Pioneer Home Farms
Unique backyard camping experience
Sheryl and John were super hosts. They were kind and informative and gracious. They even brought out some s'mores for us to roast on the first night. They were curious about all of us and we had some fun and funny conversations. They provided us with ample firewood and we are also able to leave them with our trash and recyclables which was helpful.
It ended up being a great trip, though upon arrival the site wasn't what we were expecting. It was much more like camping in someone's backyard than in a remote setting or even a campground.
I think there are two things that would have really made a difference in our stay...
The first is a fire pit in the hipcamp area. We had to leave the area where our tents, kitchen. and chairs were set up to go to the communal fire which was right outside our hosts back door. As I mentioned before they were super accommodating but it was hard to fully relax knowing that we were right next to their house and in their space.
The second thing is a bathroom option. Since the site is literally in their backyard I can understand why they don't want people digging catholes, but it's super rare even when backpacking to have to pack out your waste. I think if catholes aren't permitted then it would be appropriate to provide some kind of bathroom alternative. We ended up bringing a bucket and some sawdust which worked out okay, but truth be told it was pretty inconvenient given that this was a car camping situation.
Overall we had a good time and are grateful for the hospitality of our hosts and their family.
Arthur K.recommendsJanuary 7, 2019
Pioneer Home Farms
We stopped by Sheryl's ranch on our way down to Joshua Tree. It was a perfect stop with the kids. We really enjoyed the animals. Sheryl was very responsive.
Dominic C.recommendsNovember 26, 2018
Pioneer Home Farms
Great location near SLO and Paso Robles. Large private space behind a barn but close enough to the main building to feel safe.
Jon P.recommendsNovember 11, 2018
Pioneer Home Farms
John and Sheryl made our visit to the ranch life of Central Coast Templeton a cool and rewarding visit. With many ranches around this area, this is a good environment for their kids to grow up in. THEY learn responsibility and strive to do it well.
Clare M.recommendsOctober 7, 2018
Pioneer Home Farms
Beautiful farm, closer to their house than we realized.
Katie C.recommendsSeptember 8, 2018
Pioneer Home Farms
The directions were super easy and straightforward. I arrived and was greeted by the host. As of right now, they are only accepting RVs, motorhomes, vans, trailers since there is not a toilet available on the property for camper use.
I set up behind the barn, near the fence where the horse would come by and visit. I made a bon fire in the fire pit in their back yard and watched the sun set. The sky was so clear that I could see the milky way when the stars were out!! So cool