The best forest camping near Hamilton

·

A former industrial hub now dubbed the “City of Sculpture,” Hamilton is revitalizing its bustling city center with the arts. Over 40 public sculpture installations, bold murals, and the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park are prime examples of the booming arts scene—and tent camping just outside the city allows for a taste of local culture along with an array of outdoor activities. From swimming and fishing in Brookville Lake to archery and fossil hunting in East Fork State Park, there’s something for every Hipcamper. And with plenty of space for pull-through RV parks, yurt glamping, and primitive backpack camping, Hamilton offers a range of accommodations from roughin’ it to laid-back luxury.

98% (835)

Top-rated campgrounds near Hamilton

2. Cabin and Company (RV/Campers only)

100%
(51)
23mi from Hamilton · 1 site · Lodging
Our beautiful 1800’s cabin was moved to the property in the 1970’s by a former neighbor who owned the property at the time. The same neighbor also had a historic train depot moved to the property where she sold antiques out of for several years. It is not sure what the cabin was used for at that time but it certainly added charm to the antique store property. When we acquired the property years later, the cabin was in need of work. It sat for a few years until we decided to restore this lovely cabin back to it’s beautiful charm and character. Jim spent a couple years on the project working in his free time and added the porch using old wood in keeping with the natural look and feel of the cabin as well as some interior areas. Upon completion, we opened the cabin as a gift shop selling unique items including antiques, primitives and decor for a few years. We decided to transition the cabin into a place of retreat for traveling guests and still keep some of the goods we sold in the shop available for purchase. We hope that you find the cabin and property a place of peace and tranquility and will want to return. Whether passing through for a night or a few days stay, you’re always welcome in our neck of the woods. Learn more about this land: Make a stop back in time to our quiet woodland retreat with an updated 1800’s log cabin nestled on the property. At Cabin and Company, you will be parked beside this beautiful cabin and will be allowed access at your leisure for a place to sit and relax. (No overnight sleeping allowed inside) Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea (provided) while watching tv or on our covered porch outside. You may also select a movie or two from our large selection of DVDs or find a book to read among our stash of books. Play cards, engage in one of the other games provided, or just sit in the quiet of it all and rest your mind. There is a golf chipping area as well as basketball. We have WIFI at our residence on the adjacent property and some areas of the camp will pick it up better than others. There is a fire ring on site with an adjustable grate for cooking and plenty of seasoned firewood available.. We will have a few items available for purchase inside the cabin including local honey (when available) apple butter, coffee, hand crafted walking sticks and you won’t want to leave without some of these goodies. This semi secluded property is a gem and we hope you will enjoy this piece of history as much as we do. You may see wildlife such as whitetail deer and of course, there are plenty of birds and squirrels around. You won’t be disappointed in this cozy Midwest retreat and will want to make this one of your places while passing through our beautiful Ohio. Most of all, relax and enjoy.
Pets
Campfires
Wifi
from 
$60
 / night

7. Fiskburg Holler

93%
(7)
40mi from Hamilton · 1 site · Tent
Tucked away in the rolling hills of rural Kenton County, Kentucky, Fiskburg Holler is a 3-acre haven that beckons campers seeking a authentic connection with nature. This idyllic retreat offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal escape for those craving tranquility away from the bustle of everyday life. The property features a serene pond, ideal for quiet contemplation or in the evenings a closeness with nature as the bullfrogs sing their song. An old deer blind, weathered yet sturdy, serves as a rustic vantage point for spotting local wildlife, while a charming footbridge spans a gentle stream, to the secluded lower camp. Reaching the lower camp requires a walk down a hill, with a peaceful spot to pitch tents and gather around a crackling campfire under a canopy of stars. Fiskburg Holler also serves as an excellent base camp for hunters exploring the region, though hunting is not permitted on the property itself. Fortunately, Kenton County and its surrounding areas offer ample public hunting grounds, making it easy for outdoor enthusiasts to pursue their passion nearby. With its blend of natural features and rustic allure, Fiskburg Holler invites campers to unplug and immerse themselves in the simplicity of the outdoors. Whether you’re drawn to the calm of the pond, the adventure of the hill, or the chance to explore nearby hunting opportunities, this hidden gem in Kentucky’s countryside promises an unforgettable retreat for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking a moment of peace in the wild. A video tour of the property https://youtu.be/1LkT3aZ1ljg
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$16
 / night

9. The Love Shack Cabin Getaway

95%
(39)
47mi from Hamilton · 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

14. Camp Yellow Springs

100%
(10)
44mi from Hamilton · 1 site · Tent, RV
This secluded off-grid cabin and camping site sits on the back of a 5-acre family property and borders an 11-acre green space. This private site is approximately 1-acre and has its own driveway. The atmosphere is peaceful and private, and there are no houses or campsites nearby. The cabin has a small solar set up with lights, fans, a composting toilet, and charging capabilities. In addition to the cabin, there are plenty of great tent sites on the property. (Tents are available for rent) The shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities of Yellow Springs are a little over a mile and a half from the campsite. Enjoy all the village has to offer during the day, and retire to your private 1-acre campsite and relax while watching an incredible sunset or a late night bonfire. (We supply the wood!) Great for families, couples, and friend groups all ages. Green friendly. Party friendly! For gatherings larger than 6 adults, contact for pricing and packages.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$81
 / night

15. Sugar Maple Grove Campground

98%
(74)
32mi from Hamilton · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Nice secluded campsites with lots of space and privacy. Fire wood available for $5 for a bundle or you can bring your own, also have excellent cell phone service unlike most state parks in the area. Picnic tables, fire pits and water available and also have a portable idc tote so we can fill your tank at any site. 30 amp and 20 amp outlets at rv sites 1, 2 and 3. Brookville Lake is about 5 minutes away. We have 25 acres with about 3 wooded acres with over 100 sugar maple trees and about 20 acres of flat grass fields plenty of room to hike, just keep in mind we have one horse that is fenced in so please close gates back when you open them. We mow trails for hiking feel free to explore, if you run into a cornfield it's not our property. Att has excellent service at 94mbps download and 11mbps upload, Verizon is good at 36mbps Download and 5mbps upload. We have an outhouse for tent campers And water is available by campsite 1 and we have portable idc tote with city water. We also have 3 indoor/outdoor cats, they like to visit the campground. Direction: Please use SR 44 to country road 450 and go north and take a right at 4 way stop on to Springersville Road and we are about a quarter mile down the road on the left. Little yellow house with 3 eastern white pine tree before the driveway.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night

16. Away at Green Hill

100%
(328)
33mi from Hamilton · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Fall is finally here. It's so Welcomed - summer was brutal - either 95 degrees/95% humidity or raging storms! So cool temps & beautiful leaves are looking good. NOTE: many weekends are already booked through Oct so get yours booked asap Entry point to western Boone County in Northern Kentucky, neighbor to Cincinnati, Rabbit Hash, Indiana the Ohio River, this 27 acre property marks a geographical change from rolling farmland to steep, forested hillsides. Our end-of-the road, ridgetop property means privacy. Our isolated campsites are surrounded by woods full of turkey, deer, owls, and woodpeckers. Onsite there are wide, easy strolling paths, a growing number of single-track hiking trails, open fields, and forest. And if not booked, a historic log home to explore and do some porch sitting. A great place for solo campers, friends, and families, whether newbies or experienced. Drive-in sites make unloading/loading easy peasey. Standard amenities include privacy - we only book two sites at any time, which are far apart from each other and surrounded by woods. Also, an exceptional outhouse, tables, fire rings, lanterns, Welcome kit (paper, fatwood, lighter, candle). And onsite firewood purchased during booking or while onsite. Site 1 - Open Sky accommodates solo or the group, tents to small campers. It comes with extra amenities: hammock, trampoline, (badminton & cornhole by request). It's also closest to the cabin, strolling trails, firewood shed, outhouse. Site 2 - Gobbler's Knob is a more cozy space - a small rise surrounded by forest. A short walk from the outhouse and firewood shed. It can accommodate pop-ups, small pull-behinds, tents, hammocks. Vehicles can park on site or park at site entrance, just 50'. Site 3 - Henry's Holler. By request only. For 4WD overlanders only. Read site description in full before requesting. Boating, kayaking, biking, hiking, or lazing about in tiny riverfront towns minutes away, The curvy, scenic roads lead quickly out of the paved civilization of Union, Kentucky to us and onto the Rabbit Hash General Store, the Ohio River,, historic Dinsmore Homestead and State Nature Preserve, Middle Creek Park, and Big Bone State Park "Home to Modern Vertebrate Paleontology" or the Creation Museum. Do nothing or do something.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$22
 / night

18. Cabin and Tent Camping On The River

100%
(50)
25mi from Hamilton · 2 sites · Tents
Pack your essentials and escape to the Little Miami River Valley's best kept secret. Our off-grid cabin and tent campsite is situated on 14 acres along the National and Scenic Little Miami River. The cabin is included in the site rental, offering the flexibility to bring your own mattress/bedding or have it provided as an add-on. Once here, you'll park near the farmhouse and take a 4 minute hike over the creek, through the meadow, and into the woods. *Driving to the site is an option if you have 4WD and the ground is not too wet. Exceptions for 2WD can be made if the weather forecast and ground conditions permit. As you approach the cabin and campsite, the trail opens up to an acre of green space shaded by large Sycamore, Walnut, and other native trees. Take a dip in the river, enjoy people watching as canoeist pass, or take part with a canoe or kayak rental from a nearby business (within 3 miles). The Little Miami Trail is also less than a mile down the road so bring your bike! The composting outhouse is serviced between each stay, meaning it's emptied, sanitized, and like new for each new guest. *Depending on your group size, the host may need to service/empty the outhouse once daily. There are two established campfire locations and a picnic table is provided. *This is a family residence. The hosts live onsite and although you will not see them from your site, you will likely hear kids/adults playing outside and possibly weekend tasks such as mowing/weed eating/etc. Other "noise pollution" may come from canoeists passing by or the gun/ATV riding club which is a 1/4 mile down the river. That said, overall it remains rather quiet and you should find your stay peaceful : ) Add-ons include: - Mattress/mattress protector/fitted sheet ($30) - Mattress with full bedding (+flat sheet/comforter/pillows) ($50) - Small table top propane grill ($15) - Tent rental/setup ($30) - Firewood ($10/bundle) (roughly 10 pieces/bundle) - Life jacket ($5/each) - River tube and 1 life jacket ($15) - Hybrid stand-up paddle board/kayak and 1 life jacket ($20) - Canoe with paddles and 2 life jackets ($20) - Mountain bike ($20)
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$70
 / night

20. Country Outpost RV Site

99%
(60)
44mi from Hamilton · 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

A former industrial hub now dubbed the “City of Sculpture,” Hamilton is revitalizing its bustling city center with the arts. Over 40 public sculpture installations, bold murals, and the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park are prime examples of the booming arts scene—and tent camping just outside the city allows for a taste of local culture along with an array of outdoor activities. From swimming and fishing in Brookville Lake to archery and fossil hunting in East Fork State Park, there’s something for every Hipcamper. And with plenty of space for pull-through RV parks, yurt glamping, and primitive backpack camping, Hamilton offers a range of accommodations from roughin’ it to laid-back luxury.

98% (835)

Top-rated campgrounds near Hamilton

2. Cabin and Company (RV/Campers only)

100%
(51)
23mi from Hamilton · 1 site · Lodging
Our beautiful 1800’s cabin was moved to the property in the 1970’s by a former neighbor who owned the property at the time. The same neighbor also had a historic train depot moved to the property where she sold antiques out of for several years. It is not sure what the cabin was used for at that time but it certainly added charm to the antique store property. When we acquired the property years later, the cabin was in need of work. It sat for a few years until we decided to restore this lovely cabin back to it’s beautiful charm and character. Jim spent a couple years on the project working in his free time and added the porch using old wood in keeping with the natural look and feel of the cabin as well as some interior areas. Upon completion, we opened the cabin as a gift shop selling unique items including antiques, primitives and decor for a few years. We decided to transition the cabin into a place of retreat for traveling guests and still keep some of the goods we sold in the shop available for purchase. We hope that you find the cabin and property a place of peace and tranquility and will want to return. Whether passing through for a night or a few days stay, you’re always welcome in our neck of the woods. Learn more about this land: Make a stop back in time to our quiet woodland retreat with an updated 1800’s log cabin nestled on the property. At Cabin and Company, you will be parked beside this beautiful cabin and will be allowed access at your leisure for a place to sit and relax. (No overnight sleeping allowed inside) Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea (provided) while watching tv or on our covered porch outside. You may also select a movie or two from our large selection of DVDs or find a book to read among our stash of books. Play cards, engage in one of the other games provided, or just sit in the quiet of it all and rest your mind. There is a golf chipping area as well as basketball. We have WIFI at our residence on the adjacent property and some areas of the camp will pick it up better than others. There is a fire ring on site with an adjustable grate for cooking and plenty of seasoned firewood available.. We will have a few items available for purchase inside the cabin including local honey (when available) apple butter, coffee, hand crafted walking sticks and you won’t want to leave without some of these goodies. This semi secluded property is a gem and we hope you will enjoy this piece of history as much as we do. You may see wildlife such as whitetail deer and of course, there are plenty of birds and squirrels around. You won’t be disappointed in this cozy Midwest retreat and will want to make this one of your places while passing through our beautiful Ohio. Most of all, relax and enjoy.
Pets
Campfires
Wifi
from 
$60
 / night

7. Fiskburg Holler

93%
(7)
40mi from Hamilton · 1 site · Tent
Tucked away in the rolling hills of rural Kenton County, Kentucky, Fiskburg Holler is a 3-acre haven that beckons campers seeking a authentic connection with nature. This idyllic retreat offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal escape for those craving tranquility away from the bustle of everyday life. The property features a serene pond, ideal for quiet contemplation or in the evenings a closeness with nature as the bullfrogs sing their song. An old deer blind, weathered yet sturdy, serves as a rustic vantage point for spotting local wildlife, while a charming footbridge spans a gentle stream, to the secluded lower camp. Reaching the lower camp requires a walk down a hill, with a peaceful spot to pitch tents and gather around a crackling campfire under a canopy of stars. Fiskburg Holler also serves as an excellent base camp for hunters exploring the region, though hunting is not permitted on the property itself. Fortunately, Kenton County and its surrounding areas offer ample public hunting grounds, making it easy for outdoor enthusiasts to pursue their passion nearby. With its blend of natural features and rustic allure, Fiskburg Holler invites campers to unplug and immerse themselves in the simplicity of the outdoors. Whether you’re drawn to the calm of the pond, the adventure of the hill, or the chance to explore nearby hunting opportunities, this hidden gem in Kentucky’s countryside promises an unforgettable retreat for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking a moment of peace in the wild. A video tour of the property https://youtu.be/1LkT3aZ1ljg
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$16
 / night

9. The Love Shack Cabin Getaway

95%
(39)
47mi from Hamilton · 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

14. Camp Yellow Springs

100%
(10)
44mi from Hamilton · 1 site · Tent, RV
This secluded off-grid cabin and camping site sits on the back of a 5-acre family property and borders an 11-acre green space. This private site is approximately 1-acre and has its own driveway. The atmosphere is peaceful and private, and there are no houses or campsites nearby. The cabin has a small solar set up with lights, fans, a composting toilet, and charging capabilities. In addition to the cabin, there are plenty of great tent sites on the property. (Tents are available for rent) The shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities of Yellow Springs are a little over a mile and a half from the campsite. Enjoy all the village has to offer during the day, and retire to your private 1-acre campsite and relax while watching an incredible sunset or a late night bonfire. (We supply the wood!) Great for families, couples, and friend groups all ages. Green friendly. Party friendly! For gatherings larger than 6 adults, contact for pricing and packages.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$81
 / night

15. Sugar Maple Grove Campground

98%
(74)
32mi from Hamilton · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Nice secluded campsites with lots of space and privacy. Fire wood available for $5 for a bundle or you can bring your own, also have excellent cell phone service unlike most state parks in the area. Picnic tables, fire pits and water available and also have a portable idc tote so we can fill your tank at any site. 30 amp and 20 amp outlets at rv sites 1, 2 and 3. Brookville Lake is about 5 minutes away. We have 25 acres with about 3 wooded acres with over 100 sugar maple trees and about 20 acres of flat grass fields plenty of room to hike, just keep in mind we have one horse that is fenced in so please close gates back when you open them. We mow trails for hiking feel free to explore, if you run into a cornfield it's not our property. Att has excellent service at 94mbps download and 11mbps upload, Verizon is good at 36mbps Download and 5mbps upload. We have an outhouse for tent campers And water is available by campsite 1 and we have portable idc tote with city water. We also have 3 indoor/outdoor cats, they like to visit the campground. Direction: Please use SR 44 to country road 450 and go north and take a right at 4 way stop on to Springersville Road and we are about a quarter mile down the road on the left. Little yellow house with 3 eastern white pine tree before the driveway.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night

16. Away at Green Hill

100%
(328)
33mi from Hamilton · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Fall is finally here. It's so Welcomed - summer was brutal - either 95 degrees/95% humidity or raging storms! So cool temps & beautiful leaves are looking good. NOTE: many weekends are already booked through Oct so get yours booked asap Entry point to western Boone County in Northern Kentucky, neighbor to Cincinnati, Rabbit Hash, Indiana the Ohio River, this 27 acre property marks a geographical change from rolling farmland to steep, forested hillsides. Our end-of-the road, ridgetop property means privacy. Our isolated campsites are surrounded by woods full of turkey, deer, owls, and woodpeckers. Onsite there are wide, easy strolling paths, a growing number of single-track hiking trails, open fields, and forest. And if not booked, a historic log home to explore and do some porch sitting. A great place for solo campers, friends, and families, whether newbies or experienced. Drive-in sites make unloading/loading easy peasey. Standard amenities include privacy - we only book two sites at any time, which are far apart from each other and surrounded by woods. Also, an exceptional outhouse, tables, fire rings, lanterns, Welcome kit (paper, fatwood, lighter, candle). And onsite firewood purchased during booking or while onsite. Site 1 - Open Sky accommodates solo or the group, tents to small campers. It comes with extra amenities: hammock, trampoline, (badminton & cornhole by request). It's also closest to the cabin, strolling trails, firewood shed, outhouse. Site 2 - Gobbler's Knob is a more cozy space - a small rise surrounded by forest. A short walk from the outhouse and firewood shed. It can accommodate pop-ups, small pull-behinds, tents, hammocks. Vehicles can park on site or park at site entrance, just 50'. Site 3 - Henry's Holler. By request only. For 4WD overlanders only. Read site description in full before requesting. Boating, kayaking, biking, hiking, or lazing about in tiny riverfront towns minutes away, The curvy, scenic roads lead quickly out of the paved civilization of Union, Kentucky to us and onto the Rabbit Hash General Store, the Ohio River,, historic Dinsmore Homestead and State Nature Preserve, Middle Creek Park, and Big Bone State Park "Home to Modern Vertebrate Paleontology" or the Creation Museum. Do nothing or do something.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$22
 / night

18. Cabin and Tent Camping On The River

100%
(50)
25mi from Hamilton · 2 sites · Tents
Pack your essentials and escape to the Little Miami River Valley's best kept secret. Our off-grid cabin and tent campsite is situated on 14 acres along the National and Scenic Little Miami River. The cabin is included in the site rental, offering the flexibility to bring your own mattress/bedding or have it provided as an add-on. Once here, you'll park near the farmhouse and take a 4 minute hike over the creek, through the meadow, and into the woods. *Driving to the site is an option if you have 4WD and the ground is not too wet. Exceptions for 2WD can be made if the weather forecast and ground conditions permit. As you approach the cabin and campsite, the trail opens up to an acre of green space shaded by large Sycamore, Walnut, and other native trees. Take a dip in the river, enjoy people watching as canoeist pass, or take part with a canoe or kayak rental from a nearby business (within 3 miles). The Little Miami Trail is also less than a mile down the road so bring your bike! The composting outhouse is serviced between each stay, meaning it's emptied, sanitized, and like new for each new guest. *Depending on your group size, the host may need to service/empty the outhouse once daily. There are two established campfire locations and a picnic table is provided. *This is a family residence. The hosts live onsite and although you will not see them from your site, you will likely hear kids/adults playing outside and possibly weekend tasks such as mowing/weed eating/etc. Other "noise pollution" may come from canoeists passing by or the gun/ATV riding club which is a 1/4 mile down the river. That said, overall it remains rather quiet and you should find your stay peaceful : ) Add-ons include: - Mattress/mattress protector/fitted sheet ($30) - Mattress with full bedding (+flat sheet/comforter/pillows) ($50) - Small table top propane grill ($15) - Tent rental/setup ($30) - Firewood ($10/bundle) (roughly 10 pieces/bundle) - Life jacket ($5/each) - River tube and 1 life jacket ($15) - Hybrid stand-up paddle board/kayak and 1 life jacket ($20) - Canoe with paddles and 2 life jackets ($20) - Mountain bike ($20)
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$70
 / night

20. Country Outpost RV Site

99%
(60)
44mi from Hamilton · 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

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
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The best forest camping near Hamilton guide

Where to go

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park

Only a 5-minute drive from the city center, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park delivers 300 acres of awe-inspiring art to explore. Stop by a traditional 1820s pioneer house, the iconic outdoor sculpture collection, and a museum gallery showcasing both ancient and contemporary works. Campers can walk or drive (personal vehicle or an art cart golf cart) the 1.75-mile loop through the highly accessible park. Although there’s no camping within, nearby rustic cabins, tent campsites, and RV sites with parking pads can be found.

Brookville Lake

Home to Mounds State Recreation Area, Brookville Lake is just across the border in Indiana, a 40-minute drive from Hamilton. It’s recognized worldwide for producing 450 million-year-old Ordovician fossils set over 11,000 acres with 25 miles of hiking trails and 10 preserved earthworks created by prehistoric First Nations. Admission is free, though camping reservations are required. Nearby tent campsites and full-service RV parks with dump stations and electrical hookups can also be found, while two beaches, paddleboard rentals, a shooting range, archery ranges, and fishing keep campers busy.

East Fork State Park

Book a pet-friendly cabin and bring the dog to East Fork State Park (just keep them on-leash and off the beach). It’s an hour drive from Hamilton, but state park camping is available for the closest access to its amenities. Take a speed boat to Harsha Lake, where unlimited horsepower is allowed, and spend the day swimming or fishing before heading back to the campground. Enjoy hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, or backcountry camping (a permit must be purchased from the Administration Office). Reserve campsites online to snag the best spot.

When to go

The heat peaks in Hamilton in July and August, making water temperatures desirable for swimming. Things cool off toward the end of September, so accommodation pricing is slightly cheaper as the peak season ends. Winter temperatures hit below freezing in January and February, but snow is common starting in November. The driest months are August, November, and February, with the rainiest months in spring (March through May), so if traveling during this time, break out the umbrellas and raincoats.