The best lakeside camping near West Union

·

In West Union, lake camping means waking up to mist rising off the water and casting a line before breakfast. With over 950 lake-focused campsites around here, you’ll find spots where the only morning noise is birdsong and the splash of fish. The average site runs about $50 a night, but you can snag a place for as low as $20 if you’re quick. Most sites offer toilets and showers, and campfires are allowed—nothing beats ending the day beside a crackling fire after swimming or spotting deer at dusk. For tried-and-true favorites, check out Fruitdale Farm (571 reviews), Myhio Haven Horse Farm (59 reviews), or The Shack (39 reviews). Bring your fishing gear, binoculars, and swimming kit—you’ll want them all.

98% (806) 42 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near West Union

Fruitdale Farm

1. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(1191)
37mi from West Union · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Come stay at our little sustainable farmstead amid the beautiful rolling hills of southern Ohio! Our peaceful 20 acres has a good mix of woods, wild meadows and maintained cleared areas as well as a small pond, all of which can be explored via our nature trail. Enjoy the sounds of nature and an incredible night sky. FIREWOOD and seasonal farm goods are available for purchase at a self-serve stand (several payment options available). There is also a wonderful sauna on the property that can be reserved (go to sauna to reserve a time). Great hiking, kayaking, biking, birding, fishing, swimming, and disc-golfing opportunities just a few miles away at Paint Creek State Park and the Highland Nature Sanctuary. Amish country is also just 15 minutes away with a great bakery, markets and greenhouses. This area is home to an impressive network of ancient earthworks including the world famous Serpent Mound. Our accommodations range from primitive tent-camping to "glamping" in one of our tiny off-grid cabins. The sites are spaced out for privacy and each site offers a private picnic table and fire pit. There are two shared privies/outhouses which have basic composting toilets (not flushing). A grassy parking area is provided near the road, however, ALL SITES ARE WALK-IN (with the exception of site #1). ***Please take note that this is private property and the host lives on site. If you are looking for a place to be loud and party into the night, this is not the place for you. If you are looking to spend some quality time in nature, welcome. There are rules.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Myhio Haven Horse Farm

2. Myhio Haven Horse Farm

99%
(86)
23mi from West Union · 4 sites · Tents
Established in 1983 on a 60-acre plot of land right in the Shawnee State Forest. The property is beautiful with flat land, fields, and at the back are the foot hills of the Appalachian Mountains. We put a horse farm on the land in 2000. The horses here are my family and I want to expand and offer more opportunities on the land. That's when I came across Hipcamp! I'm excited to share a piece of my heaven that I'm fortunate enough to call home.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
The Shack

3. The Shack

96%
(67)
46mi from West Union · 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
Shawnee State Forest

4. Shawnee State Forest

100%
(1)
58 sites · Friendship, Ohio
Discover Shawnee State Forest's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Rocky Fork State Park

5. Rocky Fork State Park

75%
(4)
24 sites · Rocky Fork Point, Ohio
Pack your camera and some extra batteries, because gorges, caves, and weaving streams make Rocky Fork State Park truly a sight to behold. Bring that trusty fishing rod too, where all types of fish from bluegill to white bass will be sure to make your mouth water come meal time. Two large beaches and 800 ft of lakeside access makes this the place to perfect your sand-castle building skills. Volleyball and basketball courts mean you can hone in on your game. The trails are short here, but since one is a loop, consider it your next track field as well.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
GLOC-CampInn

6. GLOC-CampInn

50mi from West Union · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
Over 6 acres of land available for camping activities and sports activities. Bring your creativity and your group of family and friends to really enjoy the outdoor life with natural woods, birds and more… There is a pond onsite. You can reserve these additional items for extra cost - Hot tub, shower, toilet, kitchen and double sink, fridge freezer, washer, dryer
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
Country Heir

7. Country Heir

97%
(46)
36mi from West Union · 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
Primitive Camping Retreat

8. Primitive Camping Retreat

100%
(1)
44mi from West Union · 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
The Pilot House

9. The Pilot House

28mi from West Union · 1 site · Lodging
Just off Rocky Fork Lake with access to the water there are many hiking trails and 10s of thousands of public acres to enjoy. I have a cabin and/or RV electric 30/50 amp; water if the cabin is not rented. The state dump station is $8-10 and right down the road 3 miles. I'll only do the RV alone a week out if the days are open.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$119
 / night
Pike Lake State Park

10. Pike Lake State Park

100%
(1)
23 sites · Bainbridge, Ohio
Located in the picturesque wooded hills of Ohio, the 587-acre lake along Pike Lake State Park offers ample opportunity for waterfront and dry land activities alike. Slap on a pair of goggles and discover the lake, or laze by the beach and soak up some sun. An adjacent 13-acre lake features fishing of five different breeds, and non-powered boats (available for rental as well) will be sure to keep those relaxing vibes afloat. If you're game to frolf it up, an 18-hole disc golfing course is the ideal spot to perfect that flick of the wrist. With several trails to hike, basketball courts, and even nature centers offering programs during summer, we'll be surprised if you don't want to come back more than once.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Paint Creek State Park

11. Paint Creek State Park

25 sites · Greenfield, Ohio
It won't be hard to find your own secret spot at Paint Creek State Park, where more than 5,500 acres provide ample fodder for your outdoor cravings. Rev up your boat with unlimited horsepower to cruise around the lake, or fish for crappie in more than 1,000 acres of unadulterated lakeside beauty. Frolfing, swimming, and hiking trails will keep you active until sundown, and a mini-golf course is just an added bonus. Bird lovers can also keep an eye out for eagles or blue herons, where they have claimed the picturesque scenery as nesting grounds. Looking for a detour? Learn about rare plants and see some dolomite caves at Miller Nature Sanctuary, located east of State Route 50.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
East Fork State Park

12. 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
Carter Caves State Resort Park

13. Carter Caves State Resort Park

100%
(5)
129 sites · Olive Hill, Kentucky
Forest hikes, subterranean wonders, and lakeside fun await at Carter Caves.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
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
Stonelick State Park

15. 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
Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

16. Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

101 sites · Greenup, Kentucky
Discover Greenbo Lake State Resort Park's natural splendor and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Scioto Trail State Park

17. Scioto Trail State Park

100%
(2)
25 sites · Waverly, Ohio
Small, cute, and just what the doctor ordered. Scioto Trail State Park features a modest 218 acres of woodland beauty, and is the perfect spot for you to get away from it all. Canoe on the calm waters and listen to the subtle chirp of resident wildlife, or find a quiet spot to catch some bass or trout. Wade in the waters near a small, untended beach, or bike and hike one of three trails that may give your heart rate a run for its money. Take advantage of the sports courts or re-live the bygone days at the playground. If you're looking for a glacial get away, cross-country skiing and ice skating are just a sampling of activities to revel in come winter time. Go on, take a deep breath. At Scioto Trail State Park, you're allowed to let loose and relax.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

In West Union, lake camping means waking up to mist rising off the water and casting a line before breakfast. With over 950 lake-focused campsites around here, you’ll find spots where the only morning noise is birdsong and the splash of fish. The average site runs about $50 a night, but you can snag a place for as low as $20 if you’re quick. Most sites offer toilets and showers, and campfires are allowed—nothing beats ending the day beside a crackling fire after swimming or spotting deer at dusk. For tried-and-true favorites, check out Fruitdale Farm (571 reviews), Myhio Haven Horse Farm (59 reviews), or The Shack (39 reviews). Bring your fishing gear, binoculars, and swimming kit—you’ll want them all.

98% (806) 42 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near West Union

Fruitdale Farm

1. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(1191)
37mi from West Union · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Come stay at our little sustainable farmstead amid the beautiful rolling hills of southern Ohio! Our peaceful 20 acres has a good mix of woods, wild meadows and maintained cleared areas as well as a small pond, all of which can be explored via our nature trail. Enjoy the sounds of nature and an incredible night sky. FIREWOOD and seasonal farm goods are available for purchase at a self-serve stand (several payment options available). There is also a wonderful sauna on the property that can be reserved (go to sauna to reserve a time). Great hiking, kayaking, biking, birding, fishing, swimming, and disc-golfing opportunities just a few miles away at Paint Creek State Park and the Highland Nature Sanctuary. Amish country is also just 15 minutes away with a great bakery, markets and greenhouses. This area is home to an impressive network of ancient earthworks including the world famous Serpent Mound. Our accommodations range from primitive tent-camping to "glamping" in one of our tiny off-grid cabins. The sites are spaced out for privacy and each site offers a private picnic table and fire pit. There are two shared privies/outhouses which have basic composting toilets (not flushing). A grassy parking area is provided near the road, however, ALL SITES ARE WALK-IN (with the exception of site #1). ***Please take note that this is private property and the host lives on site. If you are looking for a place to be loud and party into the night, this is not the place for you. If you are looking to spend some quality time in nature, welcome. There are rules.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Myhio Haven Horse Farm

2. Myhio Haven Horse Farm

99%
(86)
23mi from West Union · 4 sites · Tents
Established in 1983 on a 60-acre plot of land right in the Shawnee State Forest. The property is beautiful with flat land, fields, and at the back are the foot hills of the Appalachian Mountains. We put a horse farm on the land in 2000. The horses here are my family and I want to expand and offer more opportunities on the land. That's when I came across Hipcamp! I'm excited to share a piece of my heaven that I'm fortunate enough to call home.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
The Shack

3. The Shack

96%
(67)
46mi from West Union · 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
Shawnee State Forest

4. Shawnee State Forest

100%
(1)
58 sites · Friendship, Ohio
Discover Shawnee State Forest's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Rocky Fork State Park

5. Rocky Fork State Park

75%
(4)
24 sites · Rocky Fork Point, Ohio
Pack your camera and some extra batteries, because gorges, caves, and weaving streams make Rocky Fork State Park truly a sight to behold. Bring that trusty fishing rod too, where all types of fish from bluegill to white bass will be sure to make your mouth water come meal time. Two large beaches and 800 ft of lakeside access makes this the place to perfect your sand-castle building skills. Volleyball and basketball courts mean you can hone in on your game. The trails are short here, but since one is a loop, consider it your next track field as well.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
GLOC-CampInn

6. GLOC-CampInn

50mi from West Union · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
Over 6 acres of land available for camping activities and sports activities. Bring your creativity and your group of family and friends to really enjoy the outdoor life with natural woods, birds and more… There is a pond onsite. You can reserve these additional items for extra cost - Hot tub, shower, toilet, kitchen and double sink, fridge freezer, washer, dryer
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
Country Heir

7. Country Heir

97%
(46)
36mi from West Union · 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
Primitive Camping Retreat

8. Primitive Camping Retreat

100%
(1)
44mi from West Union · 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
The Pilot House

9. The Pilot House

28mi from West Union · 1 site · Lodging
Just off Rocky Fork Lake with access to the water there are many hiking trails and 10s of thousands of public acres to enjoy. I have a cabin and/or RV electric 30/50 amp; water if the cabin is not rented. The state dump station is $8-10 and right down the road 3 miles. I'll only do the RV alone a week out if the days are open.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$119
 / night
Pike Lake State Park

10. Pike Lake State Park

100%
(1)
23 sites · Bainbridge, Ohio
Located in the picturesque wooded hills of Ohio, the 587-acre lake along Pike Lake State Park offers ample opportunity for waterfront and dry land activities alike. Slap on a pair of goggles and discover the lake, or laze by the beach and soak up some sun. An adjacent 13-acre lake features fishing of five different breeds, and non-powered boats (available for rental as well) will be sure to keep those relaxing vibes afloat. If you're game to frolf it up, an 18-hole disc golfing course is the ideal spot to perfect that flick of the wrist. With several trails to hike, basketball courts, and even nature centers offering programs during summer, we'll be surprised if you don't want to come back more than once.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Paint Creek State Park

11. Paint Creek State Park

25 sites · Greenfield, Ohio
It won't be hard to find your own secret spot at Paint Creek State Park, where more than 5,500 acres provide ample fodder for your outdoor cravings. Rev up your boat with unlimited horsepower to cruise around the lake, or fish for crappie in more than 1,000 acres of unadulterated lakeside beauty. Frolfing, swimming, and hiking trails will keep you active until sundown, and a mini-golf course is just an added bonus. Bird lovers can also keep an eye out for eagles or blue herons, where they have claimed the picturesque scenery as nesting grounds. Looking for a detour? Learn about rare plants and see some dolomite caves at Miller Nature Sanctuary, located east of State Route 50.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
East Fork State Park

12. 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
Carter Caves State Resort Park

13. Carter Caves State Resort Park

100%
(5)
129 sites · Olive Hill, Kentucky
Forest hikes, subterranean wonders, and lakeside fun await at Carter Caves.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
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
Stonelick State Park

15. 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
Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

16. Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

101 sites · Greenup, Kentucky
Discover Greenbo Lake State Resort Park's natural splendor and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Scioto Trail State Park

17. Scioto Trail State Park

100%
(2)
25 sites · Waverly, Ohio
Small, cute, and just what the doctor ordered. Scioto Trail State Park features a modest 218 acres of woodland beauty, and is the perfect spot for you to get away from it all. Canoe on the calm waters and listen to the subtle chirp of resident wildlife, or find a quiet spot to catch some bass or trout. Wade in the waters near a small, untended beach, or bike and hike one of three trails that may give your heart rate a run for its money. Take advantage of the sports courts or re-live the bygone days at the playground. If you're looking for a glacial get away, cross-country skiing and ice skating are just a sampling of activities to revel in come winter time. Go on, take a deep breath. At Scioto Trail State Park, you're allowed to let loose and relax.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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