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Blackthorn Retreat

Hosted by Dave · Randolph, Kansas
14 sites · RV, Tent, Lodging · 101 acres
99%
·
198 reviews
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Best Hipcamps in Kansas
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2026.
Best in Kansas: Finalist
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.
Staff verified
Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.
Dave is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
Blackthorn Retreat is a private campground unlike anywhere else in the area. Our campsites are nestled among towering oak, osage orange, walnut, and cedar trees. The result is a forest sanctuary where nature still thrives, wildlife roams freely, and campers can find both solitude and adventure. Here you’ll find a variety of ways to stay: dispersed camping under the trees, secluded sites for maximum privacy, canvas tents already set on wooden decks, a group gathering space, small cabins, and even areas for hammocks, RVs, and camper trailers. Every site comes with a picnic table and fire ring, and all guests enjoy access to clean porta johns, a hot-water outdoor shower, potable water, an electronics charging station, and plenty of communal amenities—a massive BBQ grill, multiple fire rings, a pavilion, clay pizza oven, and a playground for the kids. Beyond your campsite, 80 acres of woods, winding trails, and a river are yours to explore. Whether you’re here to watch wildlife, listen for the birds at dawn, share stories by the fire, or simply slow down and breathe in the stillness, Blackthorn Retreat is ready to welcome you. Adventure awaits—come see for yourself.

Select a site

Tent-only sites

3 sites
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The Swing Camp

98%
(25)
Tent site · Sleeps 6
During the exploration of our woods we found a tree that needed an old fashioned swing. This campsite is perfect for kids age 5-90. The fully shaded campsite has room for two tents and trees for hammocks. It includes a picnic table, fire ring and, of course, the old fashioned board swing. Parking is about 20 feet away and you can see your vehicle from camp. The porta john and central gathering area is about a three minute walk away. You also have access to our 80 acre wooded property, trails, creek access and plenty of places to explore.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
Showers
Picnic table
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Camp Ash!

96%
(13)
Tent site · Sleeps 6
Camp Ash is tucked into the woods but still close to wifi! This secluded little spot has room for up to three tents, a large picnic table and large fire ring. Fully shaded by evergreen trees, no good for sun tanning but great in the summer heat! Perfect for a family or small group of friends. This is a walk in spot with parking a couple hundred feet away. You can hear traffic from the road although it decreases significantly during the night. You also have access to our 80 acre wooded property, trails, creek access and plenty of places to explore.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
Showers
Picnic table
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Group Camping in the Woods

100%
(3)
Tent site · Sleeps 20
This campsite easily accommodates groups up to about 20 people. Laid out in a semi circle with tent sites around the edges. There's room for five, 6 person dome tents (10'x12') with one spot being 16'x20' for a large cabin or bell type tent. This mostly shaded area has a large fire ring, two large picnic tables, and a counter/food prep station for your use. Supplies can be unloaded right at camp but parking is about a minute walk away. The porta john is about a minute walk the other direction. The main gathering area, clay pizza oven and outdoor shower is about a three minute walk away. You also have access to our 80 acre wooded property, trails, creek access and plenty of places to explore.
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
Showers

RV/tent sites (dispersed)

6 sites
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Blackthorn Basecamp

100%
(84)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 6 · Vehicles under 20 ft
Setup a tent, hang a hammock or stay in one of our primitive structures. Blackthorn-USA is an Outdoor Adventure School in Randolph, KS.  teaching Primitive Skills, Bushcraft, Homesteading and more. Our campsites range from moderately secluded, semi groomed areas to completely wild and untraveled. Off road vehicle parks, ziplines, kayak rentals and outstanding hunting and fishing are just a short drive away. Our forests of cedar, oak, walnut, osage orange, cottonwood and more, along with our close proximity to water, provide excellent habitat for whitetail deer, raccoon, bobcat, fox, beaver, muskrat and many others. Many birds make their home here as well. It’s not uncommon to see turkey, hawks and eagles during the day or hear various owls at night. The Flint Hills provides us with an abundance of flint and other unique rocks from glacial deposits. The diversity of plants, trees, wildlife and other natural resources make this an ideal place to learn, grow and relax under the stars.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
No electrical hookup
No water hookup

Lodging

5 sites
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The Gothic Pod

100%
(62)
Glamping pod · Sleeps 2 · 1 bed · 1 toilet
Our Gothic Pod is based on the ancient Gothic Arch design. It features: Full Size Bed Mini-Fridge Microwave Air Conditioning Heat Free WiFi USB Ports Fire Ring And access to our 80 acre wooded camping area with multiple fire rings, a clay pizza oven, trails, creek access and more! Notice! This Pod has a ceiling height of 6' 2". If you are tall, consider our Gothic Pod 2 which has a higher ceiling. Thanks!
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
Showers
Picnic table
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Gothic Pod 2

98%
(30)
Glamping pod · Sleeps 2 · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 toilet
Our Gothic Pod 2 is based on the ancient Gothic Arch design. It features: Full Size Bed Mini-Fridge Microwave Air Conditioning Heat Free WiFi USB Ports Fire Ring And access to our 80 acre wooded camping area with multiple fire rings, a clay pizza oven, trails, creek access and more!
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
Showers
Picnic table
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Bell Ravine

97%
(16)
Bell tent · Sleeps 6 · 1 bedroom · 4 beds · 1 toilet
Spend a weekend in our 3 meter canvas Bell Tent. This elevated, platform tent is perched on a rock outcropping overlooking a small valley. It's not uncommon to see deer walking through or squirrels playing in the valley below while sitting on the deck. This campsite is walk in with parking a couple hundred feet away. The porta john is about a two minute walk and the central gathering area about 3 minutes away. This is a moderately secluded spot off the main trail. A picnic table and fire ring are provided. Room for an extra tent for kids, friends or even a screened popup canopy. You also have access to our 80 acre wooded property, trails, creek access and plenty of places to explore.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
Showers
Picnic table
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Rock Ridge

100%
(12)
Canvas tent · Sleeps 4 · 1 bedroom · 2 beds · 1 toilet
Spend the weekend in this 7'x7' canvas pyramid tent perched on the edge of a rock outcropping. Mostly shaded by large Oak and Walnut trees. Fully screened doors on both sides for air flow and the views. Comes with a full size inflatable mattress. Free firewood for this new site in 2023! This campsite is walk in with parking about a minute away. The porta john is about a two minute walk and the central gathering area about 3 minutes away. This is a moderately secluded spot off the main trail. A picnic table and fire ring are provided. Room for an extra tent for kids, friends or even a screened popup canopy. You also have access to our 80 acre wooded property, the central gathering area, wood pizza oven, trails, creek access and plenty of places to explore.
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
Showers
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Shepherds Wagon

100%
(1)
Shepherd's hut · Sleeps 3 · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 toilet
Step back in time and experience the cozy charm of a traditional shepherd’s wagon, used for centuries by shepherds tending their flocks. This rustic yet inviting space combines history with comfort—your own little kitchen, dining room, bedroom, and retreat all rolled into one. The shepherds wagon features a full size bed, bench seating, a slide out table and various cabinets and cupboards to keep your camp organized. A fold out bed can be used for an additional person. Windows on each end with screens to let the fresh air in while keeping the bugs out. Enjoy a weekend getaway with campfire cooking and covered wagon living! This campsite is drive up and parking is at the site. The portal john is about a 5 minute walk and the central gathering area about 6 minutes away. This is a moderately secluded spot off the main trail. A picnic table and fire ring are provided. Room for an extra tent for kids, friends or even a screened popup canopy. You also have access to our 80 acre wooded property, trails, creek access and plenty of places to explore. With abundant wildlife, tranquil surroundings, and a truly unique stay in the shepherd’s wagon, this is the perfect getaway for nature lovers, families, or anyone craving peace under the stars.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
Showers
Picnic table

Reviews

99% Recommend248 ratings · 198 reviews
The campsite offers a quiet and peaceful retreat, ideal for those seeking a bit of solitude in nature. Visitors appreciated the spacious and private sites, with many enjoying the outdoor shower after a long journey. Dave, the host, consistently receives praise for his friendliness and willingness to accommodate guests' needs. The property is well-equipped with amenities like fire pits, a playground, and trails to explore, making it suitable for families and solo campers alike.
Summary AI-generated from real reviews
Recommends
· October 2026
15 ft travel trailer ·
Blackthorn Basecamp
This site was quiet and peaceful, the outdoor shower was very welcome after a long drive, and Dave was very accommodating!
Recommends
· September 2026
Rock Ridge
Super nice location and Dave was super friendly! It was a nice low key spot to just get away for a little bit.
Recommends
· September 2026
Tent ·
The Swing Camp
Our tenting campsite was great! Spacious and private. We were just passing through so we didn't get to enjoy anything else on site. Host was friendly and helpful.
Recommends
· September 2026
19 ft truck camper ·
Blackthorn Basecamp
Had a great stay here with convenient amenities. The property was fun to explore and Dave was super nice and helpful.
Recommends
· August 2026
Stargazers
Gothic Pod 2
Dave’s land and hipcamp is very unique. Our grandsons really enjoyed the trail behind our Pods and walk down the road. The star gazing was phenomenal! Dave was responsive to inquiries I had and very welcoming to all of us.
Recommends
· July 2026
The Gothic Pod
Dave was an awesome host! Very helpful and responsive. Place was as cool and unique as you see in the pictures
Recommends
· July 2026
Best Primitive Camping EVER!!!
Rock Ridge
Dave is such a friendly, helpful and an overall AMAZING host! His land is so beautiful and there’s so many fun things to explore. The camping spots themselves are impeccable from the views to the solitude, it’s everything you’d want and more. It’s a great place to be one with nature or sit back and relax.
Recommends
· July 2026
Tent ·
Blackthorn Basecamp
Dave was super friendly and accommodating when there was storms. The area is super cool. We stayed at base camp and there were picnic benches, covered areas with seating, a playground, and more. About 2 min down the road there is a state park on the lake. There is also a porta-potty, shower, and lots of fire pits!!
Recommends
· May 2026
Trees!
12 ft pop-up camper ·
Blackthorn Basecamp
Lots of privacy with trees everywhere. Easy to find with any supplies you need nearby. Friendly host that gave us options due to heavy rain all day.
Recommends
· May 2026
The Gothic Pod
Everything about this site is to notch, especially the owner! Make sure to try the shower!
Recommends
· May 2026
16 ft car ·
Blackthorn Basecamp
It’s was awesome! Dave was nice and gave a map of the land to explore. The land was beautiful and the whole trip was very nice.
Recommends
· May 2026
Great spot
Tent ·
The Swing Camp
What a perfect place. Not for everyone, but great rustic camping
Recommends
· May 2026
16 ft car ·
Blackthorn Basecamp
Dave was very friendly and helpful. The land was beautiful!
Recommends
· March 2026
Retreat in the Woods
The Gothic Pod
I had a nice retreat in Dave's Gothic Pod. The pod has a comfortable bed and the heat worked well. I enjoyed a walk in the woods and visits from friendly dogs.
Recommends
· March 2026
Highly recommend
Tent ·
Camp Ash!
Dave's property is amazing! There are lots of places to explore, his land also borders Fancy Creek wildlife area. Dave was very down to earth and very interesting to talk to. He has extensive knowledge on survival skills, he also teaches classes. We enjoyed ourselves a lot, very quiet and private. There is also a nice playground for kids
Recommends
· November 2025
Tent ·
The Swing Camp
I've been there four times now, without and without my kids. A great property and a great host.
Recommends
· November 2025
Tent ·
Blackthorn Basecamp
Dave was helpful. Lots of cooking supplies available. Very private.
Recommends
· November 2025
Tent ·
The Swing Camp
Our third visit to Blackthorn and we love it more every time. Camping areas are spread out amongst the woods, and it’s really lovely in cool fall weather! We had a very windy weekend, but our site was nicely blocked from it, so we could just enjoy the sounds from the blowing trees. Great visit!
Recommends
· October 2025
Wonderful time
Shepherds Wagon
Dave’s land was wonderful. There’s lots of cool trails to explore that are well maintained. Our little corner was full of wildlife and right by the river. I can tell Dave puts alot of time and care into his space, and we are so grateful we got to explore it. Dave was a great host and I would recommend this spot to anyone!!
Recommends
· August 2025
Great Experience
The Gothic Pod
My husband and I had a great time at Blackthorn Retreat! Our cabin was very clean and the air conditioner did a good job even though it was quite hot out. We really enjoyed meeting Dave who was extremely hospitable. We also enjoyed exploring the land and the local area.
Recommends
· August 2025
The Gothic Pod
What a wonderfully unique property. Dave was a great host! He's full of useful knowledge. Can't wait to visit again & see how the additions to his vision look.
Recommends
· August 2025
With kids ·
Rock Ridge
My daughter and I stayed this weekend for a last minute little get away and it was perfect. The cabin pods are great for a better night's sleep but also just the right size to encourage still being outdoors most of the time. We explored the trails, the creek, played at the playground, and even pet some kittens that lived on the property. Dave was friendly, more than accommodating and things were in top condition. We will definitely be back!
Recommends
· August 2025
Great Experience
Tent ·
Camp Ash!
Fantastic spot with a lot of character. Dave is a superb host and you can tell he really cares about guests having a great stay. I stayed at Camp Ash and love how tucked away it feels while still being close to amenities. I’ll definitely be back. Side note: if you are on the fence an about ordering firewood, just do it - was super cheap for a generous stack that kept my fire going for hours.
Recommends
· July 2025
18 ft campervan ·
Blackthorn Basecamp
Dave was a wonderful host. I would highly recommend staying here. Nice outdoor shower and porta potty available.
Recommends
· July 2025
Rock Ridge
We had a wonderful weekend and the host was very friendly! The weather showed a chance of rain during our stay and he offered to switch our site to a larger, more rainproof tent. Would recommend for a nice weekend getaway. :)
Recommends
· July 2025
Great place!
Tent ·
Blackthorn Basecamp
Dave has a beautiful set up with various sites. He was most gracious and attentive to my messages and questions.
Mixed feelings
· July 2025
Tent ·
Camp Ash!
If you really want to feel like camping in the woods, this is the place to go. A few mixed feelings of photos and others reviews online of the campsites. Not sure if they were old photos and or if things have since been updated. We ended up walking the trails listed on the map Dave gave us, which was amazing and helpful, but expected it to take us long than about 30 minutes. Did see quite a few new things being added and loved that there was a play area for the kiddos. We did not use the community area that has added benefits nor did we shower at the site but there is one available.
Recommends
· June 2025
Gothic Pod 2
Cool spot with lots to do. Very accommodating. These are just filler words but to be brief, although not too brief of course, we had a good time and will probably go back again.
Recommends
· June 2025
Wonderful camping experience!
With kids ·
The Gothic Pod
This place is AWESOME! Unfortunately, my trip ended up being during this crazy heatwave and we didn't get to enjoy the site as much as we had planned but we will definitely be back! I am NOT an experienced camper but my 7 year old son wanted to do a "mom & me" camp-out so off we went! We stayed in Pod 1. Bed was very comfortable and the A/C works GREAT! Even with the outdoor temp hitting triple digits, we got cooled off nicely inside the pod. Fridge and microwave were so handy too! This property has SO much to offer and the host (Dave) is so friendly and extremely accommodating! He's really committed to providing a great experience for his guests and has poured his heart into this retreat! There's seriously so much to see/do/explore here! The property is still developing and Dave is adding to it with so much planned for the future. I ended up getting hit with heat exhaustion and bad blood sugar fluctuations due to lack of planning on my part and had to spend most of the 2nd day here laying down in the pod unfortunately (came on quick and took me out 🥵) but Dave made my son some hawaiian shaved ice before we turned in and it was really such a kind gesture and i wish I could have has some too. We were sad we had to leave so soon because there was so much more exploring we wanted to do but we're already planning another trip here as a whole family when the weather is better for being outdoors. HIGHLY recommend this property to anyone!
Recommends
· June 2025
The Gothic Pod
Nice pod that provides the basic essentials. Dave is accessible and willing to help with your needs.

Location

Randolph, Riley, Kansas, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Dave C.

Joined in June 2018

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