More photographs of the grovePhoto 1 of 6 of Walden Ranch
The campsite had a BBQ that was perfect for grilling up some cornLots o sweet dawgs

Walden Ranch

Hosted by Alan · Linden, California
2 sites · RV, Tent · 300 acres
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Best tent campsites in the US
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2025.
Best Hipcamps in California
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2025.
Amazing views
Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Walden Ranch began with the purchase of a neighboring 20 acres. Couple that with the inspiration of Thoreau's lines and life at the real Walden Pond, the ranch has grown to nearly 300 acres and the small ranch pond has grown to a 5-acre lake with a 3-acre forest and home. Scouts, family and church groups use the site for gatherings. Available are canoes, bonfire, and exploring the ranch's 300-head cattle, llamas, poultry and wildlife. Fires always allowed at fire ring. You are welcome to bring your own wood. Pitch your tent in a forest setting alongside a lake on a working cattle ranch. Watch wildlife or hike to smaller lakes on the ranch. Other animals include dogs, llamas, geese, chickens, and horses. The dogs may visit your campsite and have free roam of many parts of the property. The ranch is within a 20 minute drive to either Stockton or Lodi, CA and is surrounded by vineyards, orchards and pastures. Outdoor flush toilets, sink, tables and fire ring available. Forested area is set amidst grazing lands. This "Walden" even has willow trees slipped from a tree near Thoreau's cabin near Walden Pond, MA. Owner looks forward to sharing this peaceful, special spot!

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RV/tent sites (dispersed)

2 sites

Walden Ranch Camping

98%
(1029)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 6
Pitch your tent in a forest setting alongside a lake on a working cattle ranch. Watch wildlife. Hike to smaller lakes on the ranch. Other animals include dogs, llamas, geese, chickens, and horses. The dogs may visit your campsite and have free roam of many parts of the property. The ranch is within a 20 minute drive to either Stockton or Lodi, CA and is surrounded by vineyards, orchards and pastures.  Outdoor flush toilets, sink, tables and fire ring available. Forested area is set amidst grazing lands.  This "Walden" even has willow trees slipped from Walden Pond, MA. Owner looks forward to sharing this peaceful, special spot! 
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
Showers

Reviews

98%· 1K reviews

Themes

  • Review summary

    Generated from real Hipcamper reviews

    Walden Ranch offers a camping experience that resonates with families and animal lovers alike. Campers enjoy the opportunity to interact with a variety of farm animals, including llamas, donkeys, and a friendly pack of dogs. Host Alan is frequently highlighted for his warm hospitality and willingness to share the joys of ranch life, from tractor rides to animal feeding. While the amenities are basic, the scenic views and laid-back atmosphere provide an ideal escape for those looking to reconnect with nature.

  • Adam C.

    Tent camped, Oct 2026.

    Recommends

    Hay ride and feeding the livestock was a highlight

  • Joy W.

    Camped in a 19 ft truck camper with pets, Oct 2026.

    It was okay

    Walden Ranch has many features fun for kids - canoeing, farm animals, and the invitation for our family to help feed the cattle via the hay wagon. The large pond is a good place for birdwatching. It appears the farming life does not leave time and energy to maintain the whole camping area. Though the resident dogs were friendly, our dog was taken aback with them all coming out at once. The bathroom was clean with flush toilets. The owner and the others we met were very nice and the feeding of the cattle was a highlight as well as the newborn llama. Overall, we enjoyed our stay and the location was good for our itinerary.

  • Reuben D.

    Tent camped, Oct 2026.

    Recommends

    We had fun making friends with the llamas and donkeys and just relaxing in a place that felt like a nature preserve. Amazing value and amazing destination; I hope to get a chance to visit again. Alan came by with his dog pals Red and Sparky late in the afternoon and they made sure we had everything we needed, big thanks to him for providing such a nice place for my family to get out of the city and relax for one night on a Saturday. No pictures to share, I was too busy enjoying it that I didn't want to touch my phone at all, I recommend go check it out and do the same.

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Amenities

  • Fire pitsFirepit, Communal
  • Flush toilets
  • Potable waterSpigot, Tap
  • ShowersCold water only
  • Picnic tables
  • Trash disposalTrash bin
  • No electricity hookup
  • No water hookup
  • No wifi
  • No laundry
  • No cooking equipment
  • No hot tub
  • No playground

Things to know

  • Drive-inPark at your site. Wheelchair accessible.
  • Pet-friendlyOff leash.
  • Campfires allowedAlways review local fire regulations before enjoying a campfire.
  • Check-in processYou'll head straight to your site upon arrival.
  • Cancellation policyFull refund anytime before check in time starts.
  • Check-in and check-outCheck-in at 12pm. Check-out at 12pm.
  • Booking windowSame-day bookings welcome, up to 12 months ahead.

Location

Linden, San Joaquin, California, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking

Your Host

Alan H.Joined June 2019

Frequently asked questions

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