Best Lakeside & Riverside Camping in America
Find waterfront spots with a campground nearby — wake up steps from the water for swimming, fishing, and paddling.
All Lakeside & Riverside Camping
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4.8(2,468)Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park
This scenic waterfront park offers numerous recreation options, including camping & birdwatching.
4.8(970)Langdon Beach
Swimming beach with seasonal lifeguards, plus a picnic pavilion, bathhouse & outdoor showers.
4.8(2,636)Wall Springs Park
Natural area with bayou views, walking paths, an observation tower & a playground.
4.8(8,589)Pensacola Beach
This public beach with white sand, a pier & lifeguards is a popular swimming & sunbathing spot.
4.8(511)Norris Lake
Scenic reservoir with 809 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking & picnic areas.
4.8(6,159)Coquina Beach
Long public swimming beach featuring picnic tables, cabanas & play areas, plus a casual cafe.
4.8(7,798)Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Park featuring a 6-mi. river with summer tubing through wetlands, wildlife sightings & snorkeling.
4.8(546)Lake Chelan
Nature-lovers' resort destination in the mountains with water sports, hotels, hiking & local wine.
4.8(1,222)The Naperville Riverwalk
The "Crown Jewel" of Naperville, this 1.75-mile brick pathway follows the West Branch of the DuPage River past fountains, covered bridges, and outdoor sculpture. Built by community volunteers in 1981 for the city's 150th anniversary, highlights include Paddleboat Quarry, the Dandelion Fountain, a 72-bell Millennium Carillon in Moser Tower, and Centennial Beach — a historic swimming area with sand volleyball. Dogs welcome on leash; bikes and scooters are not permitted on the Riverwalk path.
4.8(1,505)Vermilion River Reservation: Mill Hollow
Vast park with tree-shaded trails, water access, a settler's cabin with exhibits & a concert stage.
4.8(74)Sharp Park Beach
Beyond its nature trails & coastal views, this scenic beach features a popular fishing pier.
4.8(3,100)Fletcher Cove Beach Park
Picturesque park with a viewing deck, grassy area & playground, plus tables & a basketball court.
4.8(631)Summersville Lake
Scenic lake created by a dam, with 60 mi. of shoreline offering boating, fishing & camping.
Tips for Visiting Lakeside & Riverside Camping
Reserve campsites early — waterfront spots book out fastest in summer
Check whether the campground is first-come or reservation-only
Pack a bear canister where required and store food safely
Confirm potable water and fire-ban status before you arrive