The Dyrt has released its 2026 Best Places to Camp Near Water list, recognizing 10 campgrounds located on lakes, ponds, reservoirs and rivers that received high ratings from members of its camping community.
The rankings, presented in partnership with Women Who Explore, highlight campgrounds across the United States where access to freshwater features is a major part of the camping experience.
According to The Dyrt, oceans and coastal campgrounds were excluded from consideration, with the list focusing exclusively on properties situated near inland bodies of water.
The selected campgrounds were chosen based on ratings and reviews from The Dyrt community. The recognition is intended to identify destinations where lakes and rivers contribute significantly to the appeal of the camping experience.
“Lakes and rivers are a main co-star for a great camping experience,” Kevin Long, CEO of The Dyrt, said in a statement.
“It’s a perfect setting for that first cup of coffee in the morning and dinner at night. It’s how you cool off when you get back to the campsite after a long hike. It’s where boaters and kayakers and fishermen do their thing and where kids splash and laugh and have the time of their lives. And who doesn’t love falling asleep to the soothing sounds of a flowing river?” Long added.
According to The Dyrt, freshwater locations provide opportunities for a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, boating and kayaking. The company noted that water can serve as both the primary attraction for visitors and a setting for relaxation at campgrounds.
The 2026 Best Places to Camp Near Water list includes Jenny Lake Campground in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming; Mistletoe State Park Campground in Georgia; Temperance River State Park Campground in Minnesota; and Bowman Lake Campground in Glacier National Park, Montana.
Other campgrounds recognized in the rankings include Lake Ouachita State Park Campground in Arkansas, Sylvan Lake Campground in Custer State Park, South Dakota, Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground in Arizona and Prospector Campground in Colorado.
The remaining destinations on the list are Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Campground in California and Ricketts Glen State Park Campground in Pennsylvania.
The Dyrt said all of the lakes, ponds and rivers associated with the selected campgrounds play a significant role in attracting visitors and enhancing the outdoor experience.
The company also advised campers to review local rules and regulations before visiting, noting that permitted activities may vary by campground and location.