Songdog East Campsites

The campsite itself was great. It was private and had a nice view of the hills surrounding us. It would have been helpful if there were signs directing us to the bathrooms though. Overall a good experience; however, as soon as we drove up to the property there was a massive Trump flag waving around. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion; however, had I known this would be the first thing I saw driving up, I would have chosen to take my business elsewhere and support a different campground. We did make sure to donate to a better cause to even out with our contribution to the campsite.

LOVED this spot so much I double dipped. Stayed at Songdog West last weekend and this weekend brought friends back to this side. Could not believe there was even a site available last min and happily snatched up site 3....pure magic. Site 3 is away from the other two and gorgeous. Plenty of room for multiple tents and close to some pretty hiking trails. This time of year the ground was a blanket of yellow flowers. My friends could not believe how great the spot was and how many little details Jim had thought of to make it comfortable and nice.

These newly-opened sites are a great addition to this already-amazing property. You can book them separately or all together -- there's a perfect private to social ratio. During our stay, we really enjoyed the shady area, the easy access to water, and the short walk to the clean bathroom. We had a fun time hanging out with other campers around the fire while enjoying the sunset. Before we returned to ​the Bay Area, we made a pit stop at Carrizo Plain National Monument. It's a beautiful drive, and Soda Lake is a unique site to see.

We decided last-minute to take a Labor Day Weekend camping trip. Knowing our usual favorite had been booked up 2 months prior, I did a quick Hipcamp search for available campsites in California, and this was the closest to us (only 1.5 hr drive!) Though the fella was skeptical about heading to New Cuyama in a heat wave, we gave it a shot.

We're pretty sure we'll be camping here a few times a year.

The things we loved:
1) Our hosts were welcoming, friendly, and accommodating (including the 2 camp dogs!). They're the kind of people you want to be your friends, outside of the hipcamp experience!
2) Our site (#3 on the east) had a great view of the valley and highway heading into the mountains, and besides the "Speakeasy Lodge" on the next ridge, you could only see the tops of the picnic table shelters at the nicely-spaced sites closest to us on the Mesa.
3) Sites on the east were spacious, and included a fire ring and grill, little bench by the fire, 2 canvas ROCKING CHAIRS, a picnic table (with a shelter sturdy enough for hanging a hammock), large trash can, and water
4) We were able to rent a tub (cleverly fashioned from a horse trough of all things) to fill will water and sit in during the hottest part of the day.
5) The sunrise as well as the sunset was stunning, and if it weren't for a bright moon, I am sure the stars would have been incredible!

(As it turns out, this place turned out to be about 10 degrees cooler than the coast for the whole weekend!)

*Bottom line, if you're looking for a laid-back spot to relax, with simple comforts and wide open skies, head out to Songdog! We'll certainly be back!

We have gone to Songdog 15-20 times over the past 4 years. It's beautiful wide open skies, and hills erupting with wildflowers are truly something to behold. It's been our favorite campsite by far. The owner's dog, Jill, has spent multiple nights with us just staring at the stars. My partner and I have even considered getting married there - and have brought 30-40 friends to Songdog over the years. I've shook the owner's hand about 10 times.

We love the land, which is why it is so painful to not be able to return. The owner, has recently started to put up political flags on his property - and I get his desire to express his political viewpoints in this day and age. But we come to campsites like Songdog to escape from the news and vitriol that surrounds us, not to further engage it. As Jim chooses to politicize his campground - we choose to no longer support him.

We highly suggest the campsites a little south in Lebec, CA. Beautiful, serene, and a true escape from the awful politics we find ourselves surrounded by.

Response from Jim, the Host, on September 10th, 2020

Stunning sight for sure, David. You wouldn’t believe what he’s had to risk and endure to make this place available to anyone interested. Can’t imagine he personally disrespected you, though. That’s not like him. Sorry to lose you, but glad you have options. -Jen (Jim’s daughter, just helping him catch up with technology). ;)

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Remove vote :(

Camp site was fine. We had a good time. Just wish we could have enjoyed our visit without politics being involved. We were attempting to take a break from all that. Alas...a political flag flying and some specific language used from our host let us know that there is no relief from political agendas as Songdog.

it was a very quiet and nice area. the scenery was amazing , and the owner has a good deal for fire wood. the wood he brings burns for a very long time ... the outhouse was also maintained pretty well. one of the best camp sites i have stayed at

First time on the east side of the ranch. Stayed in campsite #2. The campsites are spaced far enough from each other for privacy but close enough if you want to book multiple sites. Campsite #2 is the closest of the three to the outhouse which is great when you have to go in the middle of night. The east side has equally great views as the west side campsite which we've also stayed at a few times. This was the first camping trip for our two German Shepherd puppies and they loved it and had no trouble sleeping. We love this ranch and will continue to explore the different campsites on this property.

Very lovely and helpful hosts. Each campsite has it's own covered wooden picnic table, fire pit and is set amongst the juniper flowers. There was plenty of space between the campsites and it felt very private. Absolutely stunning night sky gazing.