Reduced graphene oxide@nickel oxide (NiO) composites were prepared through a simple hydrothermal reaction combined with a heat treatment. The reduced graphene oxide@NiO composites are composed of NiO nanosheets uniformly attaching on both sides of cross-linked reduced graphene oxide. Some favorable electrochemical performances in specific capacity, cycling performance, and rate capability are achieved using the porous nanocomposites as an anode for lithium-ion batteries. And the reversible specific capacity can reach up to1023 mAh g(-1 )at 400 mA g(-1) after 200 cycles. A full cell consists of a commercial LiCoO2 cathode and the reduced graphene oxide NiO@-3 nanocomposites anode, is able to hold a high capacity of 772 mAh g(-1) at 400 mA g(-1) after 200 cycles. The three-dimensional reduced graphene oxide plays a key role in enhancing the electrical conductivity of the electrode materials; and it effectively prevents the NiO nanoparticles from dropping off the electrode and buffers the volume variation during the discharge-charge process. The reduced graphene oxide@NiO nanocomposites present a great potential to be a promising electrode material in the near future for lithium-ion batteries.