Big Laurel Ranch

96%

49 reviews

· Blaine, Lawrence, Kentucky

350 acres hosted by Joanna W.

1 lodging site · 1 RV site · 3 tent sites

Joanna is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Off-leash friendly

Pets can be off-leash at some sites.

Big Laurel is a working cattle farm on land that has been in our family for 4 generations. The farm consists of 370 acres of bottomland pasture along the creek and quiet woodlands where you can explore jagged rock cliffs and beautiful vistas. The woodlands are undergoing transformation as we continue an ongoing forest rehabilitation project to return our land to its natural state as a deciduous hardwood forest. Spotted on the farm is an amazing abundance of wildlife including wild turkeys, white tailed deer, pileated woodpeckers, bobcats, coyotes, foxes, bear, and red tailed hawks.

Activities

Biking

Boating

Fishing

Hiking

Natural features

Cave

Forest

River, stream, or creek

Swimming hole

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Lodging 1 site

High on the Hill

95% (39)

Cabin · Sleeps 2 · 2 beds

This re-purposed hunting cabin sits high on a grassy knoll overlooking our 370-acre cattle ranch in the foothills of Appalachia. The cabin is about a 0.25 mile hike with a 200 foot elevation change. The cabin has a lovely front porch with beautiful views, a picnic table, swing, hitching post, self composting toilet and gray water system. The cabin, with its rustic vibe, dutch oven and oil lamps has a true pioneer feel. Open the gate to the next paddock, and climb up on the point for an even more spectacular vista of the Laurel Creek valley. Hike our trail over to the rock tower and arch at the entrance of the holler. Our host is happy to show you waterfalls, rock houses, rock cliffs , and other points of interest on the property but we also encourage you to go exploring on your own! While you shouldn't plan on cell reception here, we do have wifi at the main farmhouse that you are welcome to use, which is about a mile drive or 20 minute walk from the cabin. A nearby spring has an old bathtub in it if you need to get washed up or just want to cool off. Yatesville lake is only 15 minutes away, and Paintsville lake is 30 minutes away. Your host is on-site, but keeps true farmers hours, so you will generally not see him after dark. We are happy to give you privacy, or show you around the ranch depending on your interests. Lots of interesting flora, fauna, and rock cliffs to be seen on our property.

RV sites 1 site

Site 2 - Little Creek Campsite

100% (5)

Vehicle site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 20 ft

This wide nook in the forest across from an open field is the only spot on the ranch for car or camper camping. There are lots of trees for shade and hammock use. At night there is no light pollution making it perfect for watching the fireflies emerge and for stargazing on the nearby knoll. A small stream separates the two sites, making it a great place for a multi family camping retreat. There are many things to do on or near our property during your stay. Hike our trail up to the rock tower and arch at the entrance of the holler. Our host is happy to show you waterfalls, rock houses, rock cliffs , and other points of interest on the property but we also encourage you to go exploring on your own! While you shouldn't plan on cell reception here, we do have wifi at the main farmhouse that you are welcome to use, which is about a quarter mile drive from the campsite. Yatesville lake is only 15 minutes away, and Paintsville lake is 30 minutes away. Your host is on-site, but keeps true farmers hours, so you will generally not see him after dark. We are happy to give you privacy, or show you around the ranch depending on your interests. Lots of interesting flora, fauna, and rock cliffs to be seen on our property.

Tent sites 3 sites

Grab your tent and take a short walk to the top of the ridgeline for a campsite with beautiful views of the surrounding Kentucky farmland. There are many things to do on or near our property during your stay. Hike our trail up to the rock tower and arch at the entrance of the holler. Our host is happy to show you waterfalls, rock houses, rock cliffs , and other points of interest on the property but we also encourage you to go exploring on your own! While you shouldn't plan on cell reception here, we do have wifi at the main farmhouse that you are welcome to use, which is about a half mile drive from the campsite. Yatesville lake is only 15 minutes away, and Paintsville lake is 30 minutes away. Your host is on-site, but keeps true farmers hours, so you will generally not see him after dark. We are happy to give you privacy, or show you around the ranch depending on your interests. Lots of interesting flora, fauna, and rock cliffs to be seen on our property.

Surrounded by a beautiful meadow on the top of a small knoll this campsite is the most easily accessible of the hike-in sites on Big Laurel Creek Farm. Near the campsite is one of the many historical spots of the farm, a cemetery featuring a civil war era grave. Visible from the campsite is the Right Fork of Laurel Creek, the west boundary and the namesake of the farm. The Prairie Overlook site has many trails mere yards away. Further up the hill past the Hunting Cabin campsite is the Arch Trail, a short hilly trail leading to a Natural Arch and Eagle Rock, and the top of the Valley View Trail, a sunny sloping trail through old pasture land feature wildflowers and butterflies.

Located on the Vista Trail, Persimmon Point is the highest campsite on the property and has one of the most beautiful vistas of the whole farm. From this campsite there are many hiking options. Follow further along the Vista trail to the pastures, or head back towards the hunting cabin to see the Valley View Trail or Natural Arch.

500 ft

Reviews

96% Recommend64 ratings · 49 reviews

The campsite offers a serene escape with beautiful views and plenty of land to explore. Hosts are frequently praised for their kindness and helpfulness, enhancing the visitor experience. However, the access to the cabin requires a 4WD or a steep walk, which some guests found challenging, especially in muddy conditions. Despite a few logistical hiccups, the overall experience is largely positive, with guests enjoying the peaceful environment and the opportunity to unwind in nature.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

High on the Hill

The land (both forest and pasture) was beautiful and the hiking was spectacular! The hosts were very friendly and happy to help out when I needed something. I would absolutely return in the future

Noah S.

1 month on Hipcamp

Recommends

· February 2025

High on the Hill

Host was fantastic helped us get up to the cabin even though he was very busy. We had a great relaxing evening watching the sunset and enjoying a fire!

Jane K.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent ·

Prairie Overlook

The host here was awesome and super friendly! Nice piece of land to spend a nice on!

Nick S.

5 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Best place to tent camp for sure

Tent · With pets ·

Hilltop Campsite

So friendly an helpful me an my husband have been homeless an have very little an they were all wonderful gave us food an checked in on us will definitely stay again next time pass through thank you to all of you really change a life with random acts of kindness we never had before 😊

Robertn Rachel G.

9 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2024

Beautiful cow farm

Tent ·

Prairie Overlook

I didn't actually make it up to this particular campsite, since I was in a van and it had recently rained. However, they were great about me taking another site that was better for my vehicle camping. The farm was beautiful, great freshly mowed paths so you could stretch your legs before hitting the road.

Jamie B.

2 reviews

Recommends

· August 2024

We was able to have 3 dogs with us

High on the Hill

The cabin is away from everything but I need a 4wd to get up to it but if you don't have one they will be able to get u up there

Joe B.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2024

16 ft car ·

Site 1 - Little Creek Campsite

I had such a lovely stay on Joanna’s property. It felt private and safe and Joanna was very welcoming and helpful. My dog loved the trails and creek access too. Overall, we were very happy campers!

Delaney R.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2024

High on the Hill

Overall a great experience. Joanna was a great host, and the property is beautiful. Not necessarily negatives in my mind but: Would echo what others have said about carrying your stuff up a hill if you don’t have 4WD. Also keep in mind that it is an active farm so people may be driving by in tractors, etc.

Carson H.

2 reviews

Recommends

· May 2024

Beautiful area

18 ft campervan ·

Site 1 - Little Creek Campsite

Had a great stay at this site on a multi state trip Beautiful area Thank you

Tracy M.

4 reviews

Recommends

· May 2024

Just me and my cat - we loved it!

With pets ·

High on the Hill

This was a really beautiful spot!! It was just me and my cat that stayed here. We loved the views, loved how peaceful it was and really enjoyed ourselves. I like how the cabin is up the stairs, we could sit outside on the porch and relax. Loved it!

Amy C.

4 reviews

Mixed feelings

· April 2024

Tent · With pets ·

Hilltop Campsite

The view was truly beautiful I must say! It was quiet & easy to find. Host responded pretty quickly. Just a few things to clarify, ALL vehicles need to be 4-wheel drive to access these sites. If you don’t have one you WILL be packing your tent/sleeping bags, etc up a STEEP hill. I understand it does say about short walk to the sites but they fail to mention how steep it was. When booking this trip it asked if we wanted fire wood for an extra cost & of course we were fine with that. But upon arriving, there was NO fire wood that I was charged for, we had to gather dead trees around the area to build a fire. BUT I would go back with the knowledge we have now!

Amanda M.

6 reviews

Mixed feelings

· April 2024

High on the Hill

Hosts were very nice and responsive. There’s plenty of beautiful land to explore and wander through while taking in the views. The cabin was as pictured and suitable for a night of camping. Only issue was that the entrance to get to the hill was completely muddy, with shallow pools of water everywhere. It was undriveable and my feet/shoes were covered in mud after attempting to walk through. I decided to wash off and got back in my car to find some place else. Hopefully this isn’t a persistent issue and it’s easier to traverse in the future. I appreciate the hosts kindness and accommodating my later arrival.

Seth D.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2023

Late arrival w/ great experience

With pets ·

High on the Hill

We arrived really late to the site due to some hiccups in our original plan. Joanna was really helpful and took time to give us additional details so we would arrive safely in the dark. The site is up a steep hill which makes it a hard tiny hike up. But the height also allows you to get a beautiful view of the valley and a great cross breeze at night when you open the windows. The cots and all the additional details on the cabin made for a great experience and a comfortable night sleep. Overall great spot and hosts we would definitely come back. Thanks for sharing you space with guests!

Alice W.

3 reviews

Recommends

· June 2023

With pets ·

High on the Hill

The cabin was a peaceful spot up on the hill with gorgous views all around. Just be aware that it is a little walk from where you park your car, so be economical in what you want to bring to the site so you don't have to make multiple trips to the car. Ultimately, worth the effort!

Robert K.

7 reviews

Recommends

· May 2023

Wonderful stay

16 ft car ·

Little Creek Campsite

The hosts were just wonderful- friendly, flexible and so thoughtful. I stayed in the creek site and was able to get some much needed quiet downtime among the trees. Highly recommend!

Ann S.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2023

Great place/ great hosts.

16 ft car · With kids ·

Little Creek Campsite

Great spot. There are two camp sites divided by a tiny street (a stream you can easily hop over). We had two tents on one side and the fire and food stuff on the other side. It was well worth it. Beautiful back drop, farm animals in the distance, and lovely woods. It is a great spot. Also the host was very nice and welcoming.

Colton L.

2 reviews

Recommends

· March 2023

Beautiful

High on the Hill

She is a wonderful host and it is a beautiful site.

Julie P.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2022

Tent · Group trip ·

Hilltop Campsite

Beautiful land. Gracious hosts. Fantastic experience.

Brandon C.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2022

Great spot

Tent ·

Hilltop Campsite

Amazing space, they had us stay at a different spot than originally intended but it was a beautiful area with some cute cows near by. Host was very kind and let us explore on their property. 10/10

Randy P.

20 reviews

Recommends

· July 2022

With pets ·

High on the Hill

The cabin was cozy and peaceful and very remote. Just the complete off grid getaway I needed. The hosts were very responsive and helpful and provided me everything I needed for a great stay. Plenty of hiking and things to check out on their beautiful land as well.

Jara H.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2022

First Hipcamp - Won't be the Last

High on the Hill

What a great experience from the peaceful drive along country roads to Jo and Chris' ranch to the beautiful vista from the porch of the cabin. Jo's directions were perfect, and their online description of the property is complete and accurate. It is a little walk to the cabin and it is uphill so plan accordingly and don't overpack like me LOL! The cabin and outhouse were clean, the cots were comfy, and there are so many places to explore right outside your door. My pup had a blast and is probably going to sleep for days. I definitely plan on returning for another weekend this fall at the Reformed Hunting Cabin.

Christina K.

2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2022

Stargazing, Animal Friendly

High on the Hill

With every turn of the country road, we knew it was going to be more secluded. After receiving a warm greeting by one of our hosts, we were directed to our parking spot. The map was super helpful in points of interests and hiking trails. He was very thoughtful in catering to our hobbies such as fishing and boating. We trekked up the hill to the site. I suggesting packing light as this was a moderate walk and I completely overpacked. Still worth the trip to the car for my telescope, as the skies were clear and no light pollution at all. The site offers basic amenities such as cookware, a few camping chairs, two worn heavy duty chairs for porch (or inside cabin, if preferred), cots, a swing, lanterns and the luxury of a compost toilet. We happened to stay during some stormy days. The wind was very strong, but we stayed cozy and dry inside the cabin. Our doggo had tons of room to roam off leash; the light up harness was a total win. There were coyotes in the distance, but no animals visited the campsite to bother our gear. This rustic cabin gave the perfect mix of primitive camping along with the upscale of real walls, windows and a door. We would recommend this site to any other fellow outdoor lovers.

Rebecca B.

2 reviews

Not recommend

· April 2022

will not stay here again

With pets ·

High on the Hill

Unfortunately there were a few issues. mice feces all over surfaces, a window that blew open all night with 30’ weather. a neighboring fog that barked the entire night, and plates and silverware were left from previous renters unwashed. we let the host know and left a day early and they refused to refund us even after I had proof of pictures etc.

Mike K.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2022

Peaceful and quiet

High on the Hill

Loved it here, and we hope to be back in the summer! Lots and lots of space to roam and you are far enough away from other campers to feel like it is private enough if they are around their site. If there is some sort of gear you might need, if is probably already here (camp stove, chairs, etc.). Loved feeling far away from everything for a few days, we wished we had more time so we are planning on being back to explore some more. Also, we (humans and dogs) all drank from the spring on the last day because we ran out of water and we are all fine!

Kristina M.

8 reviews

Recommends

· March 2022

Camping with the cows

High on the Hill

The one thing I would note that isn’t highlighted enough is that you get to camp with cows! This hunting cabin is right in the middle of the cattle farm and the cows followed us around and even slept outside our cabin! It really added to the already amazing ambiance of this place. Also - toms of great hiking on the property, a gorgeous little drive from the gorge, and stunning views at every angle. Other than that, I’ll let the other reviews do this place the justice it deserves. In short - you will not regret your stay here!

Jeremy S.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2021

Little Creek Campsite

For a planned trip down to Kentucky to explore the graveyards of my ancestors - this quiet little hollow was a perfect place to call home base! Joanna had me all set up with lots of firewood and even loaned me her personal map of the area which made my explorations possible! The site was clean and easily accessible right off the road. To be clear - the "road" is close to you, but it is actually more like a driveway with little to no traffic. You wake to the sounds of the farm and little else!

Catherine P.

4 reviews

Recommends

· July 2021

Perfect get away

High on the Hill

Perfect get away with awesome hosts. Nice in night with star gazing

Abarajith V.

3 reviews

Recommends

· June 2021

High on the Hill

I absolutely loved our stay at the Reformed Hunting cabin. The rustic feel and views were absolutely stunning. And me and my significant other have now said it’s our place to return too. So magical.

Hannah A.

2 reviews

Recommends

· June 2021

True gem.

High on the Hill

Wonderful experience, property is beautiful and the cabin is great. Had a great time exploring, cooking food, and reading with a great view. Would highly recommend.

Ian J.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2021

Peaceful

High on the Hill

The view from the porch of the cabin was amazing!! So much to explore and do. They provided just about everything we forgot. We'll certainly be back!