Lake Camping Near Hamilton, Ohio, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

In Hamilton, lake camping means you’re never far from the water—just pick from over 1,000 sites where you can catch sunrise mist rolling over the lake, cast a line for bass, or watch herons sweep low in the evening. You’ll find campsites that make early-morning fishing and sunset paddles easy, with average nightly rates landing around $50 and budget spots dipping as low as $22. Top picks like Country Outpost RV Site (45 reviews), The Shack (39 reviews), and On Cedar Pond (37 reviews) put you right on the water’s edge. Expect basics like showers, toilets, and campfires-allowed, plus direct access to fishing, hiking trails, and horseback riding. Pack your gear, plan for easy mornings by the lake, and don’t forget your fishing license.

97% (161)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Hamilton, lake camping means you’re never far from the water—just pick from over 1,000 sites where you can catch sunrise mist rolling over the lake, cast a line for bass, or watch herons sweep low in the evening. You’ll find campsites that make early-morning fishing and sunset paddles easy, with average nightly rates landing around $50 and budget spots dipping as low as $22. Top picks like Country Outpost RV Site (45 reviews), The Shack (39 reviews), and On Cedar Pond (37 reviews) put you right on the water’s edge. Expect basics like showers, toilets, and campfires-allowed, plus direct access to fishing, hiking trails, and horseback riding. Pack your gear, plan for easy mornings by the lake, and don’t forget your fishing license.

97% (161)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Shack

96%

(67)

35mi from Hamilton · 3 sites · Tents · Wilmington, OH

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.

2. Country Heir

97%

(46)

35mi from Hamilton · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Fayetteville, OH

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.

3. Country Outpost RV Site

99%

(59)

44mi from Hamilton · 1 site · RV · Hollansburg, OH

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.

4. Hueston Woods State Park

100%

(2)

24 sites · College Corner, Ohio

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Brookville Lake

100%

(1)

437 sites · Brookville, Indiana

Anglers love the lake nestled in this historic area of Indiana.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. The Love Shack Cabin Getaway

95%

(39)

47mi from Hamilton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Economy, IN

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.

7. Primitive Camping Retreat

100%

(1)

46mi from Hamilton · 3 sites · Tents · Butler, KY

Mawhe Acres Camping Retreat has two primitive camp sites just inside the tree line of an open field, each with a 16' x 16' crushed limestone pad for tents. Each campsite has a picnic table, fire ring and access to a compost toilet (in outhouse). There is no potable water or electric. However, for a nominal fee, we can provide a water hose to the campsite. There's easy access with the ability to drive through the field to the campsite or guests can walk in with their gear from driveway. We're fine with car camping too - we just want to keep things as natural as possible. Mawhe Acres - a 25 acre farm, much of which is raw land and woods in their natural state, undeveloped and not farmed for decades - is an official National Wildlife Federation® (NWF) Certified Wildlife Habitat™ site. NWF recognizes our commitment to sustainably providing the essentials of wildlife habitat - natural sources of food, water, cover and places to raise young. The abundant wildlife around includes deer, squirrels, red foxes, turkeys, chipmunks, groundhogs, raccoons, opossums, woodpeckers, owls, and birds of prey (mostly red-tailed hawks and vultures). We have a small lake with good fishing and acres of woods to explore. There are some footpaths for easier walking. We want to share our beautiful land for our guests to enjoy taking in the sights and sounds of the forest which can help you relax. In fact, it’s possible that time in the great outdoors can boost both your mental and physical health. For example, the science on "forest bathing" (also called "forest therapy") makes a convincing argument that spending time communing with nature can improve stress, anxiety and depression. For those who want a little action, we sit behind a new football facility where you may be able to catch a game or two if you're interested. Find the schedule here: https://www.maxpreps.com/ky/falmouth/pendleton-county-wildcats/football/schedule/

8. 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

Potable water

Toilets

9. 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

Potable water

Toilets

10. East Fork State Park

67%

(3)

25 sites · Williamsburg, Ohio

Load up that car and never look back. Located only 25 miles from Cincinnati, East Fork State Park brandishes the badge as one of Ohio's largest state parks. Find yourself in marshy grasslands, swamp forests, rocky cascades or brambly hills, this location boasts a wide variety of natural beauty at your disposal. Rev up your unlimited horsepower boat to explore more than 2,000 acres of the William H. Harsha Lake, or angle for a hybrid striper or largemouth bass. A 1,200-ft beach means you can sprawl out that towel as much as you like. Navigate the trails by horse, bike, or foot, and we have a feeling you'll get a thrill out of the steep hills and switchbacks along the way.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. 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

Potable water

Toilets

12. Big Bone Lick State Historic Site

100%

(2)

60 sites · Kentucky

Discover the past amid natural beauty at Big Bone Lick State Historic Site.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

13. Versailles State Park

100%

(3)

220 sites · Versailles, Indiana

Discover Versailles State Park's rich history and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

14. Kincaid Lake State Park

159 sites · Falmouth, Kentucky

Discover Kincaid Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Hamilton

100%

(2)

Hueston Woods Campground

17mi from Hamilton · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hueston Woods State Park

100%

(1)

Brookville Lake Campground

22mi from Hamilton · 437 sites · Tents, RVs · in Brookville Lake

93%

(7)

Caesar Creek Campground

29mi from Hamilton · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Caesar Creek State Park

Stonelick Campground

30mi from Hamilton · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stonelick State Park

67%

(3)

East Fork Campground

35mi from Hamilton · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in East Fork State Park

75%

(4)

Cowan Lake Campground

35mi from Hamilton · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cowan Lake State Park

100%

(2)

Big Bone Lick Campground

37mi from Hamilton · 60 sites · Tents, RVs · in Big Bone Lick State Historic Site

100%

(3)

Versailles Campground

42mi from Hamilton · 220 sites · Tents, RVs · in Versailles State Park

Kincaid Lake Campground

49mi from Hamilton · 159 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kincaid Lake State Park

Stories from the community

J

James

2 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Country Heir

Beautiful place. Secluded in the back of a horse farm.

C

Christina

2 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Country Heir

Beautiful Fall view! Meticulously cared for land and spaces!

J

Jamie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at The Shack

We loved the Hideaway!! It was ticked back in the woods!!!!

J

Jamie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at The Shack

We loved staying at The Shack! So cozy, home away from home!

Melanie

October 2025

29 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Country Heir

We loved RV camping on Frankie's land.. She was very nice and we loved her place. Sugar, the farm dog, made our trip even better. My dog and Sugar loved each other and I loved her too... Very quiet and peaceful. Beautiful farm and wonderful ponds. Very close to our home but we felt like we was 'out of town'. Very nice sites... All of them would have been great. We can't wait for warmer weather so we can come back!

Melanie

October 2025

23 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Country Heir

We loved RV camping on Frankie's farm. Everything was perfect and we can't wait to come back! We rented site 10 and 11. Perfect weekend getaway close to our home.

E

Eric

October 2025

31 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Country Heir

Our family loved our time on Frankie's land! Her property is beautiful, quiet, and well taken care of with a ton of fish in the lakes! We will definitely be back!

J

Jamie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Shack

We loved staying in the cozy little shack! Relaxation at its best right here. Quiet, secluded little spot, great for my wife and I!

C

Cathy

October 2025

37 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Country Heir

Beautiful, quiet grounds. There were only two other campers there. Sites are big.

C

Christina

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Shack

We have 2 small boys and brought our dog. We have a great time exploring the woods, fishing and making s'mores on the fire! Being so close to the lake was definitely convenient. The little cabin was great so we didn't need to set up the tent. We will book again.

Alexis

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Shack

The land is beautiful. The cabin sits on the host's property but is secluded. Love the little fire pit space tucked away. The cabin is well build and was perfect for what we needed! I did think there were cushions on the cots based on photo 6 by the host, but there is not. While decently comfortable without them, but they are squeeeeeky cots. Would recommend putting down a mattress and skipping the cots if you're a light sleeper like me. The little terracotta heater was a nice touch. Definitely puts out some heat for as simple as it is! It got down to 40d toward the morning and even with a 25d sleeping bag, it was chilly enough to need the little bit of heat so we were thankful for that! Would definitely stay again. Such a cute little cabin. I'm not a fishing gal, but the lake was super cute.

Blake

October 2025

Tent

1 night at The Shack

When a rainy night was in the forecast during a camping road trip the Hideaway ended up being the perfect spot. I was saved from having soggy equipment and instead got to listen to the rain hitting the metal roof. The large windows are a plus in this cozy little accommodation surrounded by beautiful woods.

D

Drew

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Shack

My partner and I had booked a campsite at the nearby Cowan Lake State Park campgrounds for the weekend as we visited the Ohio Ren Faire. Our first night was MISERABLE - other campers were far too close, the surrounding people were rude, it was awful. So awful we scoured the web the next morning to find somewhere else. Luckily the Hideaway was less than 10min away so we grabbed it - and it saved our WHOLE weekend. It is such a quiet, beautiful, pleasant little spot to crash when in the area - and still 20min from the Ren Faire! I'm unsure if we will ever be back in the area, but if we are best believe we'll be staying here!

Trish

October 2025

28 ft Class C

1 night at Country Outpost RV Site

Beautiful area with site well maintained. We again enjoyed biking and fishing . Sunsets stunning .

N

Nathan

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Shack

The Hideaway cabin & surrounding land was very comfortable, quiet, & relaxing. The directions were easy to understand and the mowed grass walking paths were invaluable. The lake is a short walk down the lane and there is a hiking path entrance at that same location. We had a geeat time. Thank you!

Amy

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Shack

Love the Shack!!! This property is so cute!! The pond is so fun to fish and watch the carp eat. The cabin is adorable and secluded. We love that the lake is so close, it's basically a lake house cabin! We don't often go back to places but this was our second trip here and we'll probably be back!!

j

jody

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Shack

Had a great stay! Cabin is tucked just inside the woods giving you privacy, has lots of windows, perfect for viewing nature, a comfortable bed and a clean outhouse which is located just short walk from cabin. Phyllis is very accommodating and quick to respond. Would highly reccomend the hideaway! We hope to be back and stay longer

S

Sheila

September 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Country Outpost RV Site

Lovely, quiet spot offering a respite from I70 travel. Was perfect.