the ordinary and reconnect with nature at our cozy, off-the-grid retreat, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking peace, adventure, and privacy. Located on a quiet logging road with no neighbors in sight, this rustic camp offers direct access to scenic 4-wheeler trails and is just minutes from some of the area’s best fishing spots. Whether you’re casting a line, exploring the wilderness, or just unwinding under the stars, this is your getaway waiting to happen. Fully private, unplugged, and unforgettable. R eserve your escape today! Apsleycreeksideoasis@gmail.com Eelsoasisandadventure.com 705/656/9555

Waterfront Beach Site Port Granby

100%

(2)

45km from Peterborough · 1 site · Tent · Newcastle, ON

Beautiful Rocky Beach on the shore of Lake Ontario. Southern Exposure. Soft patch of grass for you to pitch your tent. Gradual shallow water to put your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard in. As long as there are no fire bans, you can have a great bonfire right on the beach! Beautiful driftwood logs to sit on, water to swim in, and southern exposure sky to gaze at! Parking available. On the Lakeshore; a fantastic spot for cycling. We live on the property 1 acre away. We have 2 friendly dogs! Guests must love dogs; they will make friends with you :)

Stories from the community

View towards the lake. Enjoy beautiful sunsets at this west facing site.

C

Caleb

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tryfan Forest

We stayed at the Hemlock Grove site with 7 people, 3 cars and had plenty of room! We had 2 hammocks and 3 tents, this site is great for hammocking. Brent was very accommodating and provided all the information we needed. Unfortunately we got hit with some bad weather, but I would recommend Tryfan Forest to anyone looking to enjoy a quiet weekend on a beautiful piece of land.

D

Danylo

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tryfan Forest

We had an amazing experience.The place was clean and beautiful. The host was very welcoming and a really nice man. I’ll definitely come back there next year.

C

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Tryfan Forest

First time here and the host was very welcoming. We picked a spot close to the water but there was no car access to the site so we had to change it at the last minute. The host was very accommodating and made the changes without any issue. We like the site we chose and would come back again.

R

Reactive

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tryfan Forest

Bret was a fantastic host! Very easy to communicate with and flexible. The campsite is perfect if you’re looking to spend quality time immersed in nature, away from crowds. Thank you for the complimentary canoes, kayaks, and lake access. I wish we had caught more fish, but overall it was an amazing experience!

S

Sienna

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Robyn's Nest

It was such a wonderful experience camping at Robyns nest. The bathrooms were clean, campsite was big and the outdoor games were fun! Cant wait to come back!

T

Tim

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Robyn's Nest

Our stay at the Robyn's nest was very enjoyable! Ronald and Robyn are great, friendly hosts that have maintained a beautiful property. Not only have they provided a fully functional washroom on site, but they take the time to clean it regularly. There are also many things to do nearby. We will definitely be back to spend more time here!

P

Patrick

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Robyn's Nest

Great spot to camp. Great hosts ! Easy directions. Flat site to camp on after a short steep hill access. Deer, wild turkeys, loon & more Right across the road from a beach where you can swim and a white water racecourse where you can watch people playing, and or racing in the rapids. A clean washroom as well. I short drive in to town makes it one of the best places I’ve camped. Thank you, Robyn & Ronald !

A

Annique

August 2025

With pets

5 nights at Off the Grid Camp - Oasis Cabin

Had a great time at the cabin. Everything was super nice and clean. The lake is beautiful Kriss was very responsive. Nothing but good things to say! Annique

N

Nick

August 2025

1 night at Uxbridge Igloo

Beautiful structure near the creek. Big ol raft in the water with a ZIIIIPPLLLLIIIINNNEE that was much enjoyed Twinkly lights on trail leading to the igloo No wood provided, dishes were dirty from previous folks, BBQ didn’t work Beautiful pond!

S

Sammy

August 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Robyn's Nest

Ronald and robyn were very kind and helpful. They have a beautiful property and lots of outdoor games for everyone to enjoy! The beach is a cross from their property which is perfect!

Katie

August 2025

10 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Robyn's Nest

What a treasure! From such a warm welcome by Ronald and his wife, the beauty of the land that we camped on and the raved about bathrooms (yes they are soo clean!) Hubby and I wanted to stay longer as this HipCamp is nested between Horseshoe Lake and Minden's Wild Water Preserve- literally at the end of the driveway! Lots of activities /games available on property for you to use at your leisure. The ambiance from the rapids was dreamy We will be making another visit soon!

N

Noah

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Robyn's Nest

This was our second time at Ronald and Robyn’s campsite and it was another amazing experience. They go above and beyond to ensure we are happy. Quiet, lots of space, fun games to play, and clean bathroom. Thank you!

R

Rosie

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Waterfront Beach Site Port Granby

My boyfriend and I camped here and we had an amazing time! The waters were so clear, nice spot to put up our tent and the views were gorgeous. We travelled a lot to port hope while we stayed here too and that was rlly fun. Jamie was wonderful and so were her dogs!! 10/10

H

Hazel

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Robyn's Nest

we loved tent camping at robyn’s nest, great campsite and slim shady is highly recommended (and not just because of the name). bathrooms were clean and the lake was just a stones throw away from the site, with a easy access boat launch. 10/10 would book again!

m

matthew

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Robyn's Nest

My family and I loved our little getaway at Ronald's. If you're looking for a nice quiet spot with lots to do within a couple minutes walk or drive look no further.

N

Natasha

August 2025

With pets

1 night at Uxbridge Igloo

We had a lovely time in the Igloo. The location is beautiful and the water was clean and swimmable. The zip line and the slide were pretty fun too. We oiled have loved if the toilet was not beside the bed, it doesn’t smell lovely while in bed. Nonetheless we had a lovely time. Cleaning guy crept up on us before 11 am check out and scared the bejesus out of us. Maybe coming after 11 am would be a nice touch. The sound of the river while sleeping was a plus ! Bring a fan if you are visiting in the summer it is hot. The sauna is lovely and close to the water so you can plunge when it’s hot;)

E

Emily

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Waterfront Beach Site Port Granby

This was my first Hipcamping experience and it is going to be hard to beat! Jamie provided very clear directions and helpful tips on how to access the land. As I pulled in the drive and headed toward the lake, I knew this would be a place I would forever carry in my memories. My two sons and I camped RIGHT on the lip of Lake Ontario on a large and quiet site complete with a clean portable potty and a massive pavilion with ample seating if you need to get out of the weather. After a morning swim in the crystal clear lake waters, we packed up with our only regret being just having one night there. I would LOVE to return to this spot. Thank you for the great memories, Jamie!

N

Norlyn

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Robyn's Nest

It was an amazing getaway weekend!!! Ronald and wife are very accommodating and friendly, they don’t mind spending time just to check if guest are all good and having fun! Very clean, quiet, and washroom is well maintained, Area is just a walking distance from lake and river. You’ll never get board in the camp site, they set up plenty of activity that all ages can play with, mini park for kids as well, Highly recommended and planning to be back soon!!!

R

Rahim

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Robyn's Nest

Robyn’s nest is one of the best camping sites so far. Both couple are very accommodating, kind and they’re always making sure we’re doing well in our site. The washroom is well maintained, clean and smells good. So many fun activities/games they prepared to make your day fun and enjoyable experience. The site are just a few minutes walk down the beautiful, calm Lake and Stunning Running water River that you surely gonna enjoy the cool water from the river. I definitely recommend the Robyn’s nest to my friends to come and visit the site.

Brittney

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Robyn's Nest

We went camping for the weekend at Robyn’s Nest with our dog and it exceeded our expectations. It is a great location, with the water just across the road as well as the rapids. You are still minutes to the town as well for any last minute items you may need. Robyn and Ron were so kind, coming around each morning and evening to ensure everyone had everything they needed and check in on how everyone’s stay was going. There was plenty of lawn games, privacy between all the sites and the bugs were not bad at all! The bathrooms were a great addition as well, very clean and well maintained. We would definitely come back to Robyn’s nest! Thanks again Robyn and Ron for your hospitality - you guys are great! ☺️