The best lakeside camping near Dayton

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If you’re looking to camp lakeside around Dayton, you have over 650 options tailored to this terrain. Sites cluster near the region’s lakes, giving easy access to swimming, snow sports, and prime wildlife-watching. Campers often mention the convenience of showers, pet-friendly policies, and that campfires are allowed. Prices start as low as $22 per night, with the average hovering around $60. For trusted picks, check out Country Outpost RV Site (45 reviews), The Shack (39 reviews), or On Cedar Pond (37 reviews). You’ll find sites set up for easy mornings by the water and quiet evenings under the trees. Bring your fishing pole or binoculars—this area rewards curiosity.

98% (174) 50 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Dayton

Sky Lake Camping & Fishing

1. Sky Lake Camping & Fishing

97%
(15)
24mi from Dayton · 5 sites · RVs
A Boondockers Dream! Camp on a private acre lake away from it all. Enjoy fishing on a professionally stocked and managed pay lake (fishing pass purchase required) or an evening fire at the pavilion while the sun sets! PLEASE NOTE: These sites do not have any hookups, a SELF CONTAINED RV IS REQUIRED. NO Tent/Car camping. Generators are allowed to be used. A dump station is available to use in the RV park. - Booking a site number does not guarantee that location - sites are first come first serve and located by the pavilion. No Campfires are allowed in the Boondocking area but there is a community fire pit by the pavilion. Learn more about this land: 113 Acre Campground & RV Park - 50 Acres of Stocked Fishing Lakes - 4 Season Park Open Year-Round - Full Hook Up Waterfront RV Sites Available for Additional Fee, please call - Close to I-70, Yellow Springs OH, Clark County Fairgrounds, Air Force Museum, Clifton Gorge, Buck Creek, John Bryan State Park and much much More! Centrally Located Between Columbus, Ohio and Dayton, Ohio. SkyLakeRV.com
Pets
from 
$39
 / night
The Shack

2. The Shack

96%
(67)
30mi from Dayton · 3 sites · Tents
This elevated shack overlooks a pond and is conveniently located within walking distance of Cowan Lake. The road is a nice place to go for a walk taking in the wildlife, cattle farm, and ending at the lake. This State Park provides a wonderful opportunity to hike, bird watch, and enjoy water recreation. The lake has a 10 hp limit, so it is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, fishing, and sailing.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$41
 / night
Country Outpost RV Site

3. Country Outpost RV Site

99%
(60)
35mi from Dayton · 1 site · RV
Looking for a couple acres all to yourself?  Then overnight your self-contained RV at our retired Christmas tree farm.  An active "choose-n-cut" tree farm until 2019, we're letting most of our farm grow wild with some deciduous trees also. There are walking trails throughout the "woods" and around our 3/4 acre fishing pond (catch n release please).  Relax on the bench on the old country store porch or by the fire ring, fish, or stretch your legs and walk the dog.   A pleasant, private, isolated spot in the country to overnight or spend a couple days.  If you're a small family staying just one night, there is no "extra guest" fee for dependent children. Includes a 30 amp service hookup.  Gravel parking lot angles slightly up hill.   No tents, no swimming please.  2 nights max per stay.  No bathrooms on site! Operated by Outpost Enterprises, LTD *** Ohio Revised Code Section 3729.15 *** WARNING: Under Ohio law, there is no liability for an injury to or death of a camper or visitor to this campground if that injury or death results from the risk inherent to camping. Inherent risks to camping include, but are not limited to, the risk of injury inherent to land features, equipment, animals, or the negligent actions of the camper or visitor. You are assuming the risk of participating in camping.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
$25
 / night
Caesar Creek State Park

4. Caesar Creek State Park

93%
(7)
25 sites · Harveysburg, Ohio
Boasting clear blue waters and steep ravines, put on that toga friend, because you'll feel like Roman royalty at Caesar Creek State Park. Practice old-school hunting techniques at the archery range, or snag your dinner like the ancients did with those fishing tricks up your sleeves. With swimming opportunities galore, a 1,300-ft public beach provides the perfect milieu to bronze that sculpted body. Hike, bike, or horseback ride one of several trails, where you can study the region's limestone and shales leftover from a dried up sea millions of years ago. Modern amenities sneak their way in as well, where you can motorboat the 2,830 acre lake with gusto. Hail Caesar Creek State Park!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Buck Creek State Park

5. Buck Creek State Park

90%
(5)
23 sites · Northridge, Ohio
Quintessential glamping! For all those campers of comfort who wanna get away without leaving the amenities of home behind, Buck Creek has a room for you. The park has a bunch of fully loaded cottages for rent that are, let’s be honest, probably nicer than your apartment. And for those who like a little dirt in their sandwich (possibly literally), there’s also tent campsites available. The park is centered around a massive lake, where you can boat, swim, fish and even scuba dive. And get this, speed demons: there’s several unlimited ski and horsepower zones. For the leisure-seekers, there’s miles of trails to bike or amble, with plenty of overlooks to observe the array of rare and unusual plants and animals. Legit need some R&R? Just kick back and enjoy the view from your cottage’s ridiculously charming screened-in porch.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Country Heir

6. Country Heir

97%
(46)
42mi from Dayton · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
280 acre farm family owned for 120 years. Currently hunter jumper horse showing venue with wooded campgrounds, lakes, fire pits, volleyball, fishing and beautiful surroundings. Gorgeous sunrises and sunsets.Learn more about this land:A piece of heaven 45 minutes east of Cincinnati. Beautifully maintained property on a horse farm . 12 wooded campsites, fishing on lake 3, country serenity, fire rings and gorgeous surroundings . Check out our photos.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
The Love Shack Cabin Getaway

7. The Love Shack Cabin Getaway

95%
(39)
48mi from Dayton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Cabin - sleeps 4 - with AC/Heat & Mini Fridge and hydrant water outside. No pets inside cabin. OR camp spot with 30 amp electric/hydrant water. If you're interested in using cabin & 30 amp service for camper, contact us before booking. Additional fee applies. There are covered areas you can take shelter under in case of poor weather. Bathroom consists of "outhouse." TP provided. No WiFi. Fish CATCH & RELEASE only!!!! Surveillance is now in place to aid in the prosecution situations. Two picnic tables are included, 1 plastic serving table and 6 chairs to sit in. One campfire ring (please do not burn trash/cig butts in rings) with grate to cook on. Firewood $6 per bundle paypable on Ven mo. Do not cut any of my trees down or go foraging - backside of pond is a wetland and private & protected property. Several docks around the pond to fish from - use at your own risk. There are no dedicated "walking trails," but you can walk around the backside of the one pond (we keep it mowed) and wander down the long lane. No official "cooking area" - bring a grill, cooking stove or cook over the fire. Please do not cook under any roof, near cabin or on plastic table. Please pack all your trash out. We don't have trash pick up here. All dog/animals feces can be flung in the field/tall grass! Lots of big catfish, bass & bluegill - see our F B page for videos of the fish being fed! If you're done fishing for the night or don't fish, bags of fish food are available for $1! It's fun to watch them! All food is stored in containers in shack. They like to eat in the morning or early evening. Also like hot dogs. You understand that swimming, camping, hiking and fishing is at your own risk and that special risks may be involved with swimming, camping, hiking and fishing. You accept full responsibility for any bodily injury arising from swimming, camping, hiking and fishing and hold owner harmless. You understand there are potential dangers that from swimming, camping, hiking and fishing may present to children who are not carefully supervised, as well as the danger to any person swimming, camping, hiking or fishing if a person has health risks, or if a person swims, camps, hikes or fishes while intoxicated or using any kind of drugs or medication, or while pregnant. You agree to be fully and solely responsible for any accidents you may incur. You understand the risks discussed above and agree that you will assume all responsibility for yourself and for the consequences of those in your party. You agree to waive any claim whatsoever against owner for accidents or claims arising from swimming, camping, hiking or fishing. All Hipcamp Guests in my party acknowledge and agree that they have read and understand this waiver and they acknowledge that confirming below constitutes a binding and enforceable contract between Hipcamp Guests and Hipcamp Host.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$125
 / night
Indian Lake Adventures

8. Indian Lake Adventures

100%
(3)
49mi from Dayton · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled between Indian Lake and Ohio's favorite small town, Bellefontaine, OH, Indian Lake Adventures is the ideal place to lodge. Our rentable tiny homes are modern and clean, our spacious RV sites boast 30/50 amp full-hookup amenities, and our tent sites are premium and secluded. Spanning over 29 acres with a charming creek and a catch/release pond, this camp provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation. Mature trees and tranquil surroundings offer a serene escape for your camping experience. Take the stress out of camping at Indian Lake Adventures! Our camp store is filled with all your necessities and a campground cafe and on site brewery take the stress out of packing, so you and yours can show up as we are and feel well taken care of! Pizza and wings delivered to your site, on-site brewery with game room, regular kids activities and family friendly events ensures fun for everyone throughout your stay.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Kiser Lake State Park

9. Kiser Lake State Park

22 sites · Rosewood, Ohio
Sail away, sail away, sail away... at Kiser Lake State Park this weekend! Known mostly for its perfect sailing waters, Kaiser Lake attracts many families all summer long. But did you know Kiser Lake State Park is also open in the winter? For those brave enough to handle the cold and snow, there are activities such as cross-country skiing and ice skating to get your muscles into gear! Hit the trails or hit the water. The choice is yours (anytime of year!) at Kiser Lake State Park!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cowan Lake State Park

10. Cowan Lake State Park

75%
(4)
25 sites · Wilmington, Ohio
Picturesque inlets adorned with lotus water lilies will transport you to tranquility at Cowan Lake State Park. Study bloodroot and trillium wildflowers as you listen to the coo of herons and pheasants on the resident lake. With a 1,000-ft long beach for waterfront activities and limited horsepower on boats that traverse the waters, this place is sure to keep its cool. Cast a line for the plentiful bounty of fish or hike one of the six trails to choose from—this is your vacation, after all. Bring some looseleaf tea and a pair of chopsticks, and you're ready to go zen.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hueston Woods State Park

11. Hueston Woods State Park

100%
(2)
24 sites · College Corner, Ohio
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Stonelick State Park

12. Stonelick State Park

24 sites · Newtonsville, Ohio
Nestled along forested highlands, Stonelick State Park's 1,058-acres of serene land is the perfect spot for that librarian conference you always wanted to attend but never planned. Hike the fairly short trails around the park or even rent a bicycle if you're ready to switch gears. Four different species of fish are ready for the taking with an Ohio state fishing license, and boats with electric motors are welcome on the lake once you're ready to explore all corners of the 200-acre body of water. If you're hoping for some quality animal sighting, consider driving over to the nearby Crooked Run Nature Preserve, where glances of blue herons and bald eagles are what classic stories are made of.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Loramie State Park

13. Lake Loramie State Park

21 sites · Fort Loramie, Ohio
No kayak? No problem. Lake Loramie State Park provides rentals for everything from bikes to canoes, and you'll want to take advantage of it to get the most out of your stay. Paddle past patches of water lilies shaded by bald cypress trees, where the beauty here has long been preserved. Hikers will enjoy trekking over to Blackberry Island, where they can catch a glimpse of owls and woodpeckers nesting in their native habitat. A large variety of fish inhabiting the lake and seasonal hunting forays may also appeal to your wild side. Come winter, return for the cross country skiing tournament on the Little Turtle Trace trail, or bring a pair of skates and a sled for some awesome frosty activities. With ice boating available as well, you'll never want to be without a paddle here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Brookville Lake

14. Brookville Lake

100%
(1)
437 sites · Brookville, Indiana
Anglers love the lake nestled in this historic area of Indiana.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

If you’re looking to camp lakeside around Dayton, you have over 650 options tailored to this terrain. Sites cluster near the region’s lakes, giving easy access to swimming, snow sports, and prime wildlife-watching. Campers often mention the convenience of showers, pet-friendly policies, and that campfires are allowed. Prices start as low as $22 per night, with the average hovering around $60. For trusted picks, check out Country Outpost RV Site (45 reviews), The Shack (39 reviews), or On Cedar Pond (37 reviews). You’ll find sites set up for easy mornings by the water and quiet evenings under the trees. Bring your fishing pole or binoculars—this area rewards curiosity.

98% (174) 50 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Dayton

Sky Lake Camping & Fishing

1. Sky Lake Camping & Fishing

97%
(15)
24mi from Dayton · 5 sites · RVs
A Boondockers Dream! Camp on a private acre lake away from it all. Enjoy fishing on a professionally stocked and managed pay lake (fishing pass purchase required) or an evening fire at the pavilion while the sun sets! PLEASE NOTE: These sites do not have any hookups, a SELF CONTAINED RV IS REQUIRED. NO Tent/Car camping. Generators are allowed to be used. A dump station is available to use in the RV park. - Booking a site number does not guarantee that location - sites are first come first serve and located by the pavilion. No Campfires are allowed in the Boondocking area but there is a community fire pit by the pavilion. Learn more about this land: 113 Acre Campground & RV Park - 50 Acres of Stocked Fishing Lakes - 4 Season Park Open Year-Round - Full Hook Up Waterfront RV Sites Available for Additional Fee, please call - Close to I-70, Yellow Springs OH, Clark County Fairgrounds, Air Force Museum, Clifton Gorge, Buck Creek, John Bryan State Park and much much More! Centrally Located Between Columbus, Ohio and Dayton, Ohio. SkyLakeRV.com
Pets
from 
$39
 / night
The Shack

2. The Shack

96%
(67)
30mi from Dayton · 3 sites · Tents
This elevated shack overlooks a pond and is conveniently located within walking distance of Cowan Lake. The road is a nice place to go for a walk taking in the wildlife, cattle farm, and ending at the lake. This State Park provides a wonderful opportunity to hike, bird watch, and enjoy water recreation. The lake has a 10 hp limit, so it is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, fishing, and sailing.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$41
 / night
Country Outpost RV Site

3. Country Outpost RV Site

99%
(60)
35mi from Dayton · 1 site · RV
Looking for a couple acres all to yourself?  Then overnight your self-contained RV at our retired Christmas tree farm.  An active "choose-n-cut" tree farm until 2019, we're letting most of our farm grow wild with some deciduous trees also. There are walking trails throughout the "woods" and around our 3/4 acre fishing pond (catch n release please).  Relax on the bench on the old country store porch or by the fire ring, fish, or stretch your legs and walk the dog.   A pleasant, private, isolated spot in the country to overnight or spend a couple days.  If you're a small family staying just one night, there is no "extra guest" fee for dependent children. Includes a 30 amp service hookup.  Gravel parking lot angles slightly up hill.   No tents, no swimming please.  2 nights max per stay.  No bathrooms on site! Operated by Outpost Enterprises, LTD *** Ohio Revised Code Section 3729.15 *** WARNING: Under Ohio law, there is no liability for an injury to or death of a camper or visitor to this campground if that injury or death results from the risk inherent to camping. Inherent risks to camping include, but are not limited to, the risk of injury inherent to land features, equipment, animals, or the negligent actions of the camper or visitor. You are assuming the risk of participating in camping.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
$25
 / night
Caesar Creek State Park

4. Caesar Creek State Park

93%
(7)
25 sites · Harveysburg, Ohio
Boasting clear blue waters and steep ravines, put on that toga friend, because you'll feel like Roman royalty at Caesar Creek State Park. Practice old-school hunting techniques at the archery range, or snag your dinner like the ancients did with those fishing tricks up your sleeves. With swimming opportunities galore, a 1,300-ft public beach provides the perfect milieu to bronze that sculpted body. Hike, bike, or horseback ride one of several trails, where you can study the region's limestone and shales leftover from a dried up sea millions of years ago. Modern amenities sneak their way in as well, where you can motorboat the 2,830 acre lake with gusto. Hail Caesar Creek State Park!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Buck Creek State Park

5. Buck Creek State Park

90%
(5)
23 sites · Northridge, Ohio
Quintessential glamping! For all those campers of comfort who wanna get away without leaving the amenities of home behind, Buck Creek has a room for you. The park has a bunch of fully loaded cottages for rent that are, let’s be honest, probably nicer than your apartment. And for those who like a little dirt in their sandwich (possibly literally), there’s also tent campsites available. The park is centered around a massive lake, where you can boat, swim, fish and even scuba dive. And get this, speed demons: there’s several unlimited ski and horsepower zones. For the leisure-seekers, there’s miles of trails to bike or amble, with plenty of overlooks to observe the array of rare and unusual plants and animals. Legit need some R&R? Just kick back and enjoy the view from your cottage’s ridiculously charming screened-in porch.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Country Heir

6. Country Heir

97%
(46)
42mi from Dayton · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
280 acre farm family owned for 120 years. Currently hunter jumper horse showing venue with wooded campgrounds, lakes, fire pits, volleyball, fishing and beautiful surroundings. Gorgeous sunrises and sunsets.Learn more about this land:A piece of heaven 45 minutes east of Cincinnati. Beautifully maintained property on a horse farm . 12 wooded campsites, fishing on lake 3, country serenity, fire rings and gorgeous surroundings . Check out our photos.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
The Love Shack Cabin Getaway

7. The Love Shack Cabin Getaway

95%
(39)
48mi from Dayton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Cabin - sleeps 4 - with AC/Heat & Mini Fridge and hydrant water outside. No pets inside cabin. OR camp spot with 30 amp electric/hydrant water. If you're interested in using cabin & 30 amp service for camper, contact us before booking. Additional fee applies. There are covered areas you can take shelter under in case of poor weather. Bathroom consists of "outhouse." TP provided. No WiFi. Fish CATCH & RELEASE only!!!! Surveillance is now in place to aid in the prosecution situations. Two picnic tables are included, 1 plastic serving table and 6 chairs to sit in. One campfire ring (please do not burn trash/cig butts in rings) with grate to cook on. Firewood $6 per bundle paypable on Ven mo. Do not cut any of my trees down or go foraging - backside of pond is a wetland and private & protected property. Several docks around the pond to fish from - use at your own risk. There are no dedicated "walking trails," but you can walk around the backside of the one pond (we keep it mowed) and wander down the long lane. No official "cooking area" - bring a grill, cooking stove or cook over the fire. Please do not cook under any roof, near cabin or on plastic table. Please pack all your trash out. We don't have trash pick up here. All dog/animals feces can be flung in the field/tall grass! Lots of big catfish, bass & bluegill - see our F B page for videos of the fish being fed! If you're done fishing for the night or don't fish, bags of fish food are available for $1! It's fun to watch them! All food is stored in containers in shack. They like to eat in the morning or early evening. Also like hot dogs. You understand that swimming, camping, hiking and fishing is at your own risk and that special risks may be involved with swimming, camping, hiking and fishing. You accept full responsibility for any bodily injury arising from swimming, camping, hiking and fishing and hold owner harmless. You understand there are potential dangers that from swimming, camping, hiking and fishing may present to children who are not carefully supervised, as well as the danger to any person swimming, camping, hiking or fishing if a person has health risks, or if a person swims, camps, hikes or fishes while intoxicated or using any kind of drugs or medication, or while pregnant. You agree to be fully and solely responsible for any accidents you may incur. You understand the risks discussed above and agree that you will assume all responsibility for yourself and for the consequences of those in your party. You agree to waive any claim whatsoever against owner for accidents or claims arising from swimming, camping, hiking or fishing. All Hipcamp Guests in my party acknowledge and agree that they have read and understand this waiver and they acknowledge that confirming below constitutes a binding and enforceable contract between Hipcamp Guests and Hipcamp Host.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$125
 / night
Indian Lake Adventures

8. Indian Lake Adventures

100%
(3)
49mi from Dayton · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled between Indian Lake and Ohio's favorite small town, Bellefontaine, OH, Indian Lake Adventures is the ideal place to lodge. Our rentable tiny homes are modern and clean, our spacious RV sites boast 30/50 amp full-hookup amenities, and our tent sites are premium and secluded. Spanning over 29 acres with a charming creek and a catch/release pond, this camp provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation. Mature trees and tranquil surroundings offer a serene escape for your camping experience. Take the stress out of camping at Indian Lake Adventures! Our camp store is filled with all your necessities and a campground cafe and on site brewery take the stress out of packing, so you and yours can show up as we are and feel well taken care of! Pizza and wings delivered to your site, on-site brewery with game room, regular kids activities and family friendly events ensures fun for everyone throughout your stay.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Kiser Lake State Park

9. Kiser Lake State Park

22 sites · Rosewood, Ohio
Sail away, sail away, sail away... at Kiser Lake State Park this weekend! Known mostly for its perfect sailing waters, Kaiser Lake attracts many families all summer long. But did you know Kiser Lake State Park is also open in the winter? For those brave enough to handle the cold and snow, there are activities such as cross-country skiing and ice skating to get your muscles into gear! Hit the trails or hit the water. The choice is yours (anytime of year!) at Kiser Lake State Park!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cowan Lake State Park

10. Cowan Lake State Park

75%
(4)
25 sites · Wilmington, Ohio
Picturesque inlets adorned with lotus water lilies will transport you to tranquility at Cowan Lake State Park. Study bloodroot and trillium wildflowers as you listen to the coo of herons and pheasants on the resident lake. With a 1,000-ft long beach for waterfront activities and limited horsepower on boats that traverse the waters, this place is sure to keep its cool. Cast a line for the plentiful bounty of fish or hike one of the six trails to choose from—this is your vacation, after all. Bring some looseleaf tea and a pair of chopsticks, and you're ready to go zen.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hueston Woods State Park

11. Hueston Woods State Park

100%
(2)
24 sites · College Corner, Ohio
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Stonelick State Park

12. Stonelick State Park

24 sites · Newtonsville, Ohio
Nestled along forested highlands, Stonelick State Park's 1,058-acres of serene land is the perfect spot for that librarian conference you always wanted to attend but never planned. Hike the fairly short trails around the park or even rent a bicycle if you're ready to switch gears. Four different species of fish are ready for the taking with an Ohio state fishing license, and boats with electric motors are welcome on the lake once you're ready to explore all corners of the 200-acre body of water. If you're hoping for some quality animal sighting, consider driving over to the nearby Crooked Run Nature Preserve, where glances of blue herons and bald eagles are what classic stories are made of.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Loramie State Park

13. Lake Loramie State Park

21 sites · Fort Loramie, Ohio
No kayak? No problem. Lake Loramie State Park provides rentals for everything from bikes to canoes, and you'll want to take advantage of it to get the most out of your stay. Paddle past patches of water lilies shaded by bald cypress trees, where the beauty here has long been preserved. Hikers will enjoy trekking over to Blackberry Island, where they can catch a glimpse of owls and woodpeckers nesting in their native habitat. A large variety of fish inhabiting the lake and seasonal hunting forays may also appeal to your wild side. Come winter, return for the cross country skiing tournament on the Little Turtle Trace trail, or bring a pair of skates and a sled for some awesome frosty activities. With ice boating available as well, you'll never want to be without a paddle here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Brookville Lake

14. Brookville Lake

100%
(1)
437 sites · Brookville, Indiana
Anglers love the lake nestled in this historic area of Indiana.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

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