- Camping with climbing
The best camping in California with climbing
95% (28.8K) • 1,547 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in California
Splitrock Farm and Retreat
1. Splitrock Farm and Retreat
96%
(1630)
Fallbrook, CA · 73 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
About Splitrock Farm and Retreat
Far Away, Close to Home
Instagram page @splitrockfarmandretreat. Tag your photos #splitrockfarmandretreat #SplitrockFAR #farawayclosetohome
Or, contact the Camp Host through Hipcamp direct message or the direct line 760-645-5431.
Splitrock Farm and Retreat started in January 2021 after a global search of a place to set roots, live off the land, and create an amazing place for recreation, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
Splitrock was part of a 160-acre avocado farm that prospered from 1970 to 2017, generating over 1million pounds of avocados per year until the previous owners switched off the water in 2017. Ben purchased 101 acres in 2021 with plans to harvest the dead avocado trees for firewood and replant with organic, sustainable crops such as grapes, citrus trees, and flowers.
Splitrock's attraction comes from its unique groves, magnificent granite boulders, and sweeping vistas. Mixed within the avocado groves are several ancient groves and solitary trees that include 150+ foot tall pines, hundreds of old oaks, and soaring palms. Freckled throughout the hillsides are thousands of humongous granite boulders, offering a prehistoric feel to the landscape. Above all, Splitrock offers unrivaled views. Over 40 miles of coastline includes views to Point Loma, the Carlsbad power station, and the Pendleton Hospital. To the northeast are views of near 11K foot snowy peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio, with rolling hills of De Luz and Fallbrook in the foreground.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$22
/ night
Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch
2. Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch
93%
(1289)
Palomar Mountain, CA · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This land has been a community gathering space for the Native's Ceremony and Healing Space for over a thousand years. Feast your eyes upon the Matates and traces of the people that once gathered here so long ago.Upon the mid 1800's we had a Settler named Nate Harrison find this to be the ideal space, and he set up homestead here, and lived an amazing full life. He was to become the first African American to aquire land here in San Diego County, and his homestead remains to this day; studied by archaeology students to this day.Sensitive habitat and magic lies within our gates, and we must approach the mountain as we would any sacred space; with RESPECT.We welcome you to enjoy Nate's land and inspire who you are deep inside your heart.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$59
/ night
dabudage Big Sur
3. dabudage Big Sur
95%
(733)
CA · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging
⭐DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. 🌈🌊***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. ⭐
Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes a 15% cut.
Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage.
*We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site.
There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity.
There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers.
A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come.
Children are welcome.
Dogs are welcome off-leash.
Alcohol is discouraged.
No electronic music devices.
Fires in designated pits only.
Pack out trash.
TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from.
*YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED
Requests are usually checked once daily.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$90
/ night
Tahoe National Forest
4. Tahoe National Forest
93%
(255)
National forest in California · 1382 sites
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Inyo National Forest
5. Inyo National Forest
96%
(453)
National forest in California · 2001 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Beachfront Retreat on Sea of Cortez
6. Beachfront Retreat on Sea of Cortez
100%
(1)
1 site
Beachfront Home Offers Spectacular Panorama from Veranda and Huge Living/Dining Room. Enjoy Total Relaxation.
2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths. Popular North End of Town, 5 Miles from Downtown San Felipe. Our Beach Is Virtually Private.
——-
As you can see, the setting of this home is out of a dream. Of all the world's oceans, Jacques Cousteau favored the Sea of Cortez, calling it "The Aquarium of the World." His favorite body of water is the panorama you'll enjoy through two walls of glass in this expansive home.
Stunning views...empty white-sand beaches...ultra-clear skies. And the only sounds you're likely to hear are the gentle surf and ocean breezes.
There's really no other place like Baja California. This land has changed little since Fernando Cortés first saw it in 1533. And dawn over the sea begins each day in spectacular fashion.
Our huge front room combines living, dining, and kitchen into one 700-square-foot space, with four sets of doors which open to a broad Spanish-style veranda. Spend the day reading in lounge chairs, mixing a drink or two at the hand-carved bar, or walking on miles of secluded beach.
The kitchen area offers 20 feet of counter space, while a massive wooden dining table easily accommodates your entire group for memorable meals.
Each of the spacious bedrooms features one large bed, while the two bathrooms feature large showers. If you want to bring an airbed, there’s plenty of space in the living room.
The town of San Felipe is completely safe and friendly -- and unlike a Cabo or Cancun, it offers an *authentic* Mexico experience.
(If anyone in your group has concerns about Baja, search the following for a great Lonely Planet article: "Are Americans Safer in Mexico than at Home?")
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ESSENTIAL READING:
Baja is all about nature and freedom. The houses range from humble one-room shacks to desert palaces. As you can see in the photos, our home is nicer than average, yet still simple and casual. It's a true Baja beach house -- not a designer bungalow on Nantucket.
San Felipe doesn't offer the manicured beach resorts that you find in Hawaii or Cabo. This is a more traditional place to be.
In short, we'd say that if you're the kind of person who would never go camping, this probably is not the ideal spot for you. We encourage everyone to scan a half-dozen reviews, to get the full range of guest reactions.
Please note that this house has electric service, with a rooftop tank holding mountain spring water, plus propane for the stove and water heater.
If you require a concierge to manage your holidays, or can't stand dust from the desert, you may want to consider another destination. This is a place for hearty living -- a place Steinbeck would have loved.
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It takes only 5 to 10 minutes to travel from this isolated beachfront retreat to all the shopping, restaurants, nightclubs, and other attractions of North San Felipe and the Malecon.
Dining options range from casual to fine. Regardless of which you choose, you'll love the freshness, taste, and purity of San Felipe's seafood-focused cuisine. (Arid Baja has none of the "issues" of mainland Mexico.)
At your doorstep await unforgettable wilderness adventures, in untouched desert backcountry where mountains soar 10,000 feet over huge dry lakes.
The Sea of Cortez (also known as the Mar de Cortés and Vermilion Sea) offers kayaking, kitesurfing, windsurfing, boating, fishing, and more.
And after sunset, clear air and virtually no ambient light ensure some of the finest skies left on this planet.
All just a 5 1/2-hour drive from Los Angeles...4 hours from San Diego.
++++++++++++++++++++++++
Additional Notes:
* Mapping for Mexico is a bit difficult. You can enter "San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico" in the most popular mapping program, zoom out till you see El Dorado Ranch and Playa Hawaii north of San Felipe. Our home overlooks the beach in this area.
* Biologically speaking, the Sea of Cortez is the richest body of water on the planet. This diverse sea supports more than 900 varieties of fish, and more than 2,000 species of marine invertebrates.
* Spring water is trucked in, and stored in a 1,000-gallon tank. The first tanks of water and propane are included. If a water refill is required, you pay the $50. The cost of a propane refill is about $20.
* There is no landline phone, but we do have wifi, and most cell phones work.
* Note that Baja can be HOT, especially from mid-June through the end of August. In Summer, typical temperatures are high 90s or low 100s during the day, and 70s to 80s at night.
* Pets are welcome.
* Please smoke on the veranda — never inside.
* Sheets are provided for the three beds. You should bring bath and beach towels, as well as your favorite toiletries.
* Kitchenware is provided, but if you're particular, you may want to bring your favorite gear.
* There’s a small tabletop BBQ grill, and a big old one.
* A 600-square-foot garage with RV doors may be available at extra cost with advance arrangements -- but there's plenty of easy parking outdoors on approx. 1 1/2 acres.
* If you have kids, please note that the bluff in front of the house is about 30 feet above the beach.
* The closest path to the beach is in the arroyo just south of the house. There is also another road to the beach which begins about 150 feet above the entrance to the property. The beach itself is fine sand, and deep in places. Motorcycles and ATVs are welcome. For four-wheeled vehicles, 4WD is essential.
* Kayaks and other small watercraft can be launched easily from the beach. Kitesurfing is popular. Be aware of the tides! The Gulf of California has one of the largest tidal ranges in the world, and at low tide, the ocean recedes far from the beach for a few hours.
* PWCs and boats on trailers can also be launched from the beach. A 4WD tow vehicle is essential. Again, be aware of the tides.
* There is a wood-burning fireplace.
* There are large supermarkets in central San Felipe (such as Calimax, on the main drag). You can get fresh food and everything else you might need at reasonable prices.
* Wheelchair access to the home is fairly easy. The showers are very large, but otherwise of standard design.
* There can be dogs roaming free, but we've never seen an aggressive one. You may also encounter a mosquito or two, little desert critters, etc.
* Snowbird? Looking for a long-term retreat? Low rates are available to quality candidates.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$119
/ night
Campo Nopalito
7. Campo Nopalito
99%
(609)
Valley Center, CA · 7 sites
Welcome to Nopalito Farm! We’re so happy you’ve decided to spend some time on this beautiful property! In case you’re interested, here are a few interesting things about our farm.
Nopalito Farm has been in operation since late 2014, but the property itself has been a working farm for over 50 years. Lemons and avocados were the primary crops from the 70’s through the 00’s, and are still prominent throughout our 15 acres. Our predecessors then diversified the growing operation by planting a wide range of fruit trees ranging from guavas and passion fruit to peaches and figs. For a decade, hops were grown on 2 acres and were sold to breweries throughout southern California. We’ve since replaced the hop yard with perennial flowers, but continue to cultivate a wide variety of delicious fruits.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$94
/ night
Salmon Creek Ranch
8. Salmon Creek Ranch
97%
(3546)
Bodega Bay, CA · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located within 45 minutes of the wine country and 2 miles from the coast, our property is 400 acres of rolling hills and redwood groves, with a creek running along its base. With miles of trails meandering through quiet woods and meadows, you will be able to revel in the tranquility of a private preserve, without sacrificing easy access to some of Sonoma County's most famous attractions. A hundred years ago, this land was used to graze sheep. Remnants of the old fence lines can still be seen in places, along with old cement troughs. Since then, the land has been left to its own devices, passing through many hands, most famously owned by two brothers in the 1980's who built a truly amazing tree house in the forest which has been featured in several magazine articles. It was revamped and updated in 2016 by a master craftsman, using fallen redwood logs found on the property and is now a unique structural work of art, available for overnight stays. We produce 100% grass fed, dry-aged beef on our certified organic pastures and have a store on site if you would like to purchase delicious steaks, ribs, ground beef for hamburgers or some roasts to take home. Our cattle graze on the native grasses, never grain, and drink only water produced from our own springs. We also raise Kiko meat goats and produce pastured, certified organic duck eggs on a commercial basis. Whether it's surfing at sandy beaches, award-winning clam chowder, a wine tour, horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride you're after, you won't have far to drive if you make our ranch your base camp. You may see a family of deer appear suddenly, or a few Scottish Highland cows which we allow to roam freely over the property. There are over twenty species of wild birds that grace this protected spot, so bring your binoculars! A portion of your fee goes towards protecting native flora and fauna as part of our private wildlife preservation program. A limited number of private, widely spaced camp spots are available for visitors. The Eagles' Nest Treehouse (mentioned above) is very isolated and you may or may not even be aware that there are other people within miles of you. For those who value nature, seclusion, quiet and the artistry of old growth redwood, this is the place for you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$120
/ night
The Castle House: Estate
9. The Castle House: Estate
95%
(893)
Joshua Tree, CA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Units designed to make the everyday extraordinary.
Step into a realm where luxury meets rugged beauty at The Castle House: Estate, your gateway to the ULTIMATE "GLAMPING" experience! As seen on HGTV, our tiny home oasis in Joshua Tree redefines accommodation with a unique medieval twist, seamlessly blending indoor-outdoor living and exceptional entertainment. Nestled in the heart of Joshua Tree and just minutes away from the awe-inspiring Joshua Tree National Park, The Castle House: Estate stands as a testament to opulence in the desert.
Set on 12 picturesque acres, surrounded by vast private undeveloped land, our estate offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility and exclusivity. Experience a stay like no other in our award-winning haven, recognized with The BNB's prestigious Traveler Best Reviewed Property.
But the enchantment doesn't end there—immerse yourself in the rejuvenating embrace of our tiered hexagonal aqua blue cowboy pool, strategically placed on a stunning IPE wood deck. This artistic oasis is a visual masterpiece, inviting you to bask in the sun or stargaze by night. Indulge in the luxury of our room service, available until midnight, offering a curated selection of local fare to tantalize your taste buds. At The Castle House: Estate, we redefine glamping by marrying comfort and adventure, creating an unforgettable escape that transcends the ordinary. Elevate your stay, reinvent yourself, and make memories that last a lifetime at The Castle House: Estate—where every moment is a masterpiece waiting to unfold. Book your extraordinary desert retreat now and be a part of an experience that's truly fit for royalty!Campers will be required to complete a check-in waiver before the date of their stay - providing a valid ID, DOB, and address.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$66
/ night
Shasta-Trinity National Forest
10. Shasta-Trinity National Forest
93%
(137)
National forest in California · 912 sites
California’s largest national forest offers year-round outdoor adventures and diverse camping options.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sierra National Forest
11. Sierra National Forest
92%
(176)
National forest in California · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
San Bernardino National Forest
12. San Bernardino National Forest
94%
(151)
National forest in California · 863 sites
Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sequoia National Forest
13. Sequoia National Forest
98%
(271)
National forest in California · 905 sites
Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Yosemite Westlake Camp
14. Yosemite Westlake Camp
88%
(646)
Coulterville, CA · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located on the John Muir Historic route to Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Westlake Campground and RV Park is convenient to all things Yosemite.
Between here and the park is Rainbow Pool, a well-known swimming hole that campers here often visit on their way back to the campground for a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
Coulterville was started as a gold-rush town. You can visit the museum and visitor center even try your hand at panning for gold.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$51
/ night
Yosemite Colfax Spring
15. Yosemite Colfax Spring
98%
(983)
Groveland, CA · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Your Basecamp for Yosemite Adventure 🌲⛰
Just 15–20 minutes from the entrance of Yosemite National Park and about an hour from the Yosemite Valley floor, our camp offers the perfect location to recharge after exploring one of the most iconic natural landscapes on Earth. We’re also about 1.5 hours from the high-country beauty of Tuolumne Meadows, making this a great launchpad for day trips in every direction.
Perched in the scenic Sierra foothills, our dry camping sites are celebrated for breathtaking panoramic views, open skies, and unforgettable sunrises and starry nights. It’s an ideal place to unwind, reconnect, and experience the outdoors in its raw beauty — without giving up the comfort of flushing toilets and hot, on-demand showers.
Most of our sites are best suited for those who plan to explore during the day and return in the evening, as they receive full sun and have limited shade throughout the midday hours (during the summer months). For those looking to hang around camp during the day, we recommend bringing a shade canopy or pop-up to make your stay more comfortable.
Whether you’re here for epic hikes, rock climbs, or peaceful views, our camp is a restful and rustic homebase nestled close to the wonders of Yosemite.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$81
/ night
Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake
16. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake
98%
(374)
Shaver Lake, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Musick Creek Falls — Waterfalls, Stargazing and stunning Landscapes Just minutes from Shaver Lake, your wilderness escape begins. Welcome to our 40 acres of quiet forest, sun-warmed granite, and the steady sound of cascading water. Each campsite is private and thoughtfully placed, with a gazebo, access to fresh spring water, and nearby swimming holes carved naturally into the creek. Nestled along the edge of the Sierra National Forest, this hidden retreat blends adventure, comfort, and sustainability. The surrounding area offers no shortage of nearby highlights, including Shaver Lake, the giant sequoias of McKinley Grove, the trails and swimming holes of the Dinky Creek Wilderness, year-round recreation at China Peak, and day trips to Yosemite, Sierra, and Kings Canyon National Parks, home to the General Sherman Tree. Many guests, however, find the waterfalls, forest, and dark skies here more than enough to fill their stay. Spend your days swimming in natural pools, stargazing through our shared telescope, or resting in a hammock beneath towering cedars. Dogs are welcome to roam off-leash under supervision, and the open terrain keeps tails busy. Guests explore private trails, try their hand at gold panning, scramble granite boulders, or borrow a free kayak for nearby Shaver Lake. Rugged yet accessible (4×4 helpful in winter), Musick Creek Falls offers pristine camping, mountain views, and exceptionally clear night skies. Four secluded sites keep a light footprint on the land and include composting toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Our conservation ethos is guided by the original caretakers of this region—the Nüümü, known today as the Mono or Potuck people. Rather than relying on massive machine-cut firebreaks, aerial pesticide spraying, or “pines in lines” replanting, we take a slower, place-based approach. We use controlled burning, hands-on fuel reduction, selective native plant culling, and encourage the land to regenerate naturally. Just as important, we believe sharing the land is essential, because stewardship only lasts when people are connected to it. This is a rugged mountain property. Terrain can be steep, rocks near the creek are often slick, and nights are very dark. Campers should be prepared for off grid camping and up for adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$64
/ night
Tammy Reeves
17. Tammy Reeves
95%
(400)
Joshua Tree, CA · 30 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Simply Camping is a great place to come appreciate, respect and enjoy the peace and beauty of the Mojave Desert! It is a blessing to own this amazing property in Joshua Tree for all to come and enjoy the wonderful stars at night and the breath taking sunrise and sunsets! We look forward to greeting you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Arber-Moore's Ranch
18. Arber-Moore's Ranch
93%
(581)
Oak View, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful natural campsites in the Valley of the Moon (Ojai Valley). Our sites are within an eighth of a mile of walking, running, biking, and riding trails from Ojai to the beaches of Ventura. On many days you can experience Ojai’s famous pink moments. You can hike the trails above Ojai, boat, eat, or picnic at Lake Casitas. Travel to nearby Ventura to shop, fish the pier, or take a deep sea fishing charter or Island charter to Whale watch or fish around the Channel Islands.
Please note the aerial view of the camping area recently placed by Hipcamp is NOT AT ALL REPRESENTATIVE of the current camping sites and shows a photo that is many years old when the site was merely land.
That photo is without any of the existing amenities or improvements. The actual sites are all Larger than Federal Park and Statepark guidelines, with averages of 20'x30' for campsites and 20'x40' for a long RVCampsite.
We have planted many young trees and continue to plant trees and native shrubs around and near the sites. We have picnic tables, table coverings, fire pits, and camping rugs/footprints. There is also an outdoor shower, a shower tent with hot water, and an upgraded porta-potty with a sink.
Note: During times when high heat is predicted, we strongly recommend that our Hipcampers bring pop-up shade tents or canopies for their sites.
The Hipcamp is adjacent to our working ranch, and any photos of old sheds, trucks, a wood lot, or other equipment are NOT on the Hipcamp, but you will drive past that property to get to the separate Hipcamp area.
Wineries, Farmer's Markets, Craft Breweries, dispensaries, and more are within 10 to 15 minutes of our site. Our location allows moments when you may see Hawks, Owls, Geese, Swallows, Robins, Bluebirds, and more.
We offer both tent and RV camping.
The Majority of our Guests love it here:
"Vivian and Dave were exceptional hosts!
Easy to contact and find our way to their property. Also gave us a plethora of places to go and things to do in the Ojai area.
The area was open and spacious, and many trees and upgrades were in the works to make future stays more user-friendly.
Big pluses were the shower and toilet facilities—much appreciated !!"
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$69
/ night
Joshua Tree Container Resort
19. Joshua Tree Container Resort
96%
(196)
Twentynine Palms, CA · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Custom designed by artist John Henry Jones, the Ranch House
is the largest and most private suite at the Joshua Tree Container Resort, and has a large screened in front porch giving our guests a safe way to recreate in the outdoors in Theis desert wilderness area.
Two queen beds are available inside the history-laden ranch house (originally homesteaded during the WWI era). It is steps away from the hot tub, pool, gym, hammock palapa and great lounging spots on the ranch.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$56
/ night
DragonflyHill Desert Farm
20. DragonflyHill Desert Farm
97%
(318)
Desert Hot Springs, CA · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
About
Welcome to DragonflyHill Desert Farm & Wildlife Habitat where you can experience desert magic, starry skies, and natural mineral water from our private well. Remote enough for a quiet retreat yet easy to get to and only a short drive to amenities and outdoor adventures! Please review our rules and read our entire listing description prior to requesting to stay here, to assure we’re the right space for you. Copies of our rules, registration documents, liability waiver and amenities are provided in our photos. Guests must agree to adhere to our rules and honor our cancellation policy to book with us. If you have any questions, please make an inquiry and we will get back to you very quickly. We really do love this work.
LOCATION:
We are located one mile down a well maintained and navigable dirt road, 20 minutes to Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs and Palm Desert, and 15 minutes to the 10 freeway. We're near the Cabazon outlets, 2 hours to Los Angeles, San Diego, Disneyland, mountain areas, and beaches. Nearby there are local wildlife preserves, hiking and outdoor activities. We are 45 minutes to Joshua Tree and a half hour to Coachella. We truly are in the middle of nowhere and the center of everything. For folks traveling in winter, we’re considerably warmer than Joshua Tree and the High Desert. In summer we are cooler than Palm Springs. Immediate neighbors are small farmers and ranchers. Local spas and resorts are available for day use and access to their pools and ponds for as little as $10 a day ($5 seniors). We can provide space for events and entertainment for a small fee.
ARRIVAL:
Upon approving your reservation we'll send you a welcome message with information we need prior to your arrival to process your reservation, prepare for your arrival and provide you with check in information and accurate directions as gps apps to our location are often wrong. Please answer that initial email as soon as possible.
We'll follow up with check in information and driving directions.
Once in the gate, stay on the driveway and meet us on the patio with the blue shade sails. We will provide you with an approximately 15 minute orientation and tour, register you, check identification and show you to your campsite. Guests are required to fill out a liability waiver and a simple registration form. (See photos for copies of these forms.)
OUR SPACE:
Our land is 130 feet wide by an eighth of a mile deep in a residential neighborhood with lots 2.5-10 acres. We can see and hear our neighbors.
We maintain a very quiet space but occasionally our neighbors have their own activities and events. Let us know if the neighborhood gets too noisy and we'll try to mitigate those situations. We can also provide free earplugs for those very rare occasions. Guests wanting a totally isolated experience may want to book elsewhere.
DragonflyHill Desert Farm is a working farm in a wilderness area. Guests should check weather forecasts prior to arrival and assure that they have the right equipment. We have a moderate cancellation policy that allows guests to cancel 3 days prior to their arrival date to receive a refund. This allows enough time to check weather reports. There are occasional heavy rains and frequent high winds. It can get very hot in summer and reach freezing temperatures in winter. Despite our proximity to the freeway and nearby cities, and our location in a residential neighborhood, this is very much a wilderness area. DragonflyHill is not responsible for the weather.
We are not a resort. Expect dry plants and patches during summer and into the fall. As a farm, we may be a bit more rustic than your typical farm to allow for shelter for local wildlife. Our cultivation methods encourage biodiversity and though we are growing food, many of our crops resemble landscaping or natural habitat rather than garden patches. Currently we have habitat viewing areas, an herb garden, an orchard, an outdoor classroom, a sheltered social distancing patio, an outdoor kitchen, meditation gardens, our (seasonal) mineral pool, community library, game boards and toys, and a tree bath. Plant varieties, wildlife and presentation may vary by season. Our farm specializes in herbs, fruit trees, desert and native plants, and edible flowers. We also grow some sprouts and microgreens indoors. We cultivate community and share what we grow with our neighbors and our guests. Guests have shared access to the outdoor kitchen and BBQ area, the orchards, gardens, patios, and grounds of the Desert Farm and Wildlife Habitat, and (for safety reasons) limited access to the pool pond and spa -both unheated. The pool pond is filled with local mineral water from our own well. The pool pond is cleaned regularly & is chlorinated. The pool pond is not cleaned daily and is shared with wildlife. including bees and birds who drink water pool side. Debris from high winds and wildlife may contribute to the pool pond environment. Currently neither the pool pond nor the spa is heated. We also have wheelchair accessible hot water outdoor showers and wheelchair accessible porta potties.
The pool area is accessible to guests year round but the pool itself is winterized and unavailable from mid October through mid to late April.
We work hard to keep the home well maintained & clean; we're vigilant & do due diligence with professional quarterly visits from Truly Nolen 4 Season Pest Prevention (a green company.) We doubt you'll see any unwanted critters inside or near the house or other structures during your stay, but if you do, please advise us & we will promptly address the situation. DragonflyHill Desert Farm and Wildlife Habitat is in a remote area of the desert with lots of wildlife. To help us keep wildlife OUT of the house and campsites, please keep food out of reach of critters & clean up after every meal.
We affirmatively welcome children, but as this is a working farm in a wilderness area, parents will need to be vigilant of their child's safety and activity while here. We are constantly adding activities and features for children and adults.
We are child friendly and we are a good location for groups. (Just message us with your details and we can tailor your stay to meet your needs.)
We have 1 cat and 1 service dog. Other guests may have pets or assistance animals. Neighbors have chickens, farm animals and pets. There are a few feral cats in the vicinity as well as a variety of desert wildlife. At night you can hear the coyotes though we’ve never seen them or their tracks on our land. Common sightings of road runners, rabbits, hares, lizards, snakes, hawks, doves, desert wrens, migrating ducks (in the Spring), scorpions, mantises, crickets, mockingbirds, insects and spiders.
WHO WE ARE:
DragonflyHill is a community of artisans, activists, craftspeople and farmers, working together to cultivate community, develop methodologies for living and working together in ever increasing paradigms of social justice and sustainability. We are a safe and sober space that is disability and LGBTQIA affirmative, anti-racist, anti-sexist, anti-imperialist and de-colonialist, because anything else is just a bandaid. Core values of our work include attention to detail, fine craftwork and cultivating community.
Some members of the Dragonfly Team live on the premises at all times and will be here for the duration of your stay. The rest of the team are community members. All Team members work at DragonflyHill Desert Farm and Wildlife Habitat in different capacities, in cooperation and collaboration with each other. It should be noted that we are not a museum community and our collective is not on display. Only 2-3 members of the community are currently responsible for hosting guests. Community members are autonomous and, much of our community functions virtually. There are also occasional community events at the farm, including farming, though many activities are just coming back after the pandemic. We hope to offer activities in the Fall. All activities will continue to be held outdoors and social distancing is required.
We speak: English and Spanish. We can communicate somewhat in French, Italian and Portuguese.
DRAGONFLYHILL CONSEIRGE
We love to hear about your travels and share our knowledge of our community and Southern California with our guests. Our library, located on the Blue Patio, offers children’s books, local history including indigenous history, farming and gardening, wildlife guides, hiking trails, entertainment and tourist attractions. We can recommend activities on and off site including places to go with children, local hiking, museums, restaurants and shopping.
In addition to campsites, for additional fees, we offer reiki, a private jacuzzi hot water mineral bath, farm tours, firewood, tutoring, tax preparation, vehicle storage, event and space rental, and classes. Three of us are licensed to officiate weddings.
RULES, DOCUMENTS & AMENITIES
Carefully read our listing description and our rules to determine if we're the right space for you. We know we have excellent reviews but take the time to assure that we offer what you are looking for. Each Hipcamp host is autonomous and has their own rules, amenities and features. Hipcamp does not provide guests a copy of the house rules until after you have selected a location and then requires you to agree to the house rules before finalizing your decision. There is not enough space in the listing description to include the rules so guests can see them prior to booking. If you would like to see our rules, registration documents or a list of amenities please find them in our photos or message us prior to booking and we will send you a copy.
We welcome guests new to Hipcamp but please take the time to familiarize yourself with the Hipcamp platform. Hipcamp travel is very different from public campgrounds. At DragonflyHill Desert Farm and Wildlife Habitat you will be guests in our home. We welcome and encourage guests with service and support animals to stay with us. All animals must have current vaccination records.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$28
/ night
95% (28.8K) • 1,547 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in California
Splitrock Farm and Retreat
1. Splitrock Farm and Retreat
96%
(1630)
Fallbrook, CA · 73 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
About Splitrock Farm and Retreat
Far Away, Close to Home
Instagram page @splitrockfarmandretreat. Tag your photos #splitrockfarmandretreat #SplitrockFAR #farawayclosetohome
Or, contact the Camp Host through Hipcamp direct message or the direct line 760-645-5431.
Splitrock Farm and Retreat started in January 2021 after a global search of a place to set roots, live off the land, and create an amazing place for recreation, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
Splitrock was part of a 160-acre avocado farm that prospered from 1970 to 2017, generating over 1million pounds of avocados per year until the previous owners switched off the water in 2017. Ben purchased 101 acres in 2021 with plans to harvest the dead avocado trees for firewood and replant with organic, sustainable crops such as grapes, citrus trees, and flowers.
Splitrock's attraction comes from its unique groves, magnificent granite boulders, and sweeping vistas. Mixed within the avocado groves are several ancient groves and solitary trees that include 150+ foot tall pines, hundreds of old oaks, and soaring palms. Freckled throughout the hillsides are thousands of humongous granite boulders, offering a prehistoric feel to the landscape. Above all, Splitrock offers unrivaled views. Over 40 miles of coastline includes views to Point Loma, the Carlsbad power station, and the Pendleton Hospital. To the northeast are views of near 11K foot snowy peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio, with rolling hills of De Luz and Fallbrook in the foreground.
Pets
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from
$22
/ night
Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch
2. Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch
93%
(1289)
Palomar Mountain, CA · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This land has been a community gathering space for the Native's Ceremony and Healing Space for over a thousand years. Feast your eyes upon the Matates and traces of the people that once gathered here so long ago.Upon the mid 1800's we had a Settler named Nate Harrison find this to be the ideal space, and he set up homestead here, and lived an amazing full life. He was to become the first African American to aquire land here in San Diego County, and his homestead remains to this day; studied by archaeology students to this day.Sensitive habitat and magic lies within our gates, and we must approach the mountain as we would any sacred space; with RESPECT.We welcome you to enjoy Nate's land and inspire who you are deep inside your heart.
Pets
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from
$59
/ night
dabudage Big Sur
3. dabudage Big Sur
95%
(733)
CA · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging
⭐DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. 🌈🌊***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. ⭐
Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes a 15% cut.
Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage.
*We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site.
There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity.
There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers.
A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come.
Children are welcome.
Dogs are welcome off-leash.
Alcohol is discouraged.
No electronic music devices.
Fires in designated pits only.
Pack out trash.
TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from.
*YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED
Requests are usually checked once daily.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$90
/ night
Tahoe National Forest
4. Tahoe National Forest
93%
(255)
National forest in California · 1382 sites
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
Pets
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Inyo National Forest
5. Inyo National Forest
96%
(453)
National forest in California · 2001 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Beachfront Retreat on Sea of Cortez
6. Beachfront Retreat on Sea of Cortez
100%
(1)
1 site
Beachfront Home Offers Spectacular Panorama from Veranda and Huge Living/Dining Room. Enjoy Total Relaxation.
2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths. Popular North End of Town, 5 Miles from Downtown San Felipe. Our Beach Is Virtually Private.
——-
As you can see, the setting of this home is out of a dream. Of all the world's oceans, Jacques Cousteau favored the Sea of Cortez, calling it "The Aquarium of the World." His favorite body of water is the panorama you'll enjoy through two walls of glass in this expansive home.
Stunning views...empty white-sand beaches...ultra-clear skies. And the only sounds you're likely to hear are the gentle surf and ocean breezes.
There's really no other place like Baja California. This land has changed little since Fernando Cortés first saw it in 1533. And dawn over the sea begins each day in spectacular fashion.
Our huge front room combines living, dining, and kitchen into one 700-square-foot space, with four sets of doors which open to a broad Spanish-style veranda. Spend the day reading in lounge chairs, mixing a drink or two at the hand-carved bar, or walking on miles of secluded beach.
The kitchen area offers 20 feet of counter space, while a massive wooden dining table easily accommodates your entire group for memorable meals.
Each of the spacious bedrooms features one large bed, while the two bathrooms feature large showers. If you want to bring an airbed, there’s plenty of space in the living room.
The town of San Felipe is completely safe and friendly -- and unlike a Cabo or Cancun, it offers an *authentic* Mexico experience.
(If anyone in your group has concerns about Baja, search the following for a great Lonely Planet article: "Are Americans Safer in Mexico than at Home?")
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ESSENTIAL READING:
Baja is all about nature and freedom. The houses range from humble one-room shacks to desert palaces. As you can see in the photos, our home is nicer than average, yet still simple and casual. It's a true Baja beach house -- not a designer bungalow on Nantucket.
San Felipe doesn't offer the manicured beach resorts that you find in Hawaii or Cabo. This is a more traditional place to be.
In short, we'd say that if you're the kind of person who would never go camping, this probably is not the ideal spot for you. We encourage everyone to scan a half-dozen reviews, to get the full range of guest reactions.
Please note that this house has electric service, with a rooftop tank holding mountain spring water, plus propane for the stove and water heater.
If you require a concierge to manage your holidays, or can't stand dust from the desert, you may want to consider another destination. This is a place for hearty living -- a place Steinbeck would have loved.
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It takes only 5 to 10 minutes to travel from this isolated beachfront retreat to all the shopping, restaurants, nightclubs, and other attractions of North San Felipe and the Malecon.
Dining options range from casual to fine. Regardless of which you choose, you'll love the freshness, taste, and purity of San Felipe's seafood-focused cuisine. (Arid Baja has none of the "issues" of mainland Mexico.)
At your doorstep await unforgettable wilderness adventures, in untouched desert backcountry where mountains soar 10,000 feet over huge dry lakes.
The Sea of Cortez (also known as the Mar de Cortés and Vermilion Sea) offers kayaking, kitesurfing, windsurfing, boating, fishing, and more.
And after sunset, clear air and virtually no ambient light ensure some of the finest skies left on this planet.
All just a 5 1/2-hour drive from Los Angeles...4 hours from San Diego.
++++++++++++++++++++++++
Additional Notes:
* Mapping for Mexico is a bit difficult. You can enter "San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico" in the most popular mapping program, zoom out till you see El Dorado Ranch and Playa Hawaii north of San Felipe. Our home overlooks the beach in this area.
* Biologically speaking, the Sea of Cortez is the richest body of water on the planet. This diverse sea supports more than 900 varieties of fish, and more than 2,000 species of marine invertebrates.
* Spring water is trucked in, and stored in a 1,000-gallon tank. The first tanks of water and propane are included. If a water refill is required, you pay the $50. The cost of a propane refill is about $20.
* There is no landline phone, but we do have wifi, and most cell phones work.
* Note that Baja can be HOT, especially from mid-June through the end of August. In Summer, typical temperatures are high 90s or low 100s during the day, and 70s to 80s at night.
* Pets are welcome.
* Please smoke on the veranda — never inside.
* Sheets are provided for the three beds. You should bring bath and beach towels, as well as your favorite toiletries.
* Kitchenware is provided, but if you're particular, you may want to bring your favorite gear.
* There’s a small tabletop BBQ grill, and a big old one.
* A 600-square-foot garage with RV doors may be available at extra cost with advance arrangements -- but there's plenty of easy parking outdoors on approx. 1 1/2 acres.
* If you have kids, please note that the bluff in front of the house is about 30 feet above the beach.
* The closest path to the beach is in the arroyo just south of the house. There is also another road to the beach which begins about 150 feet above the entrance to the property. The beach itself is fine sand, and deep in places. Motorcycles and ATVs are welcome. For four-wheeled vehicles, 4WD is essential.
* Kayaks and other small watercraft can be launched easily from the beach. Kitesurfing is popular. Be aware of the tides! The Gulf of California has one of the largest tidal ranges in the world, and at low tide, the ocean recedes far from the beach for a few hours.
* PWCs and boats on trailers can also be launched from the beach. A 4WD tow vehicle is essential. Again, be aware of the tides.
* There is a wood-burning fireplace.
* There are large supermarkets in central San Felipe (such as Calimax, on the main drag). You can get fresh food and everything else you might need at reasonable prices.
* Wheelchair access to the home is fairly easy. The showers are very large, but otherwise of standard design.
* There can be dogs roaming free, but we've never seen an aggressive one. You may also encounter a mosquito or two, little desert critters, etc.
* Snowbird? Looking for a long-term retreat? Low rates are available to quality candidates.
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from
$119
/ night
Campo Nopalito
7. Campo Nopalito
99%
(609)
Valley Center, CA · 7 sites
Welcome to Nopalito Farm! We’re so happy you’ve decided to spend some time on this beautiful property! In case you’re interested, here are a few interesting things about our farm.
Nopalito Farm has been in operation since late 2014, but the property itself has been a working farm for over 50 years. Lemons and avocados were the primary crops from the 70’s through the 00’s, and are still prominent throughout our 15 acres. Our predecessors then diversified the growing operation by planting a wide range of fruit trees ranging from guavas and passion fruit to peaches and figs. For a decade, hops were grown on 2 acres and were sold to breweries throughout southern California. We’ve since replaced the hop yard with perennial flowers, but continue to cultivate a wide variety of delicious fruits.
Pets
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from
$94
/ night
Salmon Creek Ranch
8. Salmon Creek Ranch
97%
(3546)
Bodega Bay, CA · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located within 45 minutes of the wine country and 2 miles from the coast, our property is 400 acres of rolling hills and redwood groves, with a creek running along its base. With miles of trails meandering through quiet woods and meadows, you will be able to revel in the tranquility of a private preserve, without sacrificing easy access to some of Sonoma County's most famous attractions. A hundred years ago, this land was used to graze sheep. Remnants of the old fence lines can still be seen in places, along with old cement troughs. Since then, the land has been left to its own devices, passing through many hands, most famously owned by two brothers in the 1980's who built a truly amazing tree house in the forest which has been featured in several magazine articles. It was revamped and updated in 2016 by a master craftsman, using fallen redwood logs found on the property and is now a unique structural work of art, available for overnight stays. We produce 100% grass fed, dry-aged beef on our certified organic pastures and have a store on site if you would like to purchase delicious steaks, ribs, ground beef for hamburgers or some roasts to take home. Our cattle graze on the native grasses, never grain, and drink only water produced from our own springs. We also raise Kiko meat goats and produce pastured, certified organic duck eggs on a commercial basis. Whether it's surfing at sandy beaches, award-winning clam chowder, a wine tour, horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride you're after, you won't have far to drive if you make our ranch your base camp. You may see a family of deer appear suddenly, or a few Scottish Highland cows which we allow to roam freely over the property. There are over twenty species of wild birds that grace this protected spot, so bring your binoculars! A portion of your fee goes towards protecting native flora and fauna as part of our private wildlife preservation program. A limited number of private, widely spaced camp spots are available for visitors. The Eagles' Nest Treehouse (mentioned above) is very isolated and you may or may not even be aware that there are other people within miles of you. For those who value nature, seclusion, quiet and the artistry of old growth redwood, this is the place for you.
Pets
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from
$120
/ night
The Castle House: Estate
9. The Castle House: Estate
95%
(893)
Joshua Tree, CA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Units designed to make the everyday extraordinary.
Step into a realm where luxury meets rugged beauty at The Castle House: Estate, your gateway to the ULTIMATE "GLAMPING" experience! As seen on HGTV, our tiny home oasis in Joshua Tree redefines accommodation with a unique medieval twist, seamlessly blending indoor-outdoor living and exceptional entertainment. Nestled in the heart of Joshua Tree and just minutes away from the awe-inspiring Joshua Tree National Park, The Castle House: Estate stands as a testament to opulence in the desert.
Set on 12 picturesque acres, surrounded by vast private undeveloped land, our estate offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility and exclusivity. Experience a stay like no other in our award-winning haven, recognized with The BNB's prestigious Traveler Best Reviewed Property.
But the enchantment doesn't end there—immerse yourself in the rejuvenating embrace of our tiered hexagonal aqua blue cowboy pool, strategically placed on a stunning IPE wood deck. This artistic oasis is a visual masterpiece, inviting you to bask in the sun or stargaze by night. Indulge in the luxury of our room service, available until midnight, offering a curated selection of local fare to tantalize your taste buds. At The Castle House: Estate, we redefine glamping by marrying comfort and adventure, creating an unforgettable escape that transcends the ordinary. Elevate your stay, reinvent yourself, and make memories that last a lifetime at The Castle House: Estate—where every moment is a masterpiece waiting to unfold. Book your extraordinary desert retreat now and be a part of an experience that's truly fit for royalty!Campers will be required to complete a check-in waiver before the date of their stay - providing a valid ID, DOB, and address.
Pets
Toilets
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from
$66
/ night
Shasta-Trinity National Forest
10. Shasta-Trinity National Forest
93%
(137)
National forest in California · 912 sites
California’s largest national forest offers year-round outdoor adventures and diverse camping options.
Pets
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Campfires
Sierra National Forest
11. Sierra National Forest
92%
(176)
National forest in California · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
San Bernardino National Forest
12. San Bernardino National Forest
94%
(151)
National forest in California · 863 sites
Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sequoia National Forest
13. Sequoia National Forest
98%
(271)
National forest in California · 905 sites
Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Yosemite Westlake Camp
14. Yosemite Westlake Camp
88%
(646)
Coulterville, CA · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located on the John Muir Historic route to Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Westlake Campground and RV Park is convenient to all things Yosemite.
Between here and the park is Rainbow Pool, a well-known swimming hole that campers here often visit on their way back to the campground for a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
Coulterville was started as a gold-rush town. You can visit the museum and visitor center even try your hand at panning for gold.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$51
/ night
Yosemite Colfax Spring
15. Yosemite Colfax Spring
98%
(983)
Groveland, CA · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Your Basecamp for Yosemite Adventure 🌲⛰
Just 15–20 minutes from the entrance of Yosemite National Park and about an hour from the Yosemite Valley floor, our camp offers the perfect location to recharge after exploring one of the most iconic natural landscapes on Earth. We’re also about 1.5 hours from the high-country beauty of Tuolumne Meadows, making this a great launchpad for day trips in every direction.
Perched in the scenic Sierra foothills, our dry camping sites are celebrated for breathtaking panoramic views, open skies, and unforgettable sunrises and starry nights. It’s an ideal place to unwind, reconnect, and experience the outdoors in its raw beauty — without giving up the comfort of flushing toilets and hot, on-demand showers.
Most of our sites are best suited for those who plan to explore during the day and return in the evening, as they receive full sun and have limited shade throughout the midday hours (during the summer months). For those looking to hang around camp during the day, we recommend bringing a shade canopy or pop-up to make your stay more comfortable.
Whether you’re here for epic hikes, rock climbs, or peaceful views, our camp is a restful and rustic homebase nestled close to the wonders of Yosemite.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$81
/ night
Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake
16. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake
98%
(374)
Shaver Lake, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Musick Creek Falls — Waterfalls, Stargazing and stunning Landscapes Just minutes from Shaver Lake, your wilderness escape begins. Welcome to our 40 acres of quiet forest, sun-warmed granite, and the steady sound of cascading water. Each campsite is private and thoughtfully placed, with a gazebo, access to fresh spring water, and nearby swimming holes carved naturally into the creek. Nestled along the edge of the Sierra National Forest, this hidden retreat blends adventure, comfort, and sustainability. The surrounding area offers no shortage of nearby highlights, including Shaver Lake, the giant sequoias of McKinley Grove, the trails and swimming holes of the Dinky Creek Wilderness, year-round recreation at China Peak, and day trips to Yosemite, Sierra, and Kings Canyon National Parks, home to the General Sherman Tree. Many guests, however, find the waterfalls, forest, and dark skies here more than enough to fill their stay. Spend your days swimming in natural pools, stargazing through our shared telescope, or resting in a hammock beneath towering cedars. Dogs are welcome to roam off-leash under supervision, and the open terrain keeps tails busy. Guests explore private trails, try their hand at gold panning, scramble granite boulders, or borrow a free kayak for nearby Shaver Lake. Rugged yet accessible (4×4 helpful in winter), Musick Creek Falls offers pristine camping, mountain views, and exceptionally clear night skies. Four secluded sites keep a light footprint on the land and include composting toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Our conservation ethos is guided by the original caretakers of this region—the Nüümü, known today as the Mono or Potuck people. Rather than relying on massive machine-cut firebreaks, aerial pesticide spraying, or “pines in lines” replanting, we take a slower, place-based approach. We use controlled burning, hands-on fuel reduction, selective native plant culling, and encourage the land to regenerate naturally. Just as important, we believe sharing the land is essential, because stewardship only lasts when people are connected to it. This is a rugged mountain property. Terrain can be steep, rocks near the creek are often slick, and nights are very dark. Campers should be prepared for off grid camping and up for adventure!
Pets
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from
$64
/ night
Tammy Reeves
17. Tammy Reeves
95%
(400)
Joshua Tree, CA · 30 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Simply Camping is a great place to come appreciate, respect and enjoy the peace and beauty of the Mojave Desert! It is a blessing to own this amazing property in Joshua Tree for all to come and enjoy the wonderful stars at night and the breath taking sunrise and sunsets! We look forward to greeting you!
Pets
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Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Arber-Moore's Ranch
18. Arber-Moore's Ranch
93%
(581)
Oak View, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful natural campsites in the Valley of the Moon (Ojai Valley). Our sites are within an eighth of a mile of walking, running, biking, and riding trails from Ojai to the beaches of Ventura. On many days you can experience Ojai’s famous pink moments. You can hike the trails above Ojai, boat, eat, or picnic at Lake Casitas. Travel to nearby Ventura to shop, fish the pier, or take a deep sea fishing charter or Island charter to Whale watch or fish around the Channel Islands.
Please note the aerial view of the camping area recently placed by Hipcamp is NOT AT ALL REPRESENTATIVE of the current camping sites and shows a photo that is many years old when the site was merely land.
That photo is without any of the existing amenities or improvements. The actual sites are all Larger than Federal Park and Statepark guidelines, with averages of 20'x30' for campsites and 20'x40' for a long RVCampsite.
We have planted many young trees and continue to plant trees and native shrubs around and near the sites. We have picnic tables, table coverings, fire pits, and camping rugs/footprints. There is also an outdoor shower, a shower tent with hot water, and an upgraded porta-potty with a sink.
Note: During times when high heat is predicted, we strongly recommend that our Hipcampers bring pop-up shade tents or canopies for their sites.
The Hipcamp is adjacent to our working ranch, and any photos of old sheds, trucks, a wood lot, or other equipment are NOT on the Hipcamp, but you will drive past that property to get to the separate Hipcamp area.
Wineries, Farmer's Markets, Craft Breweries, dispensaries, and more are within 10 to 15 minutes of our site. Our location allows moments when you may see Hawks, Owls, Geese, Swallows, Robins, Bluebirds, and more.
We offer both tent and RV camping.
The Majority of our Guests love it here:
"Vivian and Dave were exceptional hosts!
Easy to contact and find our way to their property. Also gave us a plethora of places to go and things to do in the Ojai area.
The area was open and spacious, and many trees and upgrades were in the works to make future stays more user-friendly.
Big pluses were the shower and toilet facilities—much appreciated !!"
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$69
/ night
Joshua Tree Container Resort
19. Joshua Tree Container Resort
96%
(196)
Twentynine Palms, CA · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Custom designed by artist John Henry Jones, the Ranch House
is the largest and most private suite at the Joshua Tree Container Resort, and has a large screened in front porch giving our guests a safe way to recreate in the outdoors in Theis desert wilderness area.
Two queen beds are available inside the history-laden ranch house (originally homesteaded during the WWI era). It is steps away from the hot tub, pool, gym, hammock palapa and great lounging spots on the ranch.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$56
/ night
DragonflyHill Desert Farm
20. DragonflyHill Desert Farm
97%
(318)
Desert Hot Springs, CA · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
About
Welcome to DragonflyHill Desert Farm & Wildlife Habitat where you can experience desert magic, starry skies, and natural mineral water from our private well. Remote enough for a quiet retreat yet easy to get to and only a short drive to amenities and outdoor adventures! Please review our rules and read our entire listing description prior to requesting to stay here, to assure we’re the right space for you. Copies of our rules, registration documents, liability waiver and amenities are provided in our photos. Guests must agree to adhere to our rules and honor our cancellation policy to book with us. If you have any questions, please make an inquiry and we will get back to you very quickly. We really do love this work.
LOCATION:
We are located one mile down a well maintained and navigable dirt road, 20 minutes to Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs and Palm Desert, and 15 minutes to the 10 freeway. We're near the Cabazon outlets, 2 hours to Los Angeles, San Diego, Disneyland, mountain areas, and beaches. Nearby there are local wildlife preserves, hiking and outdoor activities. We are 45 minutes to Joshua Tree and a half hour to Coachella. We truly are in the middle of nowhere and the center of everything. For folks traveling in winter, we’re considerably warmer than Joshua Tree and the High Desert. In summer we are cooler than Palm Springs. Immediate neighbors are small farmers and ranchers. Local spas and resorts are available for day use and access to their pools and ponds for as little as $10 a day ($5 seniors). We can provide space for events and entertainment for a small fee.
ARRIVAL:
Upon approving your reservation we'll send you a welcome message with information we need prior to your arrival to process your reservation, prepare for your arrival and provide you with check in information and accurate directions as gps apps to our location are often wrong. Please answer that initial email as soon as possible.
We'll follow up with check in information and driving directions.
Once in the gate, stay on the driveway and meet us on the patio with the blue shade sails. We will provide you with an approximately 15 minute orientation and tour, register you, check identification and show you to your campsite. Guests are required to fill out a liability waiver and a simple registration form. (See photos for copies of these forms.)
OUR SPACE:
Our land is 130 feet wide by an eighth of a mile deep in a residential neighborhood with lots 2.5-10 acres. We can see and hear our neighbors.
We maintain a very quiet space but occasionally our neighbors have their own activities and events. Let us know if the neighborhood gets too noisy and we'll try to mitigate those situations. We can also provide free earplugs for those very rare occasions. Guests wanting a totally isolated experience may want to book elsewhere.
DragonflyHill Desert Farm is a working farm in a wilderness area. Guests should check weather forecasts prior to arrival and assure that they have the right equipment. We have a moderate cancellation policy that allows guests to cancel 3 days prior to their arrival date to receive a refund. This allows enough time to check weather reports. There are occasional heavy rains and frequent high winds. It can get very hot in summer and reach freezing temperatures in winter. Despite our proximity to the freeway and nearby cities, and our location in a residential neighborhood, this is very much a wilderness area. DragonflyHill is not responsible for the weather.
We are not a resort. Expect dry plants and patches during summer and into the fall. As a farm, we may be a bit more rustic than your typical farm to allow for shelter for local wildlife. Our cultivation methods encourage biodiversity and though we are growing food, many of our crops resemble landscaping or natural habitat rather than garden patches. Currently we have habitat viewing areas, an herb garden, an orchard, an outdoor classroom, a sheltered social distancing patio, an outdoor kitchen, meditation gardens, our (seasonal) mineral pool, community library, game boards and toys, and a tree bath. Plant varieties, wildlife and presentation may vary by season. Our farm specializes in herbs, fruit trees, desert and native plants, and edible flowers. We also grow some sprouts and microgreens indoors. We cultivate community and share what we grow with our neighbors and our guests. Guests have shared access to the outdoor kitchen and BBQ area, the orchards, gardens, patios, and grounds of the Desert Farm and Wildlife Habitat, and (for safety reasons) limited access to the pool pond and spa -both unheated. The pool pond is filled with local mineral water from our own well. The pool pond is cleaned regularly & is chlorinated. The pool pond is not cleaned daily and is shared with wildlife. including bees and birds who drink water pool side. Debris from high winds and wildlife may contribute to the pool pond environment. Currently neither the pool pond nor the spa is heated. We also have wheelchair accessible hot water outdoor showers and wheelchair accessible porta potties.
The pool area is accessible to guests year round but the pool itself is winterized and unavailable from mid October through mid to late April.
We work hard to keep the home well maintained & clean; we're vigilant & do due diligence with professional quarterly visits from Truly Nolen 4 Season Pest Prevention (a green company.) We doubt you'll see any unwanted critters inside or near the house or other structures during your stay, but if you do, please advise us & we will promptly address the situation. DragonflyHill Desert Farm and Wildlife Habitat is in a remote area of the desert with lots of wildlife. To help us keep wildlife OUT of the house and campsites, please keep food out of reach of critters & clean up after every meal.
We affirmatively welcome children, but as this is a working farm in a wilderness area, parents will need to be vigilant of their child's safety and activity while here. We are constantly adding activities and features for children and adults.
We are child friendly and we are a good location for groups. (Just message us with your details and we can tailor your stay to meet your needs.)
We have 1 cat and 1 service dog. Other guests may have pets or assistance animals. Neighbors have chickens, farm animals and pets. There are a few feral cats in the vicinity as well as a variety of desert wildlife. At night you can hear the coyotes though we’ve never seen them or their tracks on our land. Common sightings of road runners, rabbits, hares, lizards, snakes, hawks, doves, desert wrens, migrating ducks (in the Spring), scorpions, mantises, crickets, mockingbirds, insects and spiders.
WHO WE ARE:
DragonflyHill is a community of artisans, activists, craftspeople and farmers, working together to cultivate community, develop methodologies for living and working together in ever increasing paradigms of social justice and sustainability. We are a safe and sober space that is disability and LGBTQIA affirmative, anti-racist, anti-sexist, anti-imperialist and de-colonialist, because anything else is just a bandaid. Core values of our work include attention to detail, fine craftwork and cultivating community.
Some members of the Dragonfly Team live on the premises at all times and will be here for the duration of your stay. The rest of the team are community members. All Team members work at DragonflyHill Desert Farm and Wildlife Habitat in different capacities, in cooperation and collaboration with each other. It should be noted that we are not a museum community and our collective is not on display. Only 2-3 members of the community are currently responsible for hosting guests. Community members are autonomous and, much of our community functions virtually. There are also occasional community events at the farm, including farming, though many activities are just coming back after the pandemic. We hope to offer activities in the Fall. All activities will continue to be held outdoors and social distancing is required.
We speak: English and Spanish. We can communicate somewhat in French, Italian and Portuguese.
DRAGONFLYHILL CONSEIRGE
We love to hear about your travels and share our knowledge of our community and Southern California with our guests. Our library, located on the Blue Patio, offers children’s books, local history including indigenous history, farming and gardening, wildlife guides, hiking trails, entertainment and tourist attractions. We can recommend activities on and off site including places to go with children, local hiking, museums, restaurants and shopping.
In addition to campsites, for additional fees, we offer reiki, a private jacuzzi hot water mineral bath, farm tours, firewood, tutoring, tax preparation, vehicle storage, event and space rental, and classes. Three of us are licensed to officiate weddings.
RULES, DOCUMENTS & AMENITIES
Carefully read our listing description and our rules to determine if we're the right space for you. We know we have excellent reviews but take the time to assure that we offer what you are looking for. Each Hipcamp host is autonomous and has their own rules, amenities and features. Hipcamp does not provide guests a copy of the house rules until after you have selected a location and then requires you to agree to the house rules before finalizing your decision. There is not enough space in the listing description to include the rules so guests can see them prior to booking. If you would like to see our rules, registration documents or a list of amenities please find them in our photos or message us prior to booking and we will send you a copy.
We welcome guests new to Hipcamp but please take the time to familiarize yourself with the Hipcamp platform. Hipcamp travel is very different from public campgrounds. At DragonflyHill Desert Farm and Wildlife Habitat you will be guests in our home. We welcome and encourage guests with service and support animals to stay with us. All animals must have current vaccination records.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$28
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Alexandria
2 weeks ago
With pets
We loved visiting Vicki's land! The tent was a perfect size for my husband, dog, and I. The grounds had beautiful views, trails, and the other camping sites well spaced out. I would definitely recommend camping here and would love to return again soon!
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reed
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
My wife and I had a wonderful stay at Splitrock’s Hilltop Hideaway. We had the whole area to ourselves and stayed on the upper level which gave way to spectacular views of the entire valley. We had an unexpected treat as a whole tribe of goats came up and hung out with us for a while and one of their sweet dogs. Looking forward to going back in the summer and would highly recommend.
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M
Marlen
2 weeks ago
13 ft Class B
With kids
We loved everything about it. The facilities are really well kept, and the campsites are so far away from each other that it feels you are alone... lots of interesting hiking and let's not forget the stars of this trip, baby goats! Oh my they were adorable. Everyone is very friendly therevas well. 10/10 super recommended.
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Nicholas
2 weeks ago
Tent
The Ascension Ranch was incredible. They were very supportive hosts and had the perfect balance of helping us find our way and cultivating a gorgeous spot, while also respecting our privacy and letting us have a much needed friends gathering. The land was beautiful and we LOVED the animals. We even had the BEST dog hang with us at our campsite, which not only added to our joy of the place, but kept us feeling safe and secure. 10/10 worth the trip. We're planning another trip in the Summer.
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Diego
2 weeks ago
22 ft campervan
Great site and place. We loved staying there. I would highly recomended
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J
Juliette
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur
Great property! I enjoyed using the kitchen, walking along the creek, and seeing the chickens. The redwood room itself is in good condition and was cozy for a night stay. A great view of the water as well.
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John
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Campo Nopalito
10/10 experience! Went up for Valentine’s Day and our cabin was gorgeous! Highly reccomend the smores kit. Pizza oven was next level and shower don’t even get me started, best shower of your life
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Daniel
2 weeks ago
With pets
Kat was very nice and understanding, we knocked on their door to give them a gift and they invited us right in. The next morning they treated us to some snacks. The little cabin is so cute too.
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Bill
2 weeks ago
24 ft Class C
Awesome Host!! Very easy to communicate with and kind and friendly.
The site was great!! Large, with a nice fire pit, hookups for water and electricity, picnic tables, great access to the river, what more can one ask!
I would definitely stay there again!
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Dan
2 weeks ago
With pets
This is the perfect place for a San Diego getaway! It’s such a gorgeous property and A Frame to stay in. We had an awesome weekend hanging out and reading with the side open and making pizzas in the wood fired oven in the evening. Jacob and his girlfriend were super friendly and helpful, and the fruit we bought with passion fruits and kumquats is the best we’ve had anywhere. Camp dog Gertie is also sweet as can be and followed us around as we walked through the flowers. Would reccomend 11/10 and will definitely be back!
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J
John
2 weeks ago
Tent
Great tent camp experience, beautiful property so close to Yosemite’s west gate. Very responsive and helpful!
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Shannon
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Mac was super friendly and greeted our group when we first arrived and explained where everything was.
Tips: Make sure to bring firewood and lanterns/flash lights. It gets really dark at night and there’s no lighting around the area.
It’s a little tricky to find the site at night with maps, it had us go through a bunch of housing but it’s really just off the road.
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Alexandra
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Was a great campground with a beautiful views of the Fallbrook area. Had a good time tent camping with a nice fire pit along it. Found that the local goats were so cute and the peace of being in the great outdoors was just what was needed to escape the hustle and bustle of city life!
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Oakley Rose
2 weeks ago
Tent
Highly recommend! The animals are amazing and the property is beautiful.
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S
Sun-Ho
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
Lovely grounds and host! I went for tent camping and Jonesy really makes this space cozy and special. The camping spot is spacious and open, with firepit and table provided, and it was great to have such well-thought out amenities just a walk away. The provided bathroom was convenient, but when a big party arrived it became very busy so having a backup bathroom plan when tent camping is recommended. Overall would definitely return, especially when the sites at Joshua Tree are all booked up!
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Nicole
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We had such an incredible experience staying here. The property is absolutely beautiful — peaceful, scenic, and truly the perfect place to disconnect and relax. The views alone made the stay unforgettable, and you can really feel how special and well-cared-for the space is.
Shandie was an amazing host from start to finish. She was kind, welcoming, and genuinely thoughtful, even checking in and offering help if anyone needed anything. Her generosity and hospitality made us feel comfortable and appreciated, and it meant so much to be able to stay somewhere so serene and inviting.
This was exactly the kind of peaceful escape we were hoping for, and we’re so grateful for the opportunity to experience it. I would absolutely recommend this spot to anyone looking for a beautiful, quiet place to relax and recharge. We would love to come back again someday.
Thank you again for everything — it was truly a wonderful experience.
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Jennifer
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
We stayed two nights at Tabernacle and loved it! Very private, beautiful views, cool site, huge rocks and places to explore. Loved the goats that came through our site, though they tried to climb on our table as we were eating breakfast. The farm itself is fun and peaceful, we also did the baby goats experience and the kids loved it!
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Emma
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Campo Nopalito
Our time at Nopalito Farm was seriously awesome - Jacob & his partner were incredibly hospitable, the farm was beautiful, and our A-frame was super cute and clean. We got to cook in the wood fire pizza oven which was a blast. The kitchen is fully stocked with everything you could need. We’ll definitely be coming back!
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Carina
2 weeks ago
Tent
We stayed here in a camper van in February for two nights, and it was such a lovely stay. The property feels so welcoming and eclectic, with easy to use amenities, a beautiful riverfront area, and just a short walk to the beach. We could hear the rush of the river each night. More folks seemed to be tent camping, but as it wasn't super busy, the host showed us a great private location for our campervan that we loved. The property itself is in an ideal location from other landmark spots on Big Sur; close to bigger beaches, hikes, and day spots. We will absolutely come back here!
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Nicholas
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
With pets
Great spot to park your camper van or set up a tent. Quiet, great star gazing, and excellent host. Outdoor showers, sauna, and hot tub! Highly recommended.
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