The best lakeside camping near Southampton

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A quaint community set on the shores of Lake Huron in Bruce County, Southampton has a picturesque town center, a long sandy beach, and plenty of nearby parks. Set up camp near Fathom Five National Park, Bruce Peninsula National Park, or the Inglis Conservation Area to access scuba diving, hiking, and cascading waterfalls. Or, hitch the boat to the RV and stop at a full-service campsite near a lake or pond in July to check out the epic fireworks display on Canada Day (July 1) and the Chantry Chinook Salmon Derby held every summer.

98% (234)

Top-rated campgrounds

The house and view of upstairs Elvish Suite porch; house decorated for the winter season

2. Tolkien Fantasy At Grey Havens

97%
(35)
52km from Southampton · 7 sites · Lodging · Markdale, ON
Tolkien readers know that Grey Havens is actually the last chapter of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy. We embrace Tolkien's imagination. Readers and writers especially like our lakefront property. We especially encourage writers and readers looking for retreat. We facilitate relaxation and inspiration. Starting with our Little Free Library, each accommodation has a unique small Library inside . We have quiet, segregated spaces inside or outside for writing or reading. You can even purchase works by the host/author onsite. But we are not just about books. We also encourage water recreation activities: swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing. We have a free boat launch for your watercraft. We are on a small biologically special kettle lake, the source of the Styx River. Our lake water is flushed with cool underground water. For a description of the geology and biology of lake, consider the "Townsend Lake Cruise" on our unique eVessel, Swizzle Styx (book in the "Extras"). There is plenty of County Forest and Bruce Trailhead hiking opportunities also nearby. On our property are the following amenities: +Car parking (1/site; free) +Motorcycle friendly parking pads for touring riders (Free) +Wireless access (Free) +Spacious outdoor Privy used by all on site campers (All Free) +Dock and canoe/kayak launch (bring your own canoes/kayaks) +Patio/deck (20'x25') with fire circle, chairs and tables (burn only locally sourced wood by booking a "Firewood Bundle" OR a "Butane Cook Stove" in the "Extras") +A "Gear Wagon" (book in the "Extras") to transport your luggage, tents, gear and/or coolers from the car to the site you have booked. (And again on your way out also). Hip Campers have often asked for fire starting help. We recommend First Time/Novice Hip Campers consider the "Fire Workshop" extra. You get a "Firewood Bundle" a kit of firestarters and patient instruction on starting your first campfire. Grey Havens is waste wise: remove your garbage and cleanup your site to get up to $10 cleaning fee returned. Grey Havens was the final chapter in Tolkien's trilogy. We continue creating a paradise here. Hip Campers may wonder about the whale bench seen in many of our photographs. Ask your host about the story of our Whale Bench.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$100
 / night
Willow Pond Haven

3. Willow Pond Haven

100%
(10)
54km from Southampton · 1 site · Lodging · Hanover, ON
Looking to Disconnect and truly escape? Look no further , Willow Pond Haven is the perfect spot to unwind . We are situated 2 hours from Toronto. Nestled among tall pines trees on a quiet property just minutes from Allen Park, where you can enjoy hiking trails , fishing at the trout pond there. Our cozy bunkie offers a charming retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Perfect for weekdays and weekends getaway’s. Enjoy the calm , quaint and beautiful views of the serene pond and stunning sunrises and sunsets while sitting outside having coffee on your deck. Our cozy bunkie offers 1 Queen size bed, 1 twin size bunkie . (Can sleep up to 4 comfortably) table and 2 chairs, bench, a deck, BBQ, picnic table, fire pit. Swimming in our 1 acre pond, kayaking, or canoeing. Outhouse on site with handwashing station. Note swim and kayak /canoe at only risk Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee under the trees or unwinding by the fire this hidden gem is the perfect spot to relax and recharge. Tent sites available for larger groups with bunkie rental. Wood for camp fires is available at a reasonable price.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$90
 / night
R&R Back Road Country Retreat

6. R&R Back Road Country Retreat

100%
(26)
43km from Southampton · 4 sites · Lodging · Elmwood, ON
A river runs through this 120 acre wooded property with abundant wildlife featuring two very large spring fed ponds. Plenty of fishing, swimming, hiking and biking trails. Amazing property to get away from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Awesome sunrises and sunsets. Listen to the frogs and the crickets while watching the fireflies dance around. We provide bedding, towels, soap, shampoo, pots, pans, kettle, cutlery, tabletop barbecue, a cooking grill, utensils, mugs, cups, drinking water and more. There is an outdoor shower available at each site. We provide enough wood for the first campfire. After that, it's $7 a bundle. All you need to bring is your food, drinks, cooler and maybe a flashlight. The camp fire will be ready and waiting for you to enjoy under a sky full of stars. Included in your stay is access to the barn games room which features air hockey, darts, music and more. There is a horse shoe pit set up just outside the barn. Our property is conveniently located to easily access all the amazing activities and sights this area has to offer. Allan Park Conservation Area, Hanover Drive-in, MacLean's Ales Brewery, OLG Slots and Hanover Raceway, Inglis Falls and Walters Falls just to mention a few.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$153
 / night
Looking down the hill towards the lake from the Hosts House
Campers can use the hillside to star gaze Bring a blanket and your star gazing gear & be amazed ⭐️

7. Olde Eden on Mountain Lake

99%
(112)
34km from Southampton · 8 sites · Tents · Wiarton, ON
Peaceful tent camping with access to Mountain Lake. Perfect for nature lovers, quiet, experienced self-sufficient campers. Check in after 2 pm till before dark. Check out is Noon. Pack it in pack it out policy. The campsites are located down a hill and are close to the lake. Each site has a fire pit, picnic table and ample room for tents and parking for one vehicle. There is one outhouse on the property near the lake access that is to be shared with all campers. There are walking trails to respectfully explore and enjoy local flora and fauna. On clear nights the starry vistas will unfold in the Dark Sky Preserve here on the Bruce Peninsula. The lakefront has a picnic table to enjoy a meal at (no fire pit). You can push off from the shoreline with your kayaks or canoes (bring your own) to explore “The Fens” of Mountain Lake. The lake is NOT suitable for swimming, it has a marl bottom that you will sink into. There is no potable water, please bring your own for drinking and cooking. There are some nice beaches suitable for swimming within a 15-20 minute drive. Sauble Beach is best for a swim and to watch the sunset from. We are located 10 minutes from Wiarton, 20 minutes from Sauble Beach and 1 hour from Tobermory. Enjoy all the Bruce Peninsula has to offer from this convenient base. 2SLGBTQIA supporter 🌈 Please Note: Quiet hours are from 11 p.m. - 6 a.m. Check in after 2pm Must arrive before dark. No late night check ins. Check out time is NOON, unless otherwise pre-arranged with the host. Small group camping only (4 person max per site). No parties. No late arrivals. No ATVs. Any children must be supervised by an adult at all times. The farm animals and livestock are not part of this Hipcamp experience. Please refrain from visiting the host’s farm and house. No pets, as we have farm dogs and livestock. Our dogs are friendly and may wander down to say hello. Our dogs are working dogs and protect our livestock from the coyotes, foxes, raccoons etc … it is wild here. All flammable materials, including cigarettes, are to be extinguished and ‘packed out’. There is No garbage disposal, please take away the garbage you create. Pack it in and take it out
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$80
 / night
Saugeen Shores Nature Retreat

8. Saugeen Shores Nature Retreat

100%
(14)
15km from Southampton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Dobbinton, ON
Once upon a time this property consisted of an 18 acre apple orchard and a 10 acre Maple Sugar bush with evidence of it scattered about the property.  I have owned the property for over 16 years now, and moved here from Toronto about 4 years ago, living in nature has become my life.  The property is full of Wild life and history.  The 18 acre orchard was turned into a white pine forest about 40 years ago and has recently been thinned out to promote healthy growth.  Bee hives have recently become part of the life that exists here.  The area is surrounded by a Mennonite community and the Amish are also within a 15 minute drive from here.  On the map you will see that this property is a part of the original Queen's bush.  The highest point in the township with amazing views all around.  Here to enjoy and experience for all.Learn more about this land:64 acres of forests, a pond and an open field filled with wildflowers, butterflies and a vast variety of Birds. This place has 6 distinct forests to explore and forage. The campsite consists of an acre of groomed grass snuggled up against a vast forest and a frog pond with lots of activities to enjoy.The campsite is only 15 minutes from Port Elgin and Southampton. Beautiful sunsets from our open Meadow by a spring-fed pond. Lots of wildlife, butterflies and wildflowers!We have one site available for tent and RV campers. We provide a toilet, potable water and a picnic table. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban, pets are welcome.The forests are full of foraging options that might be of interest to some campers. Very close to rivers for those who love canoeing. 15 minutes from amazing beaches on Lake Huron in both Port Elgin and Southampton. Sauble Beach is less than 30 minutes away. Come enjoy this amazing part of Southern Ontario.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$52
 / night

A quaint community set on the shores of Lake Huron in Bruce County, Southampton has a picturesque town center, a long sandy beach, and plenty of nearby parks. Set up camp near Fathom Five National Park, Bruce Peninsula National Park, or the Inglis Conservation Area to access scuba diving, hiking, and cascading waterfalls. Or, hitch the boat to the RV and stop at a full-service campsite near a lake or pond in July to check out the epic fireworks display on Canada Day (July 1) and the Chantry Chinook Salmon Derby held every summer.

98% (234)

Top-rated campgrounds

The house and view of upstairs Elvish Suite porch; house decorated for the winter season

2. Tolkien Fantasy At Grey Havens

97%
(35)
52km from Southampton · 7 sites · Lodging · Markdale, ON
Tolkien readers know that Grey Havens is actually the last chapter of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy. We embrace Tolkien's imagination. Readers and writers especially like our lakefront property. We especially encourage writers and readers looking for retreat. We facilitate relaxation and inspiration. Starting with our Little Free Library, each accommodation has a unique small Library inside . We have quiet, segregated spaces inside or outside for writing or reading. You can even purchase works by the host/author onsite. But we are not just about books. We also encourage water recreation activities: swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing. We have a free boat launch for your watercraft. We are on a small biologically special kettle lake, the source of the Styx River. Our lake water is flushed with cool underground water. For a description of the geology and biology of lake, consider the "Townsend Lake Cruise" on our unique eVessel, Swizzle Styx (book in the "Extras"). There is plenty of County Forest and Bruce Trailhead hiking opportunities also nearby. On our property are the following amenities: +Car parking (1/site; free) +Motorcycle friendly parking pads for touring riders (Free) +Wireless access (Free) +Spacious outdoor Privy used by all on site campers (All Free) +Dock and canoe/kayak launch (bring your own canoes/kayaks) +Patio/deck (20'x25') with fire circle, chairs and tables (burn only locally sourced wood by booking a "Firewood Bundle" OR a "Butane Cook Stove" in the "Extras") +A "Gear Wagon" (book in the "Extras") to transport your luggage, tents, gear and/or coolers from the car to the site you have booked. (And again on your way out also). Hip Campers have often asked for fire starting help. We recommend First Time/Novice Hip Campers consider the "Fire Workshop" extra. You get a "Firewood Bundle" a kit of firestarters and patient instruction on starting your first campfire. Grey Havens is waste wise: remove your garbage and cleanup your site to get up to $10 cleaning fee returned. Grey Havens was the final chapter in Tolkien's trilogy. We continue creating a paradise here. Hip Campers may wonder about the whale bench seen in many of our photographs. Ask your host about the story of our Whale Bench.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$100
 / night
Willow Pond Haven

3. Willow Pond Haven

100%
(10)
54km from Southampton · 1 site · Lodging · Hanover, ON
Looking to Disconnect and truly escape? Look no further , Willow Pond Haven is the perfect spot to unwind . We are situated 2 hours from Toronto. Nestled among tall pines trees on a quiet property just minutes from Allen Park, where you can enjoy hiking trails , fishing at the trout pond there. Our cozy bunkie offers a charming retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Perfect for weekdays and weekends getaway’s. Enjoy the calm , quaint and beautiful views of the serene pond and stunning sunrises and sunsets while sitting outside having coffee on your deck. Our cozy bunkie offers 1 Queen size bed, 1 twin size bunkie . (Can sleep up to 4 comfortably) table and 2 chairs, bench, a deck, BBQ, picnic table, fire pit. Swimming in our 1 acre pond, kayaking, or canoeing. Outhouse on site with handwashing station. Note swim and kayak /canoe at only risk Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee under the trees or unwinding by the fire this hidden gem is the perfect spot to relax and recharge. Tent sites available for larger groups with bunkie rental. Wood for camp fires is available at a reasonable price.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$90
 / night
R&R Back Road Country Retreat

6. R&R Back Road Country Retreat

100%
(26)
43km from Southampton · 4 sites · Lodging · Elmwood, ON
A river runs through this 120 acre wooded property with abundant wildlife featuring two very large spring fed ponds. Plenty of fishing, swimming, hiking and biking trails. Amazing property to get away from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Awesome sunrises and sunsets. Listen to the frogs and the crickets while watching the fireflies dance around. We provide bedding, towels, soap, shampoo, pots, pans, kettle, cutlery, tabletop barbecue, a cooking grill, utensils, mugs, cups, drinking water and more. There is an outdoor shower available at each site. We provide enough wood for the first campfire. After that, it's $7 a bundle. All you need to bring is your food, drinks, cooler and maybe a flashlight. The camp fire will be ready and waiting for you to enjoy under a sky full of stars. Included in your stay is access to the barn games room which features air hockey, darts, music and more. There is a horse shoe pit set up just outside the barn. Our property is conveniently located to easily access all the amazing activities and sights this area has to offer. Allan Park Conservation Area, Hanover Drive-in, MacLean's Ales Brewery, OLG Slots and Hanover Raceway, Inglis Falls and Walters Falls just to mention a few.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$153
 / night
Looking down the hill towards the lake from the Hosts House
Campers can use the hillside to star gaze Bring a blanket and your star gazing gear & be amazed ⭐️

7. Olde Eden on Mountain Lake

99%
(112)
34km from Southampton · 8 sites · Tents · Wiarton, ON
Peaceful tent camping with access to Mountain Lake. Perfect for nature lovers, quiet, experienced self-sufficient campers. Check in after 2 pm till before dark. Check out is Noon. Pack it in pack it out policy. The campsites are located down a hill and are close to the lake. Each site has a fire pit, picnic table and ample room for tents and parking for one vehicle. There is one outhouse on the property near the lake access that is to be shared with all campers. There are walking trails to respectfully explore and enjoy local flora and fauna. On clear nights the starry vistas will unfold in the Dark Sky Preserve here on the Bruce Peninsula. The lakefront has a picnic table to enjoy a meal at (no fire pit). You can push off from the shoreline with your kayaks or canoes (bring your own) to explore “The Fens” of Mountain Lake. The lake is NOT suitable for swimming, it has a marl bottom that you will sink into. There is no potable water, please bring your own for drinking and cooking. There are some nice beaches suitable for swimming within a 15-20 minute drive. Sauble Beach is best for a swim and to watch the sunset from. We are located 10 minutes from Wiarton, 20 minutes from Sauble Beach and 1 hour from Tobermory. Enjoy all the Bruce Peninsula has to offer from this convenient base. 2SLGBTQIA supporter 🌈 Please Note: Quiet hours are from 11 p.m. - 6 a.m. Check in after 2pm Must arrive before dark. No late night check ins. Check out time is NOON, unless otherwise pre-arranged with the host. Small group camping only (4 person max per site). No parties. No late arrivals. No ATVs. Any children must be supervised by an adult at all times. The farm animals and livestock are not part of this Hipcamp experience. Please refrain from visiting the host’s farm and house. No pets, as we have farm dogs and livestock. Our dogs are friendly and may wander down to say hello. Our dogs are working dogs and protect our livestock from the coyotes, foxes, raccoons etc … it is wild here. All flammable materials, including cigarettes, are to be extinguished and ‘packed out’. There is No garbage disposal, please take away the garbage you create. Pack it in and take it out
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$80
 / night
Saugeen Shores Nature Retreat

8. Saugeen Shores Nature Retreat

100%
(14)
15km from Southampton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Dobbinton, ON
Once upon a time this property consisted of an 18 acre apple orchard and a 10 acre Maple Sugar bush with evidence of it scattered about the property.  I have owned the property for over 16 years now, and moved here from Toronto about 4 years ago, living in nature has become my life.  The property is full of Wild life and history.  The 18 acre orchard was turned into a white pine forest about 40 years ago and has recently been thinned out to promote healthy growth.  Bee hives have recently become part of the life that exists here.  The area is surrounded by a Mennonite community and the Amish are also within a 15 minute drive from here.  On the map you will see that this property is a part of the original Queen's bush.  The highest point in the township with amazing views all around.  Here to enjoy and experience for all.Learn more about this land:64 acres of forests, a pond and an open field filled with wildflowers, butterflies and a vast variety of Birds. This place has 6 distinct forests to explore and forage. The campsite consists of an acre of groomed grass snuggled up against a vast forest and a frog pond with lots of activities to enjoy.The campsite is only 15 minutes from Port Elgin and Southampton. Beautiful sunsets from our open Meadow by a spring-fed pond. Lots of wildlife, butterflies and wildflowers!We have one site available for tent and RV campers. We provide a toilet, potable water and a picnic table. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban, pets are welcome.The forests are full of foraging options that might be of interest to some campers. Very close to rivers for those who love canoeing. 15 minutes from amazing beaches on Lake Huron in both Port Elgin and Southampton. Sauble Beach is less than 30 minutes away. Come enjoy this amazing part of Southern Ontario.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$52
 / night

Camper favorites near Southampton

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Stories from the community

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

The best lakeside camping near Southampton guide

Where to go

Fathom Five National Marine Park

Situated beside the town of Tobermory, Fathom Five National Marine Park is a one-hour and 18-minute drive from Southampton, making it an easy day trip. The park has wheelchair-accessible areas, allows dogs, and offers easy walking trails for kids. Book a scuba diving tour to see 22 historic shipwrecks dotted across the lake bottom, or hop in a kayak and paddle to Flowerpot Island’s natural rock pillars carved by waves over thousands of years. Tent camping is available for easy access to marine life and aquatic activities.

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Bruce Peninsula National Park is just over an hour away and highlights 154 square kilometres of natural lakeside beauty. Park at the Halfway Log Dump Lot (making reservations is a good idea since there aren’t any other lots) and hike the 4.4-km section of the Bruce Trail called The Grotto Hike to a natural limestone sea cave well-known for swimming, cliff jumping, and craggy terrain. There are plenty of tent and backcountry campsites as well as some glamping campgrounds with yurts featuring wood-burning fireplaces and bathroom facilities.

Inglis Falls Conservation Area

Close to Owen Sound and just over a 30-minute drive from Southampton, Inglis Falls Conservation Area features 200 hectares of forested grounds with 7.42 kilometres of trails. Inglis Falls—an 18-meter-high waterfall—is one of the main draws. Visit in winter to view the awe-inspiring array of icicles, get a workout on snowshoe and cross-country trails, and cozy up at a tent campsite with a firepit or a cabin with a wood-burning stove to dry off snow-soaked clothing. RV campgrounds with full-service amenities like dump stations, water hookups, and wifi access are also available.

When to go

June, July, and August are universally-loved for Southampton visits when the weather is warm with very little rain. Expect bigger crowds in summer, so traveling in May or September when the weather’s still pleasant and the tourist attractions are less busy offers a quieter experience. Freezing temperatures and snow start in December and last until February—prime conditions for cross-country skiing and photographing frozen waterfalls.