Does Fortress of Love Homestead have toilets?

Yes — toilets are available at Fortress of Love Homestead. An exterior composting toilet is available, and has a hydrant to wash hands nearby.

Is drinking water available at Fortress of Love Homestead?

Yes — potable water is available at Fortress of Love Homestead. The water is from a well and tastes good to us. We can also provide water from the house that has been through a reverse-osmosis filter system.

Does Fortress of Love Homestead have picnic tables?

Yes — picnic tables are available at Fortress of Love Homestead.

How do you get to the site at Fortress of Love Homestead?

2WD accessible. Park at your site. Wheelchair accessible.

Are pets allowed at Fortress of Love Homestead?

No — pets are not allowed at Fortress of Love Homestead.

Are campfires allowed at Fortress of Love Homestead?

Yes — campfires are allowed at Fortress of Love Homestead. Always review local fire regulations before enjoying a campfire.

What is the check-in process at Fortress of Love Homestead?

You'll head straight to your site upon arrival.

What is the cancellation policy at Fortress of Love Homestead?

Full refund 3 days before check in time starts.

What time is check-in and check-out at Fortress of Love Homestead?

Check-in at 2pm. Check-out at 12pm. Flexible check-in available.

How far in advance can you book at Fortress of Love Homestead?

Same-day bookings welcome, up to 6 months ahead.

Does Fortress of Love Homestead have showers?

No — no showers at Fortress of Love Homestead.

Does Fortress of Love Homestead have cooking equipment?

No — no cooking equipment at Fortress of Love Homestead.

Does Fortress of Love Homestead have wifi?

No — no wifi at Fortress of Love Homestead.

Does Fortress of Love Homestead have trash disposal?

No — no trash disposal at Fortress of Love Homestead. We recommend you pack out whatever you bring. If needed we can provide a trash bag on request. All trash must be cleaned up when leaving camp site. We have a compost pile for food waste.

Self serve firewood hut provides easy access to quality seasoned hardwood. Each cubby is $10, so you can choose

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Our new favorite extra is the farm fresh breakfast.

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Fortress of Love Homestead

Hosted by Doug · Chelsea, Michigan

10 guests max

98%

182 reviews

Amazing views

Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.

Fortress of Love homestead, previously Long Haul Farm, is rebuilding to be a functioning homestead in Chelsea, MI dedicated to sustainably growing plants, family, community, and soil biology for generations, the long haul! --- 2026 update ---- We are no longer doing any flower growing like we did before, as life has taken us to work outside of our own space. However, we've shifted to more stewardship on our property and the adjacent preserve. We'd love to guide you on a hike and teach about the local ecology, flora, and fauna too! The goats and chickens continue to provide joyful entertainment as well. --- AN OFFERING --- Acknowledging that this land was unceded by the people who previously occupied it, we're offering that anyone with indigenous ancestry can stay for reduced rates, just message us and ask! -------- History -------- Growing up, I used to come here to visit my great-aunt & uncle's horse ranch. My great uncle grew up visiting his great uncle who was one of the first in our family on this land. They were animal and nature lovers, and in their retirement, sold 130 acres to The Nature Conservancy, all of which is now protected as a county nature preserve. Unfortunately, 11 years ago, my great-uncle and aunt had passed, and we had to sell the family land. Serendipitously, as we were looking for a farm homestead to move to, we reconnected with the owners of the land, and they were just deciding to sell it. My family was able to buy back the family land and continue the legacy. -------- Onwards ---- We hoping to develop a permaculture inspired homestead, planting an orchard and keep chickens and pigs. We love living here surrounded by extensive state and county parks and recreation land, while still being close enough to Chelsea and Ann Arbor for all that they provide. Our aim is to create a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable atmosphere for our visitors. We hope to provide a refuge in nature and perhaps even some education of flowers or wildlife. Join us in carrying on the legacy of family land stewardship and love for natural spaces! - Doug (he/him/his) & & Phoebe (5yr old - She/they TBD)2024 UPDATE: With our 3 year old and two jobs, we've put our flower farm on hold, and so we don't have many flowers growing this season, so we want to give an accurate expectation for our Flower Farm. We are also putting our farm breakfasts offering on hold given our limited capacity. There are plenty of great hikes and activities nearby still that we're happy to recommend. Thanks to all the campers from 2020 who voted us the 2nd best in Michigan to visit in 2021! Hope to see you back! -----New to HipCamp? Copy/Paste this link and get https://www.hipcamp.com/i/flowerfarm -------- About the Space -------- Our property is a cozy 4.5 acre flower farm atop a beautiful vista surrounded by hundres of acres of contiguous nature preserves, county parks, and state game area. We have 3 friendly pygmy goats and 15 roamin' chickens. Please let us know if you intend to bring dogs. -------- About the Campsite -------- This camp is out of sight of any houses or roads. While it doesn't have all the views of our HillTop site, it is much more secluded and shaded. It includes a firepit and close to the composting toilet and water. There’s ample space to park a vehicle near your spot, including for pop-up campers or RVs. We don't have shore power, but we do have an extension cord that will reach. Please indicate if you have a large or many vehicles. See our other listing for the Hilltop site. -------- Breakfast -------- We sometimes can offer our homecookin' breakfast of our own chicken eggs, locally made bread toast, local organic greens, and organic coffee/tea. Avocado, bananas or other fruit included depending what we have at the moment. We ask a sliding scale donation of $8-14 for the breakfast, and that you let us know ahead of time if you are interested. -------- Amenities -------- Water is available via a hydrant that pumps from well water, we like the taste. There is a rustic dry composting toilet for your solid wastes. We have electric in the barn if needed. We have internet in the house, but only available to campers by special request. -------- Social Atmosphere -------- We’ll often be out working in the flower farm, taking our dogs for walks, and may be hosting other campers, so expect to have some socializing around the farm. We love to hear your stories and share ours. Anyone looking to rent the whole space exclusively for more privacy, can do so for an extra charge at a first come first serve basis. Must be requested in advance! -------- Adventure Awaits -------- HIKERS, TRAIL RUNNERS, & NATURE ENTHUSIASTS: It's a short walk to amazing remote natural area for wildlife viewing, a quarter mile to the middle of 38 mile Pinckney-Waterloo trail system that connects the two huge recreation areas with abundant hiking and nature viewing. MOUNTAIN BICYCLISTS: We are 1 mile from the very popular mountain biking DTE Energy Foundation Trail. We are 6 miles north of downtown Chelsea, MI with the majority of the route including the B2B multi-use trail system. PADDLERS & HORSE ENTHUSIASTS: We sit smack-dab in the middle of both the Waterloo and Pinckney Recreation Areas, which offer some amazing spots to paddle, swim, and ride horses, among many other activities. MOTORCYCLISTS: We're along North Territorial Road, a popular scenic motorcycling route, and only 10 minutes from a golf course. Our neighbors are few and secluded. And we have a couple wonderfully friendly dogs. DISC GOLFERS: We are a ten minute drive to Hudson Mills Metropark, which boasts two amazing 24 hole courses. Additionally, we’re 25 minutes from Independence Lake County Park, the local favorite with 18 holes. Lastly, about 30 minute drive will get you to Bandemer, a chill course near the Huron River in Ann Arbor. -------- Words of Caution -------- POISONOUS PLANTS AND BUGS! We do have lots of poison ivy, stinging nettle, ticks, horse flies, and mosquitos. The hiking nearby isn’t always a mowed trail, so come prepared with long pants, tall socks and hiking boots if you want to explore the preserve. We’re glad to show you what to look for if you’re unfamiliar, they are all easy to avoid with the right precautions. Please use Hipcamp messages to contact us about camping, not facebook. To inquire about camping availability, make a request so we can review and approve.

Rig suitability

Vehicles under 40 feet allowed

Allowed rigs: class B RVs, campervans, cars, truck campers, and rooftop tents

Pull-in site

Accommodates slideouts

Surface type: Grass or field

Surface levelness: Flat

There is concrete in the barn, and it is level. Although I need advance notice if you want to park in the barn. Otherwise there is a large level grassy area.

No class A RVs, class C RVs, pop-up campers, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers

Electrical hookup available

We have electricity in the barn, but would need advance notice if you need this.

No water hookup

There are some groundwater hydrants with hoses. I can't guarantee water hookup/hose in winter, but can provide it from the house if needed.

No sewage hookup

No TV hookup

Generators not allowed

What to expect

RV/tent site

You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 2:00 PM

Early or late check-in may be available

Check out: Before 12:00 PM

On arrival: Head straight to site

Cancellation policy:

Minimum nights: 1 night

Accepts bookings: 6 months out

Park at listing

Wheelchair access

Max 2 vehicles

2WD accessible

During your trip

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

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RV/tent sites

1 site

Shady Corner Camp - Tents & Campers

97%

(117)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 10 · Vehicles under 40 ft

2024 UPDATE: With our 3 year old and two jobs, we've put our flower farm on hold, and so we don't have many flowers growing this season, so we want to give an accurate expectation for our Flower Farm. We are also putting our farm breakfasts offering on hold given our limited capacity. There are plenty of great hikes and activities nearby still that we're happy to recommend. Thanks to all the campers from 2020 who voted us the 2nd best in Michigan to visit in 2021! Hope to see you back! -----New to HipCamp? Copy/Paste this link and get https://www.hipcamp.com/i/flowerfarm -------- About the Space -------- Our property is a cozy 4.5 acre flower farm atop a beautiful vista surrounded by hundres of acres of contiguous nature preserves, county parks, and state game area. We have 3 friendly pygmy goats and 15 roamin' chickens. Please let us know if you intend to bring dogs. -------- About the Campsite -------- This camp is out of sight of any houses or roads. While it doesn't have all the views of our HillTop site, it is much more secluded and shaded. It includes a firepit and close to the composting toilet and water. There’s ample space to park a vehicle near your spot, including for pop-up campers or RVs. We don't have shore power, but we do have an extension cord that will reach. Please indicate if you have a large or many vehicles. See our other listing for the Hilltop site. -------- Breakfast -------- We sometimes can offer our homecookin' breakfast of our own chicken eggs, locally made bread toast, local organic greens, and organic coffee/tea. Avocado, bananas or other fruit included depending what we have at the moment. We ask a sliding scale donation of $8-14 for the breakfast, and that you let us know ahead of time if you are interested. -------- Amenities -------- Water is available via a hydrant that pumps from well water, we like the taste. There is a rustic dry composting toilet for your solid wastes. We have electric in the barn if needed. We have internet in the house, but only available to campers by special request. -------- Social Atmosphere -------- We’ll often be out working in the flower farm, taking our dogs for walks, and may be hosting other campers, so expect to have some socializing around the farm. We love to hear your stories and share ours. Anyone looking to rent the whole space exclusively for more privacy, can do so for an extra charge at a first come first serve basis. Must be requested in advance! -------- Adventure Awaits -------- HIKERS, TRAIL RUNNERS, & NATURE ENTHUSIASTS: It's a short walk to amazing remote natural area for wildlife viewing, a quarter mile to the middle of 38 mile Pinckney-Waterloo trail system that connects the two huge recreation areas with abundant hiking and nature viewing. MOUNTAIN BICYCLISTS: We are 1 mile from the very popular mountain biking DTE Energy Foundation Trail. We are 6 miles north of downtown Chelsea, MI with the majority of the route including the B2B multi-use trail system. PADDLERS & HORSE ENTHUSIASTS: We sit smack-dab in the middle of both the Waterloo and Pinckney Recreation Areas, which offer some amazing spots to paddle, swim, and ride horses, among many other activities. MOTORCYCLISTS: We're along North Territorial Road, a popular scenic motorcycling route, and only 10 minutes from a golf course. Our neighbors are few and secluded. And we have a couple wonderfully friendly dogs. DISC GOLFERS: We are a ten minute drive to Hudson Mills Metropark, which boasts two amazing 24 hole courses. Additionally, we’re 25 minutes from Independence Lake County Park, the local favorite with 18 holes. Lastly, about 30 minute drive will get you to Bandemer, a chill course near the Huron River in Ann Arbor. -------- Words of Caution -------- POISONOUS PLANTS AND BUGS! We do have lots of poison ivy, stinging nettle, ticks, horse flies, and mosquitos. The hiking nearby isn’t always a mowed trail, so come prepared with long pants, tall socks and hiking boots if you want to explore the preserve. We’re glad to show you what to look for if you’re unfamiliar, they are all easy to avoid with the right precautions. Please use Hipcamp messages to contact us about camping, not facebook. To inquire about camping availability, make a request so we can review and approve.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

Electrical hookup

No water hookup

Reviews

98%· 222 reviews

Themes

Review summary
Generated from real Hipcamper reviews
Doug's campsite offers a peaceful and secluded escape, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat surrounded by nature. Campers consistently praise the friendly hosts and their thoughtful amenities, such as a fire pit and picnic table, which enhance the camping experience. The presence of friendly goats and chickens adds to the charm of the place, making it a memorable spot for families and animal lovers. However, some campers noted issues with the compost toilet and occasional bug concerns, which might require some attention.
Nick B.
Tent camped with friends, Oct 2025.
Recommends
Doug was very welcoming and helpful. Beautiful plot of land with a private area for camp.
Grayson H.
Tent camped with friends, Oct 2025.
Recommends
We loved our stay on Doug’s land!! Such a fun getaway, we had a blast! Very quirky place with amazing views and plenty of space:)
Christian Paul F.
Tent camped with pets, Sept 2025.
Recommends
Great place for camping with a family. Secluded area right next to a nice walking trail through county-kept grounds. The host was accommodating and very welcoming.

Amenities

Fire pitsPrivate fire pit · Firepit, Communal
Flush toilets
Potable waterSpigot, Hose, Pump or well, Bottled water or jugs
Picnic tables
Electricity hookup
No showers
No water hookup
No wifi
No laundry
No trash disposal
No cooking equipment
No hot tub
No playground

Things to know

2WD accessiblePark at your site. Wheelchair accessible.
No pets allowedPets can't join this trip.
Campfires allowedAlways review local fire regulations before enjoying a campfire.
Check-in processYou'll head straight to your site upon arrival.
Cancellation policyFull refund 3 days before check in time starts.
Check-in and check-outCheck-in at 2pm. Check-out at 12pm. Flexible check-in available.
Booking windowSame-day bookings welcome, up to 6 months ahead.

Extras

Goats and Chickens Walkabout$10.00 per itemTime with the animals is a favorite for many campers. Anyone is welcome to visit and feed them through the fence. If you want some hands on time, we'll join and you can take them for a walk and get close and personal. Flat fee for 1-10 people for about 30 minutes. --------- Goats --------- The goats love to go for walks and you can join! They are friendly and like a good scratchin' while they devour some greens around the property. You can lead them by the leash or try your skills at herding them around. --------- Chickens --------- You and yours can have the joy of being chased by 14 chickens and feed them. A few are comfortable to be picked up for those brave ones looking for that special photo op. Our schedules may be limited, so let us know ahead. Cash payment in person is totally welcome.
Eggs (dozen)$5.00 per itemTake home a dozen eggs from our free range organic chickens. Availability depends on how the hens are laying, please just ask if you are interested.