The best lakeside camping near Hamilton

·

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) 27 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hamilton

The Shack

1. The Shack

96%
(67)
35mi from Hamilton · 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 Heir

2. Country Heir

97%
(46)
35mi from Hamilton · 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

3. 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
Hueston Woods State Park

4. Hueston Woods State Park

100%
(2)
24 sites · College Corner, Ohio
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Brookville Lake

5. Brookville Lake

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

6. 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
Primitive Camping Retreat

7. Primitive Camping Retreat

100%
(1)
46mi from Hamilton · 3 sites · Tents
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/
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$26
 / night
Caesar Creek State Park

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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Stonelick State Park

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
Toilets
Campfires
East Fork State Park

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
Toilets
Campfires
Cowan Lake State Park

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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site

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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Versailles State Park

13. Versailles State Park

100%
(3)
220 sites · Versailles, Indiana
Discover Versailles State Park's rich history and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Kincaid Lake State Park

14. Kincaid Lake State Park

159 sites · Falmouth, Kentucky
Discover Kincaid Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

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) 27 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hamilton

The Shack

1. The Shack

96%
(67)
35mi from Hamilton · 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 Heir

2. Country Heir

97%
(46)
35mi from Hamilton · 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

3. 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
Hueston Woods State Park

4. Hueston Woods State Park

100%
(2)
24 sites · College Corner, Ohio
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Brookville Lake

5. Brookville Lake

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

6. 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
Primitive Camping Retreat

7. Primitive Camping Retreat

100%
(1)
46mi from Hamilton · 3 sites · Tents
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/
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$26
 / night
Caesar Creek State Park

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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Stonelick State Park

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
Toilets
Campfires
East Fork State Park

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
Toilets
Campfires
Cowan Lake State Park

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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site

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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Versailles State Park

13. Versailles State Park

100%
(3)
220 sites · Versailles, Indiana
Discover Versailles State Park's rich history and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Kincaid Lake State Park

14. Kincaid Lake State Park

159 sites · Falmouth, Kentucky
Discover Kincaid Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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