The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds in United States

Set up your tent by the water’s edge or tuck into a riverside nook—the United States offers over 180,000 tent camping spots along rivers, from wide open banks to shaded, tucked-away bends. Expect average nightly rates around $50, with no-frills options dipping as low as $1 if you’re just looking to roll out a sleeping bag. You’ll find toilets, showers, and fire pits at many sites, so you can focus on what you came for: long swims, casting a line, or spotting heron at dawn. For a tried-and-tested spot, check out Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp (2,805 reviews), Cedar Bloom (1,798 reviews), or Jug Handle Creek Farm (1,781 reviews). Bring a good headlamp and a dry bag—river camping is straightforward, but the best spots go to those who come ready.

96% (316.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds

81%

(42)

653 sites · Lowman, Idaho

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!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Ashley National Forest

88%

(13)

1000 sites · Whiterocks, Utah

Choose some majestic highlights in this mountainous national forest.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

12. Tahoe National Forest

93%

(255)

1382 sites · Graniteville, California

Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.

Pets

100%

(380)

4 sites · RVs · Patagonia, AZ

Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek was created as a place to enjoy the unique treasures of Patagonia, AZ. We wanted to provide a haven for people who value the outdoors to gather and take advantage of the recreational opportunities in our area. We offer three RV full hookup RV sites. We also have two vintage trailers that are available through Airbnb. We're walking distance to the Tucson Audubon's Paton Center for Hummingbirds and the Sonoita Creek Nature Conservancy. We're also walking distance to restaurants and shopping in the Town of Patagonia. Patagonia Lake is only 8 miles away.

Camper favorites in United States

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Bowman's Landing

100%

(162)

11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fort White, FL

We are a 12.5 acre campground on the Sante Fe River. We have cabins as well as primitive car campsites directly on the river as well. See the following distances: Ginnie Springs - 6 miles Blue Springs - 9 miles Ichetucknee Springs - 4 miles Gainesville - 38 miles Rum 138 - 8 miles Lake City - 27 miles White Springs - 38 miles Branford - 13 miles High Springs - 12 miles Dollar General - 3 miles Publix - 15 miles Bobs River Place - 20 miles

9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Milton, FL

Located 20 minutes north of downtown Milton, FL, The Wandering Path is a serene escape, offering a unique blend of untouched natural beauty and comfortable accommodations. With 2000 feet of waterfront along the picturesque Coldwater Creek, this nature retreat is a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life, set within a sprawling 20-acre landscape. Accommodations at The Wandering Path are designed for those seeking a peaceful retreat. 4 glamping tents, equipped with real full-size beds, portable AC for summer, heaters for winter, and essential amenities, ensure a comfortable stay amidst nature. Each tent is adorned with solar string lights, and outdoor essentials like a picnic table, fire pit ring, small charcoal grill, and trash can are provided. There is 1 RV site with 30 amp electric and water. For those who prefer a more raw connection with nature, 4 primitive campsites are available, each equipped with solar string lights, a fire pit ring, and a trash can. Guests have access to a centrally located bathhouse with two full bathrooms, ensuring comfort and convenience. There is an outdoor kitchen for all guests to use. There is no cookware, silverware or dishes. There is a counter-top oven, toaster, 2 stove top burners, 1 flat top griddle, sink and keurig coffee maker. There are reusable k-cups for you to put your own coffee in, or your own k-cups. The property boasts 2000 feet of trails alongside the creek, perfect for hiking and exploring the natural surroundings. Kayak rentals are available for guests with appropriate vehicles, and fishing enthusiasts are welcome to cast their lines into the spring-fed creek. At The Wandering Path, nights come alive under a starlit sky, unblemished by city lights, making every evening perfect for a campfire. It’s more than just a stay; it’s an experience of tranquility, a chance to recharge amidst nature’s embrace. We look forward to becoming your go-to spot when you’re in need of recharging. We are less than 1 hour from Pensacola and Navarre beaches, 15-20 minutes to local grocery stores and restaurants. At this time, no pets or children under 12 are allowed in yurts. ***All pets do require prior approval to maintain the safety of other guests.

36 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sue-meg State Park (Patrick's Point State Park)

Stories from the community

Camp site is next to an old pioneer rock wall fence and in a grove of mature trees

Sean

6 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

This was our second stay here, and we’re glad we came back. The first trip was about 50% rain, so we wanted to come back and fully enjoy Blasingame Camp. William and the Gray family are super friendly, the property is beautiful and very private, and there’s plenty to keep adults/kids/pup entertained without leaving. Being close to Blanco Square is a big bonus, and the bathroom upgrade since our last visit was much appreciated. Highly recommend — we’ll be back.

J

Joshua

6 days ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bowman's Landing

I loved the cabin and the property. There were people around enough to point us in the right direction for the bathroom but still we had the place to ourselves. We were dreaming of the next time we could go back on the car ride home.

Cabin 5 is the largest of our cabins with a queen and bunked twins. It’s also taller than the others.

U

Ujjwal

1 week ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

Definitely one of the best places I have stayed in a while!

Campsite fire ring and cedar stump seats

Loyce

1 week ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Absolutely beautiful, large and well-maintained area that includes large fire pit, table and chairs, tent pad, and easterly view of area. Would have been an awesome sunrise if not for foggy morning. Peaceful night under the Texas stars!

H

Holly

1 week ago

Tent

3 nights at Bowman's Landing

What an awesome place and an awesome host. I forgot my paddle and kayak seat and Nancy hooked me up with what I needed. Bathroom was clean and the site was wonderful.

K

Kate

1 week ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

4 nights at The Bus Stop Campground

Excellent wifi, super hot showers, beautiful sunsets, 10/10 all around :-)

S

Sue

2 weeks ago

18 ft campervan

2 nights at J and P Creekside Retreat

Very laid back with a campsite surrounded by trees. Was looking for a staycation to take a break and rest received it in spades I'll be back. Really enjoyed Kayaking the creek Upstream.

The gorgeous, green/blue water of the Llano River is perfect for a quick dip to cool off, or in February, a refreshing way to start the day!

M

Morgan

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

What a gem. Perfectly centered between sunset and moonrise. Perfect place to bake like a lizard on a warm riverside rock.

Lee

2 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at The Bus Stop Campground

Very nice campground. The big pegs and sledgehammer really helped. Firepit is heavy duty and wash bin is great.

M

Mario

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Another great stay. Great views at this campsite. Very relaxing.

Park your RV and step into riverside bliss, with exclusive access to the beautiful Medina River just 200 yards away

S

Sam

2 weeks ago

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Bend River Retreat

Really enjoyed our weekend here. All the RV hookups worked great and were easily accessible. Good fishing in the Medina!

B

Blaire

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Bus Stop Campground

This place was perfect! Exactly what we were looking for.

B

Billie

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Bus Stop Campground

Great spot! Running water, electric hookups, clean hot showers, clean restrooms, and insane views. Definitely recommend this spot. We took our truck with a tent on top.

D

Deborah

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Costa Myakka

It was a wonderful experience. It was calmong and peaceful. Rebecca, her husband Kery, and son were awesome hosts! We will definitely be back with our family. Love the fact it was dog friendly! Thank you so much it was it was exactly what my wife ordered!

S

Steve

2 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at Heartwood Mendocino

A true gem in the forest of Mendocino. The attention to details and hospitality was amazing. The communal spaces are well thought out and create an almost hostel like experience. Being pet friendly was a huge plus. We can't wait to visit again!

G

George

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Bus Stop Campground

Site was in good shape and mostly level. Bathrooms were clean upon arrival.

G

Gavin

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Bend River Retreat

Great location! The river was awesome to fish and the property was pretty clean. Only complaint were dogs barking but it died down after sunset.

Lauren

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

William’s land was perfect for a friendsgiving camping trip! Felt super safe and private. Really easy to get to - didn’t see anybody besides our group while we were there but were still close enough to town for anything we needed. Nice trails around the property to explore and we appreciated that you can have firewood at the site upon arrival. Would definitely recommend!