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    • Ginkgo Ridge

    Hosted by John · Gordonsville, Virginia
    3 sites · Lodging · 66 acres
    99%
    ·
    81 reviews
    Avatar
    Near Shenandoah National Park
    Within a 60-minute drive from the Swift Run Gap Entrance Station.
    Amazing views
    Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
    John 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 this Hipcamp.
    With views over the ocean of trees and town below, we offer three private and very comfy Glamping Cabins. Each of them provides a terrific place to experience the outdoors in comfort. We make it easy and fun to experience nature. Here, you can enjoy the breathtaking vistas, watch the spectacular sunsets, chase fireflies, make a campfire, search for the Milky Way, and then sleep easy in your own queen-sized bed on this historic property. The two original, off-grid, Jefferson Sea Cabins are perched on the eastern side of Ginkgo Ridge, And the newest, the Boxwood Overlook, sits on top of the ridge and includes electricity, AC, heat and lights. Ginkgo Ridge sits on the eastern side of the Southwest Mountains, which is the first mountain range west of the Atlantic. The views are big and far. Some say you can even see Portugal! Wildlife, including eagles, hawks, turkey, fox, rabbit, deer, fireflies and more are abundant on the 66-acre property. If you are interested in history, ask John. He will tell you about the Civil War battle fought here and the tobacco baron who once owned the estate. Two of our cabins are off grid — no electric and no plumbing but with alternative water and light. The third and newest enjoys electric. While there is no "running" water, we bring you fresh spring water. And while there is no electric in 2 cabins we make up for it with solar and battery lights and fans. We also offer a propane heater in all 3 to keep you toasty in cooler weather. Both off-grid cabins are equipped with a comfy, luxury queen-sized bed and box spring with fresh linens and plenty of pillows, a chair, and tables. The cabins are approximately 12x14 of interior living space plus a semi covered 16’ x 8’ deck with chairs and table. The original cabin is slightly smaller interior than the lower cabin. The newest third cabin is called the Boxwood Overlook Cabin, because it is surrounded by huge boxwoods and overlooks the entire property. It sits where the original main house was located, but burned down in the 1920's. It is more luxurious that the other 2. It's 12x20, includes an organic queen bed, refrigerator, reclining chairs, interior and exterior lights. And you can drive right to the front door. Each cabin gets a propane heater which keeps you toasty even on the coldest winter nights. In warmer months, the 2 off-grid cabins have battery-powered fans with plenty of industrial batteries. They also enjoys plenty of solar powered torch lamps which offer a terrific ambiance. We do recommend you bring flashlights and or headlamps. If you forget, no worries, we got you covered. The Boxwood Overlook cabin has electricity with interior and exterior lights, refrigerator and AC in the summer. All the cabins enjoy 5-gallon containers of fresh spring water and their own private Loo House/bathroom. The Loo Houses or bathrooms are semi open air. They have roofs, a solar bag shower, and bedside commodes with large, disposable, biodegradable bag inside with special sand that solidifies your waste. You dispose of the bag at a nearby trash box off property, just like a diaper. Extra bags are available. Each cabin has its own fire pit and grill with everything you need to make a fire, including split wood, kindling, newspaper and lighter. Firewood is $7.50 per crate. And if you need help starting your fire, no worries, John will help you. The "Jefferson Sea" is a description many attribute to the nation's 4th President, Thomas Jefferson, who enjoyed the same ocean-like view (but better) of fields and trees below his home at Monticello, that is located 15 miles down the road. Enjoy giant Ginkgo trees (especially in the Fall), boxwood gardens, colossal Tulip Poplars, and Osage Orange trees, and wild organic raspberries in July. We support BIPOC and all are welcome to enjoy our property :) There is a 2-night minimum on weekends. Just down the hill is the historic town of Gordonsville with perhaps the best BBQ on the east coast, wine tasting room, two breweries, several cafes and restaurants, grocery store and liquor store. Within minutes are Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, James Madison’s Montpelier and some of the nation’s finest vineyards, including Barboursville Vineyard and many others. The Blue Ridge Mountains, Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park, the University of Virginia and downtown Charlottesville are within 30 minutes. It’s just an hour to Richmond or Harrisonburg and less than two to Washington, DC, or 3 to We are very COVID-conscious! We comply with all COVID cleaning precautions which includes cleaning hard surfaces and fresh linens PETS We love dogs! Friendly and well-behaved dogs are welcome but we have pet rules out of necessity. Prior to making your reservation, please email us and tell us about your dog, describing their breed, size, temperament, owners ability to control dog, confirm that dog will be leashed and under your control at all times and that all vaccinations and flea/tick meds are up to date. There is a $25 fee per dog with a maximum of 2 dogs. Please see separate Pet Policy for details.
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    Reviews

    99% Recommend92 ratings · 81 reviews
    Ginkgo Ridge offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views and the perfect blend of nature and comfort. Guests frequently mention the helpful and friendly host, John, who ensures a smooth stay with his recommendations and attentive hosting. The cabins are cozy, clean, and equipped with conveniences like AC and a comfortable bed, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a glamping experience close to nature. With its proximity to local attractions, this site provides both seclusion and easy access to local amenities.
    Summary AI-generated from real reviews
    Recommends
    · June 2025
    Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
    Awesome space with spectacular views. Everything we needed and more! Highly recommend.
    D
    Danny S.
    2 months on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · May 2025
    With pets ·
    Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
    Lovely place - my dog absolutely loved this and it was a nice refuge and John gave the best recs for the neighborhood. Would love to be back another time!!!
    E
    Eunjee K.
    3 months on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · May 2025
    Boxwood Overlook House
    Exactly as described and absolutely beautiful! The view is indescribable, sunset spectacular and star gazing amazing. A slice of heaven in Gordonsville with more than enough to do nearby!
    K
    Kimberly B.
    4 reviews
    Recommends
    · April 2025
    Enjoy the VA mountains
    With pets ·
    Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
    John was really helpful and guided us to our site late at night after we got stuck in traffic on the way to his property. His land is really beautiful and had an awesome spot to sit and watch the sunset. Bed was comfy, cabin was clean. Close to Shenandoah NP and close to town. No complaints, we would return again.
    M
    Monica M.
    1 year on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · March 2025
    Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
    Our stay at Ginkgo Ridge was absolutely amazing. It was the perfect place to unwind—so peaceful, so refreshing, exactly what we needed to reset. The views were stunning, and the whole atmosphere just made us slow down and relax. John, the host, is such a kind and thoughtful guy. Communication was effortless, and he was always happy to help with anything we needed. And his pups? Absolutely adorable! We were so glad they came by for a short visit. If you're looking for a quiet escape surrounded by nature, this is the place. We’ll definitely be back!
    C
    Carolina M.
    4 months on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · October 2024
    Excellent!!
    With kids ·
    Boxwood Overlook House
    It was a great place to stay, and nearby everything we visited! The sunsets and sunrises are beautiful, my wife and kids loved the cabin and the meadow out in front. Extremely comfortable and John was great at hosting, even introducing my daughter to his dog. If you can stay here, do so!
    T
    Terry E.
    10 months on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · October 2024
    With pets ·
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    Great location with communal spaces for different lodging on site, but enough privacy if desired. Perfect option for those who wish for a camping experience with a little added protection from the elements.
    M
    Michelle E.
    10 months on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · October 2024
    Another wonderful trip
    With pets ·
    Boxwood Overlook House
    This was our second trip here and first in the Boxwood Overlook house. John was a great host. He checked on us daily and made sure the site had fresh water and everything was going smoothly. He also offered recommendations on places to eat, local wineries, and hikes. The boxwood overlook house is large shed outfitted with AC, heat, and electricity, and a comfortable queen size bed. All that said, this is still a glamping/camping site with all that nature has to offer. Our two dogs absolutely loved being leash free and playing hours of fetch. We plan to come back again and highly recommend!
    Avatar
    Lulani G.
    5 reviews
    Recommends
    · September 2024
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    John was super friendly and the space was clean, quiet, and so beautiful. The bed was a bit stiff but other than that we had a perfect relaxing evening with a gorgeous view!
    A
    Ashley M.
    2 reviews
    Recommends
    · September 2024
    A lovely weekend getaway from DC
    Boxwood Overlook House
    Great location! John gave us great recommendations on food and coffee nearby in the cute town of gordonsville. The cabin was very cute, there was AC, a refrigerator, and plenty of water. The bathroom situation was a new experience, a bit like a home health care portable toilet where you switch out the plastic bags that catch the waste. I recommend bringing additional trash bags to carry out your waste at the end of the trip. The space felt very private since you can’t see any other campers from your spot atop the hill. There was also a fire pit for having a fire. We went to luray caverns and the cedar run falls trail while there. On the second day we went to a local winery. A lovely weekend!
    A
    Anne B.
    3 reviews
    Recommends
    · June 2024
    Great little getaway
    With pets ·
    Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
    Excellent stay here at one of the tiny cabins!! It was very private and quiet with incredible views! It's a very close drive to downtown and main Street if you forget anything or want to pick up something. It was a nice little get away And it was nice to be able to let our dog run off leash!
    M
    Mike V.
    2 reviews
    Recommends
    · May 2024
    Boxwood Overlook House
    We had a wonderful glamping experience in the Boxwood Overlook House. Wonderful views over the Piedmont to the east and the sunset to the west. Our two dogs had the best time exploring. Little touches like the camp shower, water cooler, mini fridge, and drip coffee machine made this a convenient alternative to camping. The bed was comfortable and the A/C and fan worked great. And all was accessible with our sedan. I recommend you bring a sturdy trash or contractor bag for when you leave with your outhouse waste.
    K
    Katherine B.
    2 reviews
    Recommends
    · May 2024
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    Second time staying here and it was lovely both times! just as advertised, helpful host, beautiful location.
    R
    Roan B.
    5 reviews
    Recommends
    · April 2024
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    This is a beautiful space. I highly recommend it. Close to the national park and many wineries. Excellent host.
    K
    Katia A.
    9 reviews
    Recommends
    · April 2024
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    Awesome place to stay- super cozy and lovely view.
    A
    Alex L.
    2 years on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · March 2024
    Serenity
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    I had a great experience peace and quiet over looking the mountains..
    T
    Tahnesha H.
    1 year on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · March 2024
    Beautiful place to stay
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    Beautiful place to spend a few days! My host was very kind and helpful. The little cabin is set up beautifully and is comfortable. Had a great view of the sunset and stars, and a lovely little porch to enjoy the sun and birds in the morning. I would definitely recommend!
    Avatar
    Rebecca G.
    3 years on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · December 2023
    The cutest little cabin!
    With pets ·
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    We absolutely loved our stay here! I would recommend this place, or any of John’s properties, to anyone! It was very well kept, had everything we needed, and is at a great location. The cabin may be tiny, but it comfortably fit us (two 6ft+ adults) and our dog🙂. John gave us recommendations for wineries/breweries and restaurants in the area leading up to our stay, which was super helpful since I have severe food allergies and it is difficult to find places to eat. Gordonsville is such a lovely town with great restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops! The Main Street is just about a 5 minute drive away, but you still feel remote and like you’re camping here! Also, the stars at night are unbelievable, especially for being so close to town!
    Avatar
    Lucy E.
    1 year on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · October 2023
    With kids ·
    Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
    John is such a friendly and helpful host and his land is just beautiful! Camping experience in nature, but with the comforts of a nice bed, outhouse, table & chairs and fire pit with wood… just a quick drive from Charlottesville. Ideal getaway!
    Avatar
    Larissa P.
    4 reviews
    Recommends
    · October 2023
    With kids ·
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    Beautiful location with a very accommodating host. Recommend!
    K
    Kevin M.
    1 year on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · October 2023
    Beautiful views in great location
    Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
    John met us at the property and gave us a short overview of everything. His cabin was terrific, the views were amazing especially at sunset, and it made for a lovely getaway that felt really private and secluded but was only a couple of minutes from downtown Gordonsville, which had a number of fun and delicious restaurants, breweries and coffee shops. It was near Monticello, Montpelier, and lots of hiking, vineyards, and gorgeous scenery.
    A
    Amy B.
    1 year on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · October 2023
    Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
    Really pretty spot! Good amenities, clear directions, helpful host. Had a great time!
    Avatar
    Remy B.
    19 reviews
    Recommends
    · October 2023
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    John met us at the front, gave us a quick but thorough walk through and made things super easy! The views were beautiful, Gordonsville is great and Charlottesville isn't a far drive. Would recommend to anyone looking for a quick get away!
    C
    Cj S.
    1 year on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · July 2023
    Enjoyed every minute!!
    With kids ·
    Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
    Thank you, John! Beautiful location, high on a hill with spectacular views, and a sweet spot for watching the sunset. So much space for the kids to be kids and the dogs to be dogs! Loved it! Cabin is just as pictured - neat, well organized, and equipped with fresh water and fans to make for a wonderful night’s sleep. Outdoor shower and loo spotless and fully stocked. Will definitely stop again when we’re back in the area. And thanks again for the dinner recommendation. BBQ Exchange was delicious! Grateful for the warm welcome and kindness, John! Best, Maureen & family
    M
    Maureen D.
    2 reviews
    Recommends
    · June 2023
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    John’s tiny cabin was comfortable, beautiful and relaxing! It was super close to breweries and wineries. Perfect little getaway from the city.
    Avatar
    Lindsay L.
    3 years on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · June 2023
    Must visit!
    Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
    We had the best time at this site! John was extremely helpful with directions and recommendations for our stay. We used the camping kit and had everything we needed and more. The area was lovely and the fireflies at night were incredible. Would highly suggest staying here!
    C
    Corinna C.
    5 years on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · June 2023
    With pets ·
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    We enjoyed our stay at Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge. The views were beautiful. The site and cabin were both well maintained. John was very friendly and extremely responsive. Though we could hear an occasional car on nearby road and there was another cabin (as well as an Airbnb rental) on the property, there was plenty of room in between. We felt like we were secluded and had the privacy we needed. We would certainly return in the future.
    J
    J C.
    2 years on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · June 2023
    With pets ·
    Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
    The cabins were perfect in John’s land! He was very friendly and welcoming! The views were amazing and close enough to Charlottesville Va but still far enough to feel like you were isolated in the outdoors! Will definitely recommend and we will be coming back!
    R
    Raoul R.
    2 years on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · June 2023
    Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
    Had an absolutely lovely time here!! Fun fact: the public pool has five dollar cold showers :p
    Avatar
    Elena L.
    3 reviews
    Recommends
    · May 2023
    A gorgeous stay
    Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
    A wonderful stay from end to end. John was communicative and kind throughout. His property was stunning and the views were lovely. The cabin was comfortable and private but also close to stores and restaurants. I felt welcome and safe. Great fireflies and birds
    Avatar
    Helen W.
    2 years on Hipcamp

    Location

    Gordonsville, Orange, Virginia, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
    Avatar

    Hosted by John J.

    Joined in July 2020
    Response rate: 100%Response time: Within 2 hours

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    1. United States
    2. Virginia
    3. Gordonsville
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