The Dyrt, the app to get the best campsites, built by the largest RVing and camping community in the U.S., has announced the 2026 Best Places to Camp Near Water Presented by Women Who Explore, a community dedicated to empowering women through outdoor adventure, connection and exploration.
Camping can be great regardless of location and terrain, but for some people there’s nothing better than setting up a tent or parking a rig right next to a crystal-clear lake or winding river. Leisure activities that a body of water makes possible are nearly endless — fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, skipping rocks and enjoying the view are just a few. Water is the perfect camping companion as it can be the setting for the day’s main activities or just provide the backdrop for rest and relaxation.
For the purposes of Best Places to Camp Near Water we excluded oceans, so don’t be surprised to not find your favorite coastal beach campground on this list. These locations are on lakes, ponds, reservoirs and rivers, all of which play a major role in the appeal of these properties.
Best Places to Camp Near Water recognizes the top campgrounds in the country rated highly by The Dyrt Community that are located on a lake or pond or alongside a river. The bodies of water on this list all contribute greatly to the appeal and allure of these campgrounds.
Jenny Lake Campground in Grand Teton National Park is one of the most beautiful, picturesque places in the world. It was ranked No. 1 in The Dyrt’s very first Best Places to Camp in the U.S. list back in 2021. And Minnesota may be the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but the Temperance River is the reason why The North Star State is in the Top 3.
Read more about all the best Places to Camp Near Water at The Dyrt’s website.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
