Lake camping in the United States

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Camping by a lake in the United States gives you options—over 202,000, to be specific. You’ll find sites with toilets, showers, and plenty that welcome pets. The average night runs about $50, but you can snag a spot for as little as $5 if you’re quick. Top picks like Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp (2805 reviews), Finnon Lake Recreation Area (1225 reviews), and 5D RANCH (1190 reviews) get consistent praise for their access and setting. Expect swimming, horseback riding, and hiking to fill your days. Some lakes are tucked against canyon walls, others sprawl beside pine forests, and a few back right up to fishing docks. If you want to wake up to water views and easy access to trails, you’ll find your spot here.

95% (141.4K) • 213,118 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in United States

Starlight Hills

1. Starlight Hills

98%
(1781)
Bostic, NC · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our Spa and Geodesic Dome Planetarium is now available for booking! Our Pond is now OPEN! We are a constantly evolving location, Our goal is to provide a genuine secluded camping experience immersed in nature in a mountainous forest with privacy and well spaced out secluded camp sites. We also have minimal light pollution, so our skies are beautiful for viewing the stars. We offer trails through natural wooded habitat with hidden gems of nature. Wildlife viewing throughout. There are feed locations to increase viewing opportunities. A creek on the property is lovely for walking. Centered between Charlotte and Asheville we are within your reach! We offer primitive tent camping, Glamping Tents a tiny cabin and Geodesic Dome. Lodging locations have a private Mountain View, fire pit area, Queen bed, Night Stand (built in phone charger), Desk area, interior and exterior lighting, heater and fan (powered by solar system). As a part of Starlight Hills Campground you have access to filtered drinking water, common overlook (w/ BBQ pits & picnic tables), trails, bathroom and showers. Welcome to bring all your furry family members ❤️. Please Note: Don’t forget to add on your Hipcamp Weather insurance! As we know, mother nature can always be troublesome. We do not honor weather cancellations, please make sure to purchase insurance through Hipcamp if it is a concern. 3 day cancellation window prior to trip. 2 Wheel Dr. vehicles can access all of our sites. Gravel/ Dirt road up hill.
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5D RANCH

2. 5D RANCH

99%
(1891)
Navasota, TX · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to 5D Ranch in Navasota, TX! We're located 60 miles north of Houston and just 2.5 hours from Austin. We feature over 14 miles of trails, 2 fishing ponds, 4 boats that are free to use, and incredible views of the wide-open Texas night sky. With 24 unique campsites, we're sure to have one that fits your needs. We love sharing our working family ranch with others. If you'd like to see the history of our land, get a closer look at daily life out here, or see what we're currently up to, search for 5D Ranch online to find our full story, photos, and social channels. To make your stay extra special, we offer camping essential rentals, a custom S'mores package, and an interactive "Meet the Ponies" session that can be scheduled when you arrive. We can't wait to host you! PS. Don't forget to ask us about our farm-fresh eggs!
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The Lake at the Flying J Farm

3. The Lake at the Flying J Farm

98%
(988)
Johnstown, OH · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
The Flying J Farm is 250 beautiful rolling acres including 100 acres of forest, 6-acre lake small pond, three streams, and numerous fields for crops and pastures with cows. The owner bought the farm in 1998 for his retirement from a faculty position at the Ohio State university. Two buildings, the farm house and old barn, are original dating back to 1831. These have been restored for current use. The mission of the farm is to restore health both in people though the products produced and in the land by farming in a sustainable way with no conventional chemicals, antibiotics, and use of GMO. We host many visitors including tours and events. An on farm market is available to visitors for purchase of our products including grass-fed beef, maple syrup, and fruits and vegetables. The cabin was built using wood from the farm. It has off-grid electricity meaning it is powered by batteries charged by solar panels. There is not sufficient power for devices with a heating element such as coffee makers and hair dryers. You may charge cell phones. For any other use, please check with the owner. Wild Life. There is an abundance of wildlife to be observed on the farm. Deer can be seen at dusk, raccoons can be seen going through your camp food at night (if you put it in your car), turkeys, hawks, vultures, rabbits, coyotes (heard screaming at night), frogs (especially heard at night), fish (jumping), and many song birds (my favorite, the bobolink, May and June only, nesting in the pastures). Trash. This sustainable farm has no garbage hauling, please carry away your trash.
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Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

4. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

90%
(107)
National forest in Washington · 3357 sites
The largest national forest in the Pacific Northwest is a vast and varied haven for recreation.
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Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

5. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

91%
(96)
National forest in Utah · 2666 sites
2.1 million acres of unique wilderness scenery just begging to be explored.
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SoHi Campground

6. SoHi Campground

94%
(50)
Accord, NY · 374 sites · Tents, RVs
We still have plenty of availability for Labor Day!Discover the charm of our secluded campground, nestled within a serene wooded landscape that offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our tent sites provide a tranquil retreat, surrounded by nature, ensuring a peaceful camping experience. Yet sites are in ear clean bathrooms and showers with hot water. We are pleased to offer clean and well-maintained bathrooms and showers for your convenience. Additionally, we welcome RV and motorhome reservations, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Our large, shaded private sites are perfect for those seeking a bit of solitude, with a minimum stay of two nights to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. This season, we are committed to adhering to all Ulster County Pandemic Rules, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all our guests. We are excited to welcome you to our campground, where adventure awaits just beyond your doorstep. From nearby swimming holes to a variety of outdoor activities, as well as local restaurants and shops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We can't wait to see you!
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Blue Heron Landing

7. Blue Heron Landing

99%
(256)
Lobelville, TN · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Blue Heron Campground: A Hidden Gem of History and Nature Nestled along the Tennessee River, Blue Heron Campground offers a unique blend of rich history and natural beauty. Once home to the Cherokee Indians, this 358-acre property is surrounded by water on all sides, boasting a mile-and-a-half shoreline. Just to the north, a designated 20-mile Wildlife Refuge begins, following the river and offering plenty of opportunities for nature enthusiasts. The land itself is a treasure trove, with rich farmland that has grazed cattle and now offers primitive camping with no services, located just 10 miles west of Lobelville, Tennessee. People's Landing, now a swim beach and sand boat ramp, was once a bustling port of commerce. Before the advent of good roads, steamboats, ferry boats, and trains were the primary means of transportation. Just north of People's Landing, Daniel's Landing housed a post office and small store, serving the local community. The Tennessee River is one of only three rivers in the United States that flow north, making it a unique feature of the region. Today, visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, or simply watching the boats and barges pass by. For those looking to explore, a 20-mile day trip to Loretta Lynn's ranch or a 70-mile journey to Nashville awaits. The campground offers 358 acres of open meadows and forests to hike and explore, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local wildlife and a beautiful sunset over the river to end the day. Blue Heron Campground is truly a hidden gem, offering a perfect escape into history and nature.
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Sacred Nectar Sanctuary

8. Sacred Nectar Sanctuary

99%
(1497)
North Sandwich, NH · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Simply the best tenting you can find in the White Mountains. The campground to get away from campgrounds, where magic touches every corner. Sacred Nectar rests on the land of the Wabanaki Tribes. This land, now known by it's view gifting fields, is one of Sandwich's top treasured gems. The Historic Farm was purchased by Townsend Thorndike from the first colonizing family to claim ownership of this unceded land, the McCrillis family. It was Town's place to get away from the busy life. As time went on and his money dwindled and plans to sell off some of the land arose. Townsend's son, Nick, foresaw a devastating development of conventional homes that would diminish the soul of this sacred land that held so much magic. So, Nick decided to move back to the homestead to create an example of what a healthy life for the land and its inhabitants looks like. HipCamp was the first step towards sharing and opening up the land to create an Intentional lifestyle. One in which we hope to share our way of being that brings awareness to the natural world we have fallen so far from. Nick and his tribe of like minds are creating a holistic, educational, retreat, workshop, and event center where people can come to learn how to co-exist in a harmonious relationship with nature and each other. Thank you for being a part of the healing. We hope you enjoy what we have created here :)
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Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

9. Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

97%
(345)
Tiff, MO · 57 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape the city! We have a very special property that nourishes the soul and provides space to roam and breathe fresh air. We have 420 acres to explore. A beautiful creek running through our property. We have cows, mules, goats, dogs and cats. We are on a bluff so if you are rock hunters you have come to the right place. We offer rock hunting. and we have extra buckets. We have the best Drusy (lots of colors), Crazy Lace Agate, Calcite, Chalcedony, Quartz, Chert, Barite, Bladed Barite, Iron Ores and more. Check us out on Facebook Hawks Bluff Farm Rocks and Drusy. We have firewood, ice, eggs, ground beef, propane exchange and new propane tanks available. Ask us about our kayaking options!
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Boise National Forest

10. Boise National Forest

81%
(43)
National forest in Idaho · 653 sites
You could say Boise National Forest is in the tri-forest area. It is surrounded on all sides by Payette, Salmon-Challis, and Sawtooth National Forests, it is situated conveniently close to both urban fun in Boise, and limitless wilderness adventures everywhere else. Alpine tundra is dotted with evergreen forest in the green rolling hills here, topped with snow, and anchored by sparkling valley waterways. The Payette River is great for rafting, while Banks Beach and Beehive Bend are just some of the prime access points on the forest’s 250 lakes and reservoirs (Arrowrock Reservoir has surprisingly primo salmon fishing for central Idaho). Hikers will find 500 trails, including some that lead to 360-panoramic views at fire lookouts. The ambitious should try 10,000-foot high Trinity Mountain, while more liesurely trekkers will get just as good a view at Silver Creek. As if that’s not all enough to keep you busy, there are also endless mountain biking trails, including a scenic route along Shafer Butte. You’ll have your hands full at this intersection of so many great parks!
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Ashley National Forest

11. Ashley National Forest

89%
(14)
National forest in Utah · 1000 sites
Choose some majestic highlights in this mountainous national forest.
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Electrical hookup
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Tahoe National Forest

12. Tahoe National Forest

92%
(264)
National forest in California · 1382 sites
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
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Inyo National Forest

13. Inyo National Forest

96%
(460)
National forest in California · 1976 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
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Fruitdale Farm

14. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(930)
Bainbridge, OH · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Come stay at our little sustainable farmstead amid the beautiful rolling hills of southern Ohio! Our peaceful 20 acres has a good mix of woods, wild meadows and maintained cleared areas as well as a small pond, all of which can be explored via our nature trail. Enjoy the sounds of nature and an incredible night sky. FIREWOOD and seasonal farm goods are available for purchase at a self-serve stand (several payment options available). There is also a wonderful sauna on the property that can be reserved (go to sauna to reserve a time). Great hiking, kayaking, biking, birding, fishing, swimming, and disc-golfing opportunities just a few miles away at Paint Creek State Park and the Highland Nature Sanctuary. Amish country is also just 15 minutes away with a great bakery, markets and greenhouses. This area is home to an impressive network of ancient earthworks including the world famous Serpent Mound. Our accommodations range from primitive tent-camping to "glamping" in one of our tiny off-grid cabins. The sites are spaced out for privacy and each site offers a private picnic table and fire pit. There are two shared privies/outhouses which have basic composting toilets (not flushing). A grassy parking area is provided near the road, however, ALL SITES ARE WALK-IN (with the exception of site #1). ***Please take note that this is private property and the host lives on site. If you are looking for a place to be loud and party into the night, this is not the place for you. If you are looking to spend some quality time in nature, welcome. There are rules. *** The gazebo kitchen is NOT COMMUNAL as it is connected to the Fern Cabin (Fern cabin guests have exclusive access to the kitchen). The kitchen IS included for those who book "The Whole Darn Place".
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Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

15. Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

99%
(204)
New Canton, VA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
**Fires are allowed at all sites, fire ring provided** **New half bathroom with flushing sink and toilet available to all campers. (3 Porta potties are also available)** Experience the ultimate outdoor retreat on our stunning 56-acre property in Buckingham County, Virginia. With a combination of pristine waters, abundant wildlife, and serene camping sites, this is the perfect getaway for nature lovers, anglers, and adventurers. Water Features 25-Acre Lake: The centerpiece of the property, this expansive lake features deep areas, a submerged dam, natural springs, and peaceful coves. It’s fully stocked with Bass, Crappie, Catfish, and Brim, offering exceptional fishing opportunities. Two Additional Ponds: Explore two smaller ponds, one of which features a covered gazebo and dock, perfect for relaxing, fishing, or soaking in the views. Waterfront Campsites Lakeside Tent Sites: Each campsite is located along the water, providing stunning views and direct access to the lake. Easy Setup: Guests can drive their vehicles directly to the campsites for convenience. Kayaks Provided: Complimentary kayaks are available for exploring the lake’s hidden gems. Wildlife Haven Often described as an outdoorsman’s paradise, the property is alive with diverse wildlife and offers incredible opportunities for nature enthusiasts. Wildlife Sightings: Regular visitors include deer, eagles, ducks, geese, frogs, turtles, and beavers. Birdwatching: Enjoy spotting majestic eagles and other bird species in their natural habitat. Activities and Amenities Fishing: Cast a line in the lake or ponds for a relaxing and rewarding experience. Boating: Explore the lake’s tranquil waters with provided kayaks. Relaxation Spaces: Take in the views from the gazebo and dock by the pond, or unwind at your campsite by the water. Stargazing & Campfires: Evenings bring clear skies and the perfect setting for fireside chats. Whether you’re fishing, kayaking, wildlife watching, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, this property is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of nature. Book your campsite today and experience the serenity and adventure of this unique property!
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Wine Trail Wilderness

16. Wine Trail Wilderness

100%
(734)
Pomona, IL · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa". Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy. Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes. We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience and believe all should enjoy this beautiful part of the country. LGBTQ are all welcome and accepted. We welcome all types of campers. Wine Trail Wilderness HipCamp was just honored with the "Top 50 Favorite Places to Camp in America" this year! We're honored to receive that distinguished title, and look forward to seeing y'all come out and camp in the beautiful Shawnee National Forest.
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Grateful Acres Vermont

17. Grateful Acres Vermont

100%
(590)
West Dover, VT · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land: Welcome to Grateful Acres Vermont, a 420 friendly, Grateful Dead inspired camping destination in the heart of the Green Mountains. We have space available for tents, campers, and trailers. Kayaks available to rent for use at the reservoir located just up the road. Just a family with some land in Vermont that we would like to share. PLEASE OBSERVE THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT
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sol duc rainforest retreat

18. sol duc rainforest retreat

93%
(1318)
Port Angeles, WA · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Stay at our private piece of rain forest paradise. Our 9 acres of forest is adjacent to the Olympic national park and the Olympic discovery trail. Camp next to Lake Crescent and the Sol Duc river/ hot springs, immersed in the Olympic rain forest, next to a bubbling creek. There is hiking , biking and boating in all directions. Each camp is semi secluded, surrounded in ferns and old growth trees. With many trails that loop around and covered outdoor kitchens, its a great spot to chill and cook or explore the forests thousands of ferns and bubbling brooks . Located a mile and a half from Lake Crescent, adjacent to the Olympic Discovery Trail and the Olympic National Park, our property is a perfect gathering point to explore the possibilities of the peninsula. You will think you're in the park.
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Pea Ridge Bike Camp

19. Pea Ridge Bike Camp

99%
(289)
Pea Ridge, AR · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
**NOTE: If the campground is full, always call to see if I have additional sites. The Pea Ridge Bike Camp has 20 primitive campsites available for visitors to Northwest Arkansas and can accommodate tent campers, campervans, small and large campers and RVs. Even smaller Class A motorhomes (length isn't an issue but weight on a grassy field might be a concern should it rain heavily) We offer large, spacious campsites along with firepits, free firewood and large cable spool tables at each campsite. Potable water, 2 outdoor sinks, 2 outdoor showers, 4 large ADA portable toilets (1 in front and 3 in back), and trash bins are centrally located to most of the areas. There is a large in-ground community firepit, a large canopy, 4 picnic tables on the property, a propane barbecue grill, a bike wash station, 2 hammocks on frames and a vintage phone booth (with phone charging capabilities, visitor information and trail maps) onsite. We have added a school bus with a booth and 3 benches as a hangout during inclimate weather. We are currently providing free firewood for each firepit. Very flexible check in/out times. Pea Ridge Bike Camp is about 7 miles to downtown Bentonville and only 5 miles from Exit 88 and I-49. We are located n the country, yet only 1/8 mile to state highway 72. Restaurants, food trucks, groceries, banking and laundry facilities are only 2 miles away in Pea Ridge. We have 10 designated campsites and 10 dispersed campsite locations that are not in any designated area to allow guests some say as to where they camp. We are very flexible with arrival and departure times. We do offer group camping We will allow low-noise generators to be used in dispersed campsites. ** Please let us know If you are planning to use a generator. Our campsites are large with some being very shady and others in full sun. Great for those equipped with solar power. Since our intention is to provide camping space for visitors to the area, we limited the length-of-stay to 10 days. If you are a VISITOR to the area looking to stay for more than 10 days please notify me and I can lift the length-of-stay. Please call with any questions or concerns.
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Spring Lake Ranch

20. Spring Lake Ranch

92%
(1503)
Potosi, MO · 39 sites · Tents, RVs
Spring Lake Ranch boasts countless trails and lake activities. Formerly known as Sayersbrook Bison ranch, at one time it was one of the largest Bison ranches in the world. This property is filled with amazing things to see and explore. Nothing like it in Missouri. Lake is 60+ acres and is spring fed. Amazing fishing, swimming and kayaking. We are pet friendly. You will have amazing lake views and will be close to hiking trails, horseback riding, and wine tasting at Edge Cliff Wineries which is next door to us. The beautiful shower house is super clean, has restrooms and hot showers and it is within walking distance. Firewood and ice are available to purchase; kayaks and fishing poles are available for rent. If you forget something at home stop by our little country store, we might have it! :) The sites are about 20 ft from each other - if you are looking for more privacy please check out the secluded site or the peninsula. **The pool on property is reserved for the lodge guests only, it is not open to the public.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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