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Pool Ranch

97%

116 reviews

· Borrego Springs, San Diego, California

30 acres hosted by Julie M.

1 glamping pitch · 2 motorhome/tent pitches · 1 tent pitch

Amazing views

Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.

Pool Ranch is for everyone. It's a place for life. A place where humans and nature are supposed to remember they are interconnected. It's a place for creativity and adventure. Friends, it's also a place to play pool in the desert. Welcome to our 30-acre off-grid homestead, within an international dark sky community and hub for nature-based activities. Step directly from our backyard into Anza Borrego, the largest state park in California. The goal of our ranch is to function as an evolving testing ground for living. Building Pool Ranch prioritizes materials and collaborations that celebrate the abundance of Ranchita, and neighboring rural San Diego communities. We want to actualize the true benefits of community. Our vision is to be an example and invitation for rural communities to create income through environmentally passive, and community centric eco-tourism. Take a peek, and share with us what you discover: https://instagram.com/poolranch

Activities

Biking

Hiking

Off-roading (OHV)

Climbing

Natural features

Desert

Mountainous

Ranch

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Glamping 1 unit

Anza A-Frame

99% (59)

Cabin · Sleeps 2

Reminder: This is a campsite! There are some nice basic amenities available in the A-frame like solar for charging devices, a comfy bed, and optional bedding. Please come prepared for an incredible camping trip. If you are unfamiliar with camping basics, check out the Hipcamp Journal for resources like this Camping Checklist: https://www.hipcamp.com/journal/camping/camping-checklist 😊 Available at your site: Nature in all it's glory - international dark skies - steps to hiking through Anza Borrego State Park trails (please be mindful of, and aware of where the park ends and private properties begin) Available at the property: Outhouse with composting toilet, Shower (add as extra), steps to Anza Borrego State Park. These are communal, shared amenities. Communal amenities available at the property: Trailer with communal kitchen for cooking, small lounge area around wood burning stove on cold nights. Nearby attractions: - Borders Anza Borrego State Park - Palomar observatory - Fishing at Cuyamaca Lake Nearby services: - Montezuma Valley Market (2 mi) - Fire station (5 mi) - Don's market (23 mi) - Mountain service dispensary (20 mi) - Josie's Hideout Saloon (20 mi) Nearby towns: - 15 minute drive to Borrego Springs - 20 minute drive to Santa Isabel - 30 minute drive to Julian - 30 minute drive to Warner Springs - 45 minute drive to Ramona - 1.5 hour drive to San Diego - 2.5 hour drive to Los Angeles Airport For more images and info visit our Instagram @poolranch We are in the process of revitalizing this land bordering the State Park, and kindly ask that you are prepared to pack out what you bring in. We do not provide trash cans, and ask that campers follow the golden rule of the outdoors, leave it better than you found it. Your hosts (Julie or Andy) are often at the property and available if needed. We may cross paths in communal spaces along with other campers. Otherwise, campsites are completely private. 🥾 Special discount for PCT hikers. Mention this in your booking request!

Motorhome/tent pitches 2 units

Instant book

Overlandia Backcountry Group Camp

92% (32)

Motorhome/tent pitch · Sleeps 8

Overlandia is a 2wd accessible area of our property that's undeveloped, and borders Anza Borrego SP (at over 600k acres, Anza Borrego is the largest State Park in California!). This is the most remote part of our property. There is no outhouse or amenities available at this listing other than a picnic table and fire pit. From here, you can't see the homestead, it's just you, mother nature and the State Park is steps away. It's awesome. For more images and info visit our Instagram @poolranch. IMPORTANT: Main camp amenities are not available at this site! This site is great for: - Self-contained vanlifers or experienced backcountry campers who want full privacy, and are familiar with digging cat holes to responsibly go to the bathroom (without access to a bathroom) in the outdoors, and leave no trace. - Groups (2-3 cars) who are looking for a beautiful remote spot to camp and chill for the weekend. Available at your site: - nature in all it's glory - international dark skies - steps to hiking through Anza Borrego State Park trails (please be mindful of, and aware of where the park ends and private properties begin) Nearby attractions: - Borders Anza Borrego State Park - Palomar observatory - Fishing at Cuyamaca Lake Nearby services: - Montezuma Valley Market (2 mi)- Fire station (5 mi)- Don's market (23 mi)- Mountain service dispensary (20 mi)- Josie's Hideout Saloon (20 mi) Nearby towns: - 15 minute drive to Borrego Springs- 20 minute drive to Santa Isabel - 30 minute drive to Julian- 30 minute drive to Warner Springs- 45 minute drive to Ramona- 1.5 hour drive to San Diego - 2.5 hour drive to Los Angeles Airport We are in the process of revitalizing this land bordering the State Park, and kindly ask that you are prepared to pack out what you bring in. We do not provide trash cans, and ask that campers follow the golden rule of the outdoors, leave it better than you found it.

Instant book

Nomadland Overflow Camp

97% (19)

Motorhome/tent pitch · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 19 ft

Place to park yer van and get crusty in the desert 👍 Nomadland is a 2wd accessible area of our property that's undeveloped, and borders Anza Borrego SP (at over 600k acres, Anza Borrego is the largest State Park in California!). This is the most remote part of our property. From here, you can't see the homestead, it's just you, mother nature and the State Park is quite literally, about 10 steps away. It's awesome. For more images and info visit our Instagram @poolranch. IMPORTANT: Main camp amenities are not available at this site! This site is great for: Self-contained vanlifers/car or tent campers who want full privacy, and a cozy, safe space to sleep. There is not a bathroom or shower available at this site. Please come prepared with a shovel, and leave no trace! Available at your site: - nature in all it's glory - international dark skies - steps to hiking through Anza Borrego State Park trails (please be mindful of, and aware of where the park ends and private properties begin) Nearby attractions: - Borders Anza Borrego State Park - Palomar observatory - Fishing at Cuyamaca Lake - Borrego Springs Nearby services: - Montezuma Valley Market (2 mi)- Fire station (5 mi)- Don's market (23 mi)- Mountain service dispensary (20 mi)- Josie's Hideout Saloon (20 mi) Nearby towns: - 15 minute drive to Borrego Springs- 20 minute drive to Santa Isabel - 30 minute drive to Julian- 30 minute drive to Warner Springs- 45 minute drive to Ramona- 1.5 hour drive to San Diego - 2.5 hour drive to Los Angeles Airport We are in the process of revitalizing this land bordering the State Park, and kindly ask that you are prepared to pack out what you bring in. We do not provide trash cans, and ask that campers follow the golden rule of the outdoors, leave it better than you found it.

Tent pitches 1 unit

Instant book

Above Average 10'x6' Tent Platform

100% (27)

Tent pitch · Sleeps 2

Above Average Views is a secluded tent platform near the Pool Ranch main camp. Enjoy sweeping views, a flat perch for your tent, and shelter from the wind. Parking is available about 100ft and out of view and the site has two trails leading to it. There are flat spots on site where you could bring your own cook kit or feel free to use the community kitchen. It's a great option for tent camping in the high desert of Ranchita while still being close to some comforts. You'll be steps away to hike in Anza Borrego State Park (which borders Pool Ranch) and a short drive away from many of the areas attractions. For more images and info visit our Instagram @poolranch. Montezuma Valley Market is 1 mile away and has all you could need for food, supplies, and outdoor gear to support a weekend getaway. Stop in and support our fantastic local market.

Reviews

97% Recommend137 Ratings · 116 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent ·

Above Average 10'x6' Tent Platform

Really wonderful location and kind, respectful hosts. The spot is absolutely beautiful and the site has so much to offer. This is my second time here and will be returning

Rachel H.

2 reviews

Recommends

· June 2024

Anza A-Frame

Julie accommodated our last minute, day of request for a stay. It was our second time, and we absolutely love it. The onsite hosts were so gracious and fun! The A frame is simply perfect. It stays warm at night and cool in the day. And the views are amazing. Highly recommend!

Alexandra P.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2024

Anza A-Frame

The A-Frame was so cute!! Loved everything about it. The communal kitchen area was great, along with all the other amenities. Such a vibe.

Jesse C.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2024

Felt like being epic

Anza A-Frame

The best escape from city life. My husband and two pups had a magical time dancing in the snow, star gazing and epic sunrises from the A frame. A beautiful thing they have good on

Symphony Tran P.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2024

Slice of Peace

Anza A-Frame

Amazing A-Frame within the hidden hills of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. My father and I rode up in motorcycles and it was like akin landscape of a slice of peace. Nothing but praise for this locations and host.

G Z.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2024

The peaceful quiet and views!

12 ft campervan ·

Overlandia Backcountry Group Camp

I loved camping at the overland site at Pool Ranch. The peaceful quiet and views were exquisite! The hosts were great and went beyond by offering any assistance needed. Highly recommended!

Bruce R.

2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2024

Tent ·

Nomadland Overflow Camp

Nice little spot with plenty of privacy. My GF and I were new to camping near Borrego and had a blast. PS - to get to Nomadland, just go past the two big wooden posts as you approach the property. The directions are a bit confusing but would 100% stay again.

Peter F.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2024

Tent ·

Overlandia Backcountry Group Camp

Great spot secluded just outside of anza Borrego - great flat spots for 2 overland rigs. If 3 rigs you might need some levelling blocks for the 3rd parking spot. Hosts were great in relaying the information to get to the site easy. Make sure you preload the map area in your phone. Little reception in the area on t-mobile. They provided some items on site to help us get a fire going quick and easy and enjoy an evening star-gazing. Highly recommend taking the road east to Borrego springs area. Beautiful scenic route.

Lucas S.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2024

Tent ·

Nomadland Overflow Camp

This was a wonderful place to camp! Especially if you’re looking for a private and remote location. Nice fire pit and spacious site. Really close to Anza borrego - overall a 10/10 if you are looking for some time away

Danielle H.

4 reviews

Recommends

· March 2024

Incredible view above Anza

Tent ·

Nomadland Overflow Camp

Amazing view, high in the mountains above Anza borrego (my app said 4,000 ft!) so be prepared for a slight difference in climate. GPS coordinates take you right to the campsite. Probably one of the most incredible views I’ve ever had while camping! I highly recommend and will definitely be back.

Clarissa C.

6 reviews

Recommends

· March 2024

With pets ·

Anza A-Frame

We love camping at Pool Ranch. The A-Frame has the best sunrises!! The hosts (Andy and Julie) are great ... so warm and welcoming!!

Linda P.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2024

16 ft car ·

Nomadland Overflow Camp

Pool Ranch is a beautiful spot! I stayed in nomad land, which was perfect for needing to pull in late and leave early. I definitely want to come back and stay in the A frame with my husband! I picked this spot to land since I camped solo with my dogs before heading all the way into Anza Borrego park. I felt super safe!

Kelly S.

3 reviews

Mixed feelings

· March 2024

20 ft campervan ·

Overlandia Backcountry Group Camp

Beware Extremely windy! Close to anza borrego which I enjoyed. Definitely check out the animal sculptures!

Rachel K.

3 reviews

Not recommend

· March 2024

Tent · Group trip ·

Overlandia Backcountry Group Camp

poor communication and directions on getting too the site but other then that the site was awesome.Very private and Andy was cool.

Marcel L.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· January 2024

Great Site!

Tent ·

Above Average 10'x6' Tent Platform

We had a great time on Julie’s land! She is responsive and clear in her instructions so it made our time even better. Her dog Coral is also adorable! I would recommend double checking the size of your tent beforehand. Our tent was too large to fit on the platform but Julie was very accommodating and let us pitch our tent nearby. I didn’t realize how close we were to the other sites but it still felt private. The kitchen was so much bigger than expected and was super convenient so we didn’t need to bring a stove. Plus it was a great way to cook without the wind and cold! Overall we loved her place and would recommend it !

Amy V.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· November 2023

Tent · With pets ·

Above Average 10'x6' Tent Platform

Great camping spot with amazing views! The location was great for a day trip down to Anza-Borrego and Borrego Spring. Julie was super responsive. Would highly recommend the site.

Adair J.

2 reviews

Recommends

· July 2023

Tent ·

Nomadland Overflow Camp

Julie’s land was the perfect get away for some nature and dessert sunsets near Anza. Communication was clear and easy. Directions were perfect and spot was marked and accessible. Would definitely recommend for a little getaway! Thanks Julie!

Alex H.

4 years on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· July 2023

To become one with nature

Tent ·

Overlandia Backcountry Group Camp

Overall my husband and I enjoyed our one night stay at the Overlandia site and anything negative is no fault of the owner. Pros: The site was nice and flat for the most part, not really any gravel or rocks. There was a picnic table and enclosed fire pit with a grate for optional cooking. It is generally maintained and the directions to the site were incredibly easy as there was ample directions and do’s/don’ts online. The stars were absolutely beautiful and it is relatively private. The owner was also very responsive and answered all my questions. Cons: the nearest grocery store was in Borrego Springs (Center Market) which was actually a very quaint and lovely store that has some camping supplies you may have forgotten and other necessities. The store listed as only being about 2 miles away looked like it was closed for good. There were TONS of bugs so bring some citronella. It was super hot which is to be expected but be prepared and check the weather. And the cowboy tub wasn’t available and the kitchen has “a little critter” in it but both issues were addressed by the owner. The coyotes were very active and I like the sound of them but it certainly made us feel uneasy. We also were nearly attacked by a barn owl 😅

Bailey H.

2 reviews

Recommends

· July 2023

Tent · With pets ·

Above Average 10'x6' Tent Platform

This is a beautiful campsite in the desert. The tent platform is removed from the other sites to offer a lot of privacy, and the stargazing was amazing! No plumbing is available but the composting toilet worked just fine. The kitchen sink has a foot pump and is drinkable. We didn’t take a shower but it looked clean. Would come back.

Kevin H.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2023

Above average views as advertised

Tent ·

Above Average 10'x6' Tent Platform

It’s a nice secluded location with above average views as advertised. I spent the night camping under the stars and it was just what I needed that weekend. There was also a sheltered from the elements kitchen with a daybed one can use in case camping outside is too painful. Definitely recommend.

Tharak K.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2023

Tent ·

Nomadland Overflow Camp

Beautiful campsite for a little getaway. Just isolated enough to really enjoy nature but not too far from towns and gas stations. Loved the cool campfire LED lanterns to light the road and very helpful service from the owners .

Tyler J.

2 years on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· June 2023

Great views but could be improved

Tent · With pets ·

Overlandia Backcountry Group Camp

Overall this place had great views. However our camp spot had some left over boxes and charcoal bags, as well as an old sink cabinet right next to the fire ring. We arrived at night and the trails and camp sites were not labeled well to know we were in the correct spot but managed. Appreciate them sharing the land just a couple things to improve to make it better and easier.

Kassondra F.

4 reviews

Recommends

· June 2023

Beautiful high desert camping

16 ft car ·

Nomadland Overflow Camp

Really an amazing campsite. The sites are spread out enough for each groups privacy and every site has an amazing view. We were there early June and it was perfect weather, a little wind, but amazing start gazing. Very easy to find and easy to get to, great communication, highly recommend it!

Liam M.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2023

Tent ·

Overlandia Backcountry Group Camp

The views were super pretty and it was a small, quaint spot. Enough room for our Jeep, a nice campfire, and my tent.

Alex M.

2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2023

Tent ·

Nomadland Overflow Camp

Julie was most responsive and helpful including a head's up about a meteor shower. The site was quiet, isolated, tidy and easy to find.

Richard C.

2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2023

Tent ·

Overlandia Backcountry Group Camp

Was a cool spot. I stayed at the wrong location though. Theres two spots in the road you take in and I think the directions said pull off when you see Hipcamp so I pulled off at the first one only to realize later there was another one down the road. Little windy for tent but sick little spot close to SD and out of the heat of Anza.

Carson G.

2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2023

Tent · With kids ·

Overlandia Backcountry Group Camp

Great time with us and our 2 boys. Secluded and quiet. Stars were awesome.

Kurt G.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2023

Tent ·

Nomadland Overflow Camp

Loved the site! Easy, quick drive from Anaya Borrego Park & loved how private the spot felt even though it was just about five minutes from the main road.

Keely B.

2 years on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· April 2023

16 ft car ·

Nomadland Overflow Camp

I was arriving late, but the hosts were great with providing directions to the site and letting me know they were available if I had any questions. The site was beautiful looking over the property and right next to the park. The only thing that would have been helpful is a map to the compostable toilet the the site had access to. Luckily we had our own portable camping toilet with us.

Sarah B.

3 reviews

Recommends

· April 2023

Spring in the desert

Tent ·

Overlandia Backcountry Group Camp

Second time staying at Pool Ranch! This campsite felt really private, but was close enough to go up and use the kitchen if we needed it. The sunsets and stargazing are gorgeous and lots of blooms right now! We heard the coyotes and other critters around, but no one bothering us.