Camping near the Pony Express National Historic Trail

Camping near the Pony Express National Historic Trail

Explore campsites within 5 miles of the Pony Express Trail.

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Follow the legendary route once used by riders carrying the nation’s mail, and find incredible campsites all along the way. This trail stretches across Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and California, with camping opportunities near historic stations and sweeping western landscapes.

34 places

Camp Westy Wine Country

1. Camp Westy Wine Country

91%
(11)
2 sites · Lodging · American Canyon, CA
Take in the sunny weather and open space while surrounded by other RVs on the property, where you’re welcome to wander, explore, and say hello to the animals. The ranch offers a relaxing setting that’s close to many attractions, but still feels like an oasis in the heart of California. The ranch is just a 7-minute drive from Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, offering a fun theme park day. You’re also only 20 minutes away from downtown Napa, home to world-class wineries and incredible food. If you’re craving some Bay Area adventure, the Vallejo Ferry Building is a 12-minute drive away, where you can catch the ferry directly into San Francisco. Nature lovers will enjoy nearby hiking spots like Newell Open Space, Wetlands Edge Park ( both just an 8-minute drive away), and Lynch Canyon Open Space, all offering cool views and plenty of trails to explore. While this may not be a traditional hotel stay, it’s a true California camping experience – comfortable, practical, and fun. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, our VW Vanagons provide everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Westfalia Camper / Vintage Camper Van / Glamping / Camp / Camping / RV / Instagrammable Stay / Unique stay / Ranch / Open Space / Hills / Glamping Napa / Vintage Volkswagen / Boho Camping / Off Grid / Van Camp / Family Stay
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$65
 / night
Once Upon a Ranch

2. Once Upon a Ranch

94%
(134)
8 sites · Tents · Dixon, CA
The Once Upon a Ranch consists of 32 acre of flat land located approximately 30 minutes from Sacramento, 35 minutes from Napa, and 40 minutes from San Francisco. It has a beautiful sunset of view of the Vacaville hills. Once Upon a Ranch is our farm that we continue to add animals to it. The 32 acre Ranch has plenty of room for you and your family to enjoy. Park your RV or pitch your tents throughout the designated sites on Once Upon a Ranch. You can choose to sit back, relax, and enjoy the country life. Once Upon a Ranch is located near lots of attractions, golf courses, wineries, and performing arts. From shopping at Vacaville Premium Outlets to entertainment at the Mondavi Center for Arts to the Dixon Fairgrounds, you'll find fun things to do in and around The Ranch. Take a Travis Air Force Base tour, which has one of the largest collections of warbirds in the west. Explore the area's old historic towns and more than 50 wineries in scenic Solano County. Or visit the campus of UC Davis. Food and Drink Package available: if you do not want to pack drinks and food, we have a food and drink package you can purchase. Reach out to us once you have book for selections and pricing. Rules and Safety: no littering, remove and pack out your own trash and wastes, provide your own self contained black and gray waste system, pets are allowed however they have to be on a leash at all time and all pet wastes are to be removed and packed out at the end of your stay, no fire works or gun allow on Once Upon a Ranch, quiet hours are Mon-Sun 10pm-7am.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Harris Family Farm and Forest

3. Harris Family Farm and Forest

95%
(762)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Pollock Pines, CA
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our cherished historic family farm, spanning 160 years and 7 generations. Nestled in the serene surroundings of an Apple Hill™ Grower farm, our property offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Choose to camp amidst the lush woods or in our enchanting apple orchard. Spend your days engaging in farm activities, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply unwinding in this idyllic setting. During the harvest season, delight in the experience of hand-picking a variety of fruits and vegetables at their peak of ripeness. Participate in our popular jam making classes held in August, and September for $55 per person, or indulge in a delightful High Tea in the Orchard, hosted on Mother’s Day weekend and June spring afternoons for $45 per person. Be sure to secure your spot early for these sought-after activities, as they tend to fill up rapidly. Our farm is conveniently located near picturesque mountain lakes and charming historic towns, offering ample opportunities for further exploration and discovery. We eagerly anticipate welcoming you to our farm, where you can enjoy invigorating woodland hikes, lend a hand with farm chores, and partake in our weekend bonfire gatherings featuring s'mores and delectable treats from our pie shop. Don't miss the chance to harvest blackberries, apples, and pumpkins during their respective seasons, adding a touch of seasonal magic to your visit.
Pets
Potable water
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from 
$44
 / night
Cloud Peak Llama and alpaca ranch

6. Cloud Peak Llama and alpaca ranch

96%
(211)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Casper, WY
Cloud Peak Llamas was established in 1987 and is known as one of North Americas Llama Pioneers. They continue to raise quality llamas for fiber, packing and disposition. We started as the first llama packer in the state of Wyoming and now we welcome campers to come and spend the night with us. While you are here, shop in the wool room where we carry luxurious alpaca and llama fiber and all kinds of llama gifts. Relax and enjoy the firepit. We are a working ranch and do not provide any hookups such as water, electricity or sewer. That would change the experience you get while staying on the ranch. RV's are welcome to use their generators. Water is available for drinking and to fill up your tank. The bathroom is closed for the season and will not open until the weather improves. We have two dog runs available. Your dogs need a rest while traveling so feel free to let them off leash in the dog run. We have a lot of open room so we will help you park in the pasture where you will be surrounded by the animals. We have a short dirt road leading into the ranch. If you love animals and want a ranch experience this is a campsite for you? There is not another camping experience like this. You will love it!! Each year, we are voted one of the best campsites in the state .
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
King Madrone

8. King Madrone

96%
(28)
4 sites · Tents · Placerville, CA
Learn more about this land: Tent sites are next to the pear orchard. Choose any site. There is no need to meet with the host when you arrive. Follow the red arrows. Do not proceed the home located at 1071 Fruitridge. Look for the Hipcamp sign and red arrow markers and turn left into the orchard lane. Location: Use google maps and locate 1071 Fruitridge Rd in Placerville, CA. When you get to 1071, which is a house on the right side of the paved driveway, look for our Hipcamp sign in red, turn hard right into the orchard and follow the red arrows past a wood barn, and up to a small red shed. At this point you may camp in the meadow next to the shed or you may proceed to the next meadow over to the left (follow red arrows and look for umbrellas). We normally only have one site occupied per evening. Ocaisonally two sites will be occupied. The sites are very private and quiet as this is a large, private ranch. You can park close to your tent site. 2WD / 4WD access weather permitting. We offer 3 sites in a large meadow area. Max of 4 persons per site. RV's welcome but we do not have hookups. RV's will be parked next to our barns surrounded by pear orchards. Fresh drinking water is available in the tent meadow area. Hot showers are now available at $10 extra per nite per site. A gas BBQ is now available at a common area. Please don't move the BBQ. Deer, wild turkeys, geese aplenty. Ample walking opportunities on our ranch and wild forestlands and amazing granite rock outcrops. Visit the South Fork of the American River (you can raft in summer!) Hunt for old gold mines on our place and, maybe, find some new ones! Go wine tasting very close by (Lava Cap, Madrone, Boeger) and visit Sutter's Mill in Coloma, where gold was discovered back in 1848.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
The days we will cherish. Photo by Nic Castellanos.

9. Camp Nauvoo

98%
(1173)
25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Placerville, CA
Camp Nauvoo was originally bought by the LDS church in the 1960's for a girl's camp. The camp was owned by the Boy Scouts from 2011-2015. The Rose family bought the property in 2016 with the intent to continue the tradition of tent camping as well as creating opportunities for exclusive events i.e., group/family reunions, weddings and corporate events. We are a small privately owned small campground (20 sites only) located on the outskirts of Placerville. The property features 86.5 secluded Tahoe like acres with beautiful year-round Weber Creek. The camp sites are placed along the creek or the bluff overlooking the creek. We have traditional dirt camping, canvas tents on platforms, teepees and glamping tents for those that want the comforts of home. We are tent camping only with only one site that allows a small travel trailer or van. (#14) . We are dog friendly and allow dogs in all but 5 glamping sites. We do enforce camp rules especially our quiet time between 10 PM and 7 AM (please review). We’ve been told that we have a “family camp” vibe. We are a great place for families wanting a safe environment for their kids but also several group sites for those that want to hang out together with multiple families. We are also a great base site for those wilderness enthusiasts with access to all the El Dorado National Forest including Desolation but want a hot shower at the end of the day. We have a lodge that is stocked with games and a ping pong table. The lodge has a microwave, Keurig machine and a hot water kettle for those hot drinks (BYO Cups).We have several tables set up for those that want to eat inside as well as multiple picnic tables along the side of the lodge with overhead protection. We have electricity at the at the lodge for small appliances and charging phones. We have a compressor on site to blow up your air mattresses or float toys. We’ve been told that our bathrooms are the “cleanest” ever and have changing tables and diaper pails. We offer nice flushing toilets and hot showers! We have many extra amenities including a compressor to use for your air mattresses, For outdoor activities we have basketball, volleyball, pickleball and cornhole not to mention the playground with swing set . We have hiking trails throughout the property. Our highlight is a camp fire bowl with bench seating with a stage to display camper talent which is perfect for the evening fire and roasting s’mores (bring the fixings). The creek starts out in spring looking like a rushing river featuring many fishing and swimming holes. As the summer progresses the water level falls but is still great for water play and fishing. We have propane BBQs (we provide the propane for BBQs) located throughout the property. We also have a propane grill and charcoal BBQ located in the common area for all to use. There is a dutch oven pit also in the fire bowl area. We do not allow wood fires at the individual sites but each site has a propane firepit for ambiance (not cooking) that requires you to purchase a 20 lb. propane cannister on site (add in extras) or pay cash on site. No internet service. There is limited internet only available for purchases at the setore. We require a 3 night minimum for the major holidays - Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day. We do exclusive events so you may need to explore multiple weekends to find the right reservation. We are located in the foothills so we are a short hop to many local attractions that include river rafting, gold mines, wineries and historical towns with great eating establishments. Tahoe is less than an hour away and there a many hiking trails within 20-30 minutes. We have a limited number of items to rent i.e, tents, cots, camp stoves, etc. We rent a battery pack for those that use a cpap. We also have a small store on site for those items you forgot and a good selection of ice cream and ice. We take venmo or cash. CHECKIN IS BETWEEN 4 AND 8. IF YOU ARE COMING FROM THE BAY ALLOW 4 HOURS - YOU MUST LEAVE BY 3:00 IN ORDER TO ARRIVE DURING CHECKIN. IF YOU GET DELAYED, FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF THE OTHER CAMPERS YOU MAY CONSIDER WAITING AND ARRIVING THE NEXT MORNING. THERE ARE NO CHECKINS AFTER 9:00.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$80
 / night
High Heaven

10. High Heaven

99%
(67)
4 sites · Tents, RVs · Evanston, WY
Welcome to Big Sky Country with fabulous sunrises and sunsets everyday. My 35 acres sit at 7500 ft elevation with 360-degree views for miles around, including view of the snow-capped Uintas. No neighbors (unless you count the occasional cattle or sheep as it is open range). Starry skies, red cliffs, sage seas, junipers, howling coyotes: the Wild West at its best. Pull in your RV or pitch a tent. Lots to see and do in the area. The Piedmont ghost town and kilns are 15 minutes away. The majestic Uinta mountains are 30 minutes to the southeast on the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. Check out the local bison herd (including its famous white bison) at Bear River State Park in Evanston. While there, walk around the Historic Depot Area and the Union Pacific Roundhouse and Railyards further to the west. The downtown stretch along Main St. is step back in time and the site of our local brewery (Suds). Up the road on I-80 is historic Fort Bridger. Fishing available at local reservoirs and Bear River.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Hidden Pearl Pasture

11. Hidden Pearl Pasture

100%
(3)
1 site · Tent · Placerville, CA
4 MINUTE DRIVE TO DOWNTOWN PLACERVILLE! And a 5 min walk to the bike path that leads to downtown. The French Pasture is a beautiful campsite surrounded by an oak, plum and apricot tree. There is a small 1 minute hike through the land from the parking spot to the campsite. The camp has a wooden picnic table with a canopy. The photo shows a two person tent but the site can fit a 10x10 foot tent. A few things to consider: 1. We do have a fire pit, but the area for the fire is not leveled yet (as the camp and table section is). Coming soon! 2. There is a portable shower and portable toilet option. Hot water is not available. (See photos). 3. The freeway can be heard from the campsite. The positives: 1. Downtown Placerville is only a 3 -5 minute drive. There is also a bike trail walking distance from the campsite to downtown that is an approximate 15 minute walk. 3. Morning coffee will be provided by hosts. We have a Golden Doodle Dog that may greet you at your campsite. Enjoy your stay at the French Pasture Campsite!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Pull through or back in.

12. Little Ponderosa RV Camp

96%
(155)
2 sites · RVs · Douglas, WY
This property belonged to my grandparents. My grandpa and grandma ran cattle and sheep on the land and put up hay. They raised my dad and his two brothers on the place. My dad and mom built a house just West of the property, where I grew up, walking over the hill to visit Grandpa and Grandma. They sold the ranch when I was 10 years old. The place was sold 3 times before I was able to buy it back in 2021. The purchase included an RV campsite. My wife Lindsey and I thought, what a great way to meet people and share a little piece of our amazing Wyoming. There is nothing better in the world than waking up early in Rural Wyoming! Learn more about this land: Open views of hay meadows, cattle, sheep and sagebrush. The area around the campsite is an open field with easy interstate access. There are neighbors within view and our home is approximately 1/4 mile away from the two RV camping spots. We have kids, horses, sheep, dogs, cats and rabbits. There are also antelope and deer. We do offer electrical, septic and water hookups at both locations. Both sites are immediately adjacent to one another. Just a short drive from Douglas, Wyoming and Natural Bridge State Park. RV Rentals at RV Share We are affiliated with RV Share where RV Renters Meet RV Owners. Click the links below to find out more: RV Rentals - https://clicks-partners.rvshare.com/aff_c?offer_id=2&aff_id=94 New Owner Sign-ups - https://clicks-partners.rvshare.com/aff_c?offer_id=1&aff_id=94
Pets
Trash
from 
$35
 / night
1959 Airstream Tiny Home- Hot Tub!

14. 1959 Airstream Tiny Home- Hot Tub!

91%
(22)
1 site · Lodging · South Salt Lake, UT
Hot Tub, Hot Tub, Hot Tub This 1959 Airstream is sure to provide a romantic and uniquely unforgettable experience. See what tiny-home living is all about! Private Deck Hot Tub Hot Water Ac/Heat year round comfort -Nostalgic mostly original/updates where it matters. -Propane fire-pit off-street gated, driveway parking -Two single beds -Fast WiFi -Streaming TV with Netflix Fully fenced yard with driveway gate. Chad, the owner lives on-site, yet provides privacy. This is located in a urban/suburban area, and Chad owns the little oasis and lives in the front home. You will likely see him and he will say hello but allows you privacy and to enjoy your alone time. If you are the kind of person who would like to connect, Chad loves meeting guests, sharing a meal or a drink, and get to know his guests. You get to the set the tone on that! With 6000+ reviews on another major platform, Chad is a professional host and has made Real Estate, STR's, experiences and hospitality his profession. As a Top 500 RE agent in Utah, out of nearly 20,000 agents, Chad is knowledgable in the Real Estate space and can talk your ear off on that, but also enjoys YOGA, Breathwork, plant medicines, and exercise.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$51
 / night
Peaceful Prairie Campsites

16. Peaceful Prairie Campsites

97%
(479)
20 sites · Tents, RVs · NE
Visit us and discover why Hipcamp named this property the best Hipcamp to visit in Nebraska for the past three years. Located within 2 miles from Hwy 71, we're easy to find, easy to love, and easy to leave, according to hundreds of guests who have left positive recommendations... Peaceful Prairie Campsites consists of 200+ acres of prairie pasture bordering the south side of Scotts Bluff National Monument. Under the care of third generation steward, Lisa Betz-Marquez, the beautiful bluffs feature a stunning backdrop to a those seeking a private and peaceful experience, birding, wildlife-spotting, or an adventure-seeking hike. Rustic Tent sites (allowing cars, vans, rooftop tents, truck campers, and motorcycles, but not RVs or pull-behind trailers) are located directly on the prairie. The prairie is a fragile environment. To preserve its beauty and health, trailers and RVs must book the RV sites. We appreciate your cooperation. RV sites 50 amp electricity and a rustic experience on crushed concrete near our corral. You'll have foot access just steps from the prairie. All sites share access to delicious potable water, a clean porta potty, and a funky outdoor camp shower (with unheated water), as well as private foot access to hiking at various levels of challenge to the south side of our nation's Scotts Bluff National Monument. A small group of yearling cattle are at home on the prairie in summer months, and may share you the prairie tent area with campers in the months of May and June. Prairie guests have relished the feeling of having the place to themselves to enjoy the majesty of the landscape, the magic of our starry night skies and the soulful communion with the land. Lisa is the fourth generation of her family to live on Valley View Farm, located directly south of the prairie. Her family has been steward of these lands since 1925. Lisa is a member of a pioneer family. Ancestor, Martin Gering, came to the valley in 1887. As an early investor in the fledgling town, the town of Gering was named for him. If you're a history buff, ask Lisa to tell you more...
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night
Folsom Lake

18. Folsom Lake

96%
(92)
7 sites · Lodging · Granite Bay, CA
PLEASE TAKE NOTE: THERE ARE 2 DIFFERENT CAMPGROUNDS AT 2 DIFFERENT LOCATIONS ON FOLSOM LAKE: ONE LOCATION IS BEALS POINT CAMPGROUND IN GRANITE BAY. (HAS BOTH BASIC AND LUXURY GLAMPING) THE 2ND LOCATION IS PENINSULA CAMPGROUND IN PILOT HILL (ONLY HAS BASIC GLAMPING) Located at the base of the Sierra foothills, the lake and recreation area offers opportunities for hiking, biking, running, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, water-skiing and boating. Fishing offers trout, catfish, big and small mouth bass or perch. Visitors can also see the Folsom Powerhouse (once called "the greatest operative electrical plant on the American continent"), which from 1885 to 1952 produced 11,000 volts of electricity for Sacramento residents. For cyclists, there is a 32-mile long bicycle path at Beals Point that connects Folsom Lake with many Sacramento County parks before reaching Old Sacramento. The park also includes Lake Natoma, downstream from Folsom Lake, which is popular for crew races, sailing, kayaking and other aquatic sports. At both locations, you will stay in 16ft deluxe tents. Each tent has 2 full beds in them. At Beals Point we offer "Luxury" Glamping with real furniture, cozy bedding, and all the amenities you need for a relaxing and fun filled stay for up to 8 people (AT BEALS POINT ONLY!). At both Beals Point and Peninsula, we also offer "Basic" Glamping, where we bring the tent and mattresses, and you bring the rest. This means that you need to bring your own sheets, pillows, sleeping bags, blankets and other camping essentials. Close by the sites are public restrooms with running water, drinking water, and showers. Hiking trails are found all around at both locations. At Beals Point you can rent kayaks, visit the snack bar, or take a dip in the lake- whatever suits your needs can be found close by!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$99
 / night
Wathena Riverfront Campground

20. Wathena Riverfront Campground

96%
(13)
17 sites · Tents, RVs · Wathena, KS
It is a private camping club which is made up of 10 waterfront acres along the main channel/current of the majestic Missouri River. It is about 2.5 miles SW of Wathena, KS and is bordered by Walnut creek to the south and a small creek just north of the boat ramp. We do not have staff on site on a scheduled basis. Campground and riverfont access is for registered guest only, there are no public facilities. Larger RV sites with electric only (30 amp camper plugs). The nearest RV dump station is at Love's Truck stop in St. Joseph 14 miles to the East. Each site has its own fire ring. You may bring your own wood or buy some at Casey's in Wathena. There is a hydrant near the elevated deck which is supplied with city water in case you need to fill jugs. Feel free to fish and enjoy shore fires along the banks of the Missouri River, but do so at your own risk and supervise minors at all times. Remember to bring your own fishing gear for an immersive experience by the water. Experience the tranquility of the riverfront and make the most of your stay. There is a fairly steep boat ramp past site 10. There are public boat ramps that are maintained in nearby Elwood, St. Joseph (near the Casino) and Atchison. This ramp can only be used by registered campground guest only and users assume all risk to themselves and property. The campground is at the original steamboat landing and downtown of the now ghost town of Palermo, KS. Nearby town of Wathena (2.5 miles) is the site of the beginning of the California Trail where settlers were let off at the river NE of town (area and trail is marked) and headed west. The Pony Express started at nearby St. Joseph, MO (9 miles) and passed through the area. It has a museum. Wathena has Star 36 Diner (breakfast, lunch and supper), the legendary Dairy Barn (ice cream and food options), VFW bar, quilting store.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night