Lake Camping Near West Union, Ohio, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

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% (804)

Top-rated campgrounds 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% (804)

Top-rated campgrounds near West Union

1. Fruitdale Farm

99%

(1189)

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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Shawnee State Forest

100%

(1)

58 sites · Friendship, Ohio

Discover Shawnee State Forest's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

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

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

7. 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.

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/

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.

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

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

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

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

14. Kincaid Lake State Park

159 sites · Falmouth, Kentucky

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

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

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

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

Camper favorites near West Union

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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

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.

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/

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.

Public campgrounds near West Union

100%

(1)

Bear Lake Horse Camp

15mi from West Union · 58 sites · in Shawnee State Forest

75%

(4)

Rocky Fork Campground

27mi from West Union · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rocky Fork State Park

100%

(1)

Pike Lake Campground

31mi from West Union · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pike Lake State Park

Paint Creek Campground

34mi from West Union · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Paint Creek State Park

67%

(3)

East Fork Campground

34mi from West Union · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in East Fork State Park

100%

(5)

Carter Caves Campground

36mi from West Union · 129 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carter Caves State Resort Park

Kincaid Lake Campground

40mi from West Union · 159 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kincaid Lake State Park

Stonelick Campground

40mi from West Union · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stonelick State Park

Greenbo Lake Campground

41mi from West Union · 101 sites · Tents, RVs · in Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

100%

(2)

Scioto Trail Campground

44mi from West Union · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Scioto Trail State Park

75%

(4)

Cowan Lake Campground

45mi from West Union · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cowan Lake State Park

Love Twin Knobs campground! And Cave Run Lake has the most amazing sunsets!!

100%

(7)

Twin Knobs Campground

48mi from West Union · 66 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

L

Laura

3 weeks ago

4 nights at Fruitdale Farm

We stayed for 5 days in the sugar shack cabin and it was the coziest experience ever!! Aimee is such a great host and made sure we had every we needed. The wood stove keeps the cabin really warm even in the middle of a snowy night, we accidentally made it too warm one night and went on a night hike in the snow, the most beautiful experience ever. Oh and if you see a little orange cat, that’s Aimee’s cat Tangie, he likes to say hi to the campers!

K

Kirby

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

Peaceful and beautiful! Enjoyed my stay in the Sugar Shack, it was just what the doctor ordered. A place to get away after the holiday craziness and just unwind. Will definitely be looking at trying to go back. 😎

Site 4 is the farthest from the road and is "open-air" so you can see the night's sky

J

Jeremy

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Fruitdale Farm

This is my second time camping at Aimee's place. I came during the off season and there was some work being done on the trail leading to my booked site. She happily gave me the option of site #2 and I liked the different experience it offered. This site #2 was closer to the neighboring fields and roads while still feeling secluded with not so much road noise that it made the experience poor. Since the property is in the country you might hear people riding quads which was the case for a short time that evening. I even got several visits from her cat during my stay to keep me company. I will definitely be back to see the improvements she is adding to the property!

J

James

November 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Country Heir

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

C

Christina

November 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Country Heir

Beautiful Fall view! Meticulously cared for land and spaces!

P

Phylip

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

We didn’t pick the best weekend to go camping, but Aimee’s land made the stay the best that it could have been with the wet weather. The outhouse was convenient and conveniently located to our relocated site, since our van only allowed us to park at site 1. I didn’t realize that the other sites were walking access only, and especially since the land was wet, our van, which was our RV, prevented us from accessing our original requested location. The sauna was a feature that we really enjoyed; and the wood, which was convenient to buy there, after many attempts in the wet weather, finally took fire. Overall, considering the conditions, Aimee’s property made the stay the best.

A

Andrew

November 2025

13 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

Lovely spot. Nice vibe and grounds well maintained.

Josh

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

We absolutely loved this place! The property is beautiful with so maybe wonderful touches, including a Farm Stand with eggs, jams, and other goodies for purchase. The sites are far enough away from each so it feels very private and quiet. We are definitely coming back, can’t wait!!

R

Rachel

October 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Fruitdale Farm

I camped at site 4 for a few days with my 6 yr old daughter, and it was lovely. The property is beautiful and very well maintained. There were free range chickens, which my daughter really enjoyed, as well as the pond and the koi fish. We stayed late in October, so it was very quiet and peaceful. It definitely takes a few hauls to get your gear to site 4, but it is worth it. My daughter has not yet mastered the art of peeing in the woods - so having the 'privy' close by was a great bonus!. Aimee was also very kind, and easy to get in touch with if we needed anything. Hopefully we can return next year!

N

Nick

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Myhio Haven Horse Farm

Very private and clean. Had a great stay and a perfect location. Will definitely be back!

L

Laura

October 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Fruitdale Farm

We loved camping with our kidddos on Aimee’s beautiful farm. Felt like we packed the house (if you have kids..you know) and that def kicked our butt getting to site 5 with the multiple trips down and up steep hills lugging carts and wagons! If you don’t want a serious leg workout, choose sites 2 or 3 :) The camp store was cute and stocked with goodies that we had to try! The dill pickles were uh-mazing. We loved walking the trails and were fascinated by the pawpaw trail. The privy was clean and served its purpose well for the rest of my family lol Site 5 was well laid out, semi private in late Oct with so many fallen leaves, a couple great spots for hammocks, and sits across the creek from site 3 (empty while we were there). There was a loud-ish crew staying close by at another site - but we were all so tired by the end of the day, it didn’t bother us at all :) Already can’t wait to come back! Aimee was very nice and you can tell that she just loves her farm and sharing it with others. Thanks Aimee! 10/10 would recommend!

Brittni

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

The Sugar Shack is the perfect secluded primitive stay! Be prepared to take one of the wagons if you packed a lot of stuff. Aimee did a fantastic job utilizing her land for campers, It’s family friendly and there’s plenty to do. The wood burning stove was the perfect addition to our cold autumn evenings, it makes it so cozy while settling in for the night. When we first got there, Aimee had the stove packed for us already and a bundle of wood. I would recommend a trip here 10/10!!

R

Robert

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

This is an excellent place to camp. Beautiful and extremely well-kept. Highly recommended!

A

Ashley

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Fruitdale Farm

Great place with nice secluded sites & small cabins. We stayed at site 3. It’s closest to drop off, stage, firewood, and farm stand. It’s also the first site before going down the trails to site 4 & 5. Toilet (pivy) area is well kept with a hand washing station outside. Other than neighboring dogs barking at night, we had a great time!

K

Koltron3030

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Fruitdale Farm

Everything about this place is lovely, from the camp spots to the privies. I would absolutely come back here.

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!