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- Camping with Swimming
The best camping in California with swimming
95% (50.6K) • 31,898 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in California
Mystic Forest Campground
1. Mystic Forest Campground
98%
(1177)
Klamath, CA · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Mystic Forest is a small, family-run campground between Klamath, CA, and Crescent City. We have 50 acres of beautiful forest sprinkled with redwood trees. We have restrooms, showers, a game room, a mini golf course, horseshoes, and a half-mile trail. We are pet-friendly. At the office you can find some grocery and redwoods souvenirs. Our laundry facility will be closed indefinitely for repairs starting on August 10th.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Diamond Gulch
2. Diamond Gulch
96%
(1293)
Groveland, CA · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Groups of 15 or more use this code for 15% off your stay! ADMXESCZ Check out this sweet YouTube video of the property! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEvKF5nqcUM
Early and late check-out available on tent/rv sites, free of charge. Just message me if you need an earlier check in! Free firewood! We are 30 minutes to the main gate of Yosemite National Park. A great place to stay just outside of the park. Be near the park, but feel that complete privacy. These sites are very spaced out from each other and are large. No need to cram together! Explore the mines and hang out on our Groveland, California ranch!
We have 824 acres on a beautiful cattle ranch with two small ponds. On our property, you'll find frogs, turtles, oak trees, pine trees and stunning views of Yosemite.
We have several campsites to choose from including RV camping, tent camping, and a glamping tent. Pets are welcome. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban. Potable water and toilet are available onsite.
There's a golf course less than a mile away. We are also very close to town. In just a few minutes, you can drive to our local grocery store and pizza parlour.
We are a 10-minute drive to Pine Mountain Lake. Beautiful Pine Mountain Lake offers golfing, dining, horseback riding, water sports and an airport.
When you come to the ranch it feels like you are hundreds of miles away from civilization, but still close to everything you need. It is incredibly peaceful!
This is a great place for someone who wants to escape city life and enjoy the tranquillity of nature.
Much of the ranch is open wilderness for you to explore, and it's not uncommon to see deer, frogs, turtles, quail, turkeys, or other countless species of birds.
Diamond Gulch Camp is the perfect place to relax if you’re a photographer, artist, family or a group of friends looking for a place to camp near Yosemite.
A small portion of the property was used as a gold mine years ago, and you may find remnants of old home sites if you go exploring. We're not far from Wards Ferry Road, Groveland, Lake Don Pedro and other interesting places.
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Campfires
Finley Camp
3. Finley Camp
99%
(2022)
Bodega Bay, CA · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Finley Camp is nestled along Finley Creek in West Sonoma County. Campsites are located in open flats surrounded by Coast Doug Fir, Alder, and California Bay forests. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate, and access to a porta potty and hand washing station. The campsites are located past the end of the county road allowing for a quiet peaceful experience. Enjoy a quiet stroll on site, the surrounding communities of Bodega, Bodega Bay, Valley Ford, and Tomales, or just enjoy a quiet day in camp. Our sites are located approximately 20 minutes from Bodega Bay. The campsites are 2.5 miles from the coast and the weather can be unpredictable. As a general rule, it is very similar to that of San Francisco.
All camp sites are situated in a valley that offers protection from the coastal winds. The have both morning and evening shade. Sites #2, #6, #7, and #11 have the most space, while sites #4, #7, #8, #9 and #11 offer the most privacy. Sites 1-3, any combination of 5-7, and 12-13 are well suited for groups. Other site groupings work well depending on the number of sites being reserved. Site #8 is unique in that it has a wood deck/platform for tents. There are also NO wood fires allowed at site #8 as it is under the tree canopy. A propane firepit is provided for your use. You can bring a 5 gallon propane tank from home, or a full one is available for rent on site.
Well behaved dogs are welcome at Finley Camp. All dogs must be kept on leash at all times while on the property. There are no exceptions to this. Finley Camp is located on an active cattle ranch and directly adjacent to a neighboring ranch with cattle.
WE HAVE BEEF AGAIN! Beef is free range grass fed and all naturally raised. Please contact camp host for a price sheet or review price sheet attached to the firewood stand near Site #1.
Also be sure to check out our orchard tours! The apples are ripe now and our verities will continue to ripen thru late November. We'll take you to our family orchard where you can pick apples, pears, or blueberries in season and taste yummy treats out of our family garden.
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Campfires
Tahoe National Forest
4. Tahoe National Forest
93%
(260)
National forest in California · 1382 sites
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
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Inyo National Forest
5. Inyo National Forest
96%
(457)
National forest in California · 1976 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Jug Handle Creek Nature Center
6. Jug Handle Creek Nature Center
96%
(5490)
Caspar, CA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled on 33 acres of coastal meadows and forest, Jug Handle Creek Nature Center is a peaceful, nature-centered campground with a rich history and a truly unique landscape. Saved from development in the 1970s, Jug Handle now stands as a thriving nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to education, restoration, and connection with the natural world.
Just a five-minute walk from Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle Beach, and the renowned Ecological Staircase Trail - a rare geological formation that reveals 500,000 years of coastal history - you’ll find yourself immersed in one of Mendocino County’s most remarkable environments.
We offer 11 spacious campsites, each with two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two vehicles, and plenty of room for tents. Spread out across open meadows and forest edges, the sites offer privacy, quiet, and the soothing sounds of nature.
Explore on-site nature trails, a native plant nursery, and beautiful woodlands, or simply relax beneath the stars.
A few important things to note:
Due to the close proximity of neighboring livestock, as well as the bountiful wildlife that call this special place home, PETS ARE NO LONGER PERMITTED on the premises.
Firewood is not provided, though there are several roadside stands nearby where it is available for purchase.
You'll be pretty independent here. We provide self-check-in for your convenience. Directions and access information (including the bathroom code!) will be messaged to you prior to your stay.
Jug Handle is the perfect place to unplug. There is NO WIFI and LIMITED/NO CELL SERVICE.
Weather and wind can kick up suddenly on the coast. It is your personal responsibility to be prepared and use caution. We reserve the right to ban campfires at any time. We reserve the right to close the campground at any time if conditions are unsafe. Let's work together to stay safe, protect this special place, and enjoy everything the Mendocino Coast has to offer.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
The Ranch at Cross Road
7. The Ranch at Cross Road
96%
(792)
Livermore, CA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to the ranch at cross road! We are a family owned organic farm in the heart of Livermore wine country. We have 12 camp sites spread across the property for you to choose from. The property is 15 minutes from Lake Del Valle and some of the best wineries and breweries California has to offer. Settle in and enjoy amazing sunsets every night with us!
We accommodate tents,Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Pop-up campers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, Class C RVs, Campervans, and Cars.
Our guests love us too! "I had a wonderful stay at Matt’s ranch! It was easy to find even as it was starting to get dark, and the campsites were well lit and easy to find. The ranch is beautiful. It was such a treat to stay here. I would definitely stay again."
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Finnon Lake Recreation Area
8. Finnon Lake Recreation Area
95%
(2571)
Placerville, CA · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
For everyone’s safety, campers under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult. ALL RV VEHICLES AND VEHICLES WITH TRAILERS MUST TAKE ROCK CREEK RD. (Even if your GPS says to use Mosquito Road). These vehicles will not fit and cannot cross the single-lane suspension Mosquito Bridge. These vehicles and trailers will be forced to turn around or back up to take Rock Creek Road. STRICT CANCELLATION POLICY - CANCEL WITHIN 8 DAYS TO RECEIVE A REFUND. OR CONTACT HIPCAMP TO CHANGE YOUR DATES. Smoke on the Water diner is open weekends, 530-622-1060—hours change.
Use caution - twisty, narrow country road. If it's your first time, you might want to check out the route beforehand.
From Sacramento on Hwy 50:
At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile.
Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road.
Turn onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner.
Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe:
Make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions.
Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area!
The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky.
This private lake supports the Mosquito Fire Protection District's fire protection efforts and the firefighters of this community. Community volunteers manage the lake for the residents and the Fire Station.
The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website. Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 27-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Smoke on the Water Diner, which is open on weekends only. 530-622-1060.
During your stay, you can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking. Sites are from post to post.
Our property is located in Placerville, California.
Pets
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Campfires
Saddle Mountain Carmel
9. Saddle Mountain Carmel
92%
(708)
Carmel, CA · 52 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Saddle Mountain, RV and Campground!
We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great family friendly getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life.
Please note, all our sites are pet friendly, but there are additional fees and size limitations depending on the type of site. Please add to the reservation or message us.
On site seasonally heated pool (Memorial Day weekend in May through October).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
*Please continue reviewing/monitoring California Travel guidelines as they may change and affect your reservation*
On site seasonally heated pool (seasonally), private hiking trail, playground, ping pong table and more. No refund for inclement weather during the Winter months.
We provide complementary Wi-Fi in designated areas of the park. We ask that there is no streaming at the Park so we can share Wi-Fi with all our guests.
Thank you!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Shasta-Trinity National Forest
10. Shasta-Trinity National Forest
93%
(138)
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%
(177)
National forest in California · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Los Padres National Forest
12. Los Padres National Forest
95%
(462)
National forest in California · 762 sites
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
San Bernardino National Forest
13. San Bernardino National Forest
94%
(156)
National forest in California · 863 sites
Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)
14. Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)
96%
(81)
Ben Lomond, CA · 4 sites
For over 40 years, Sacred Earth has been cherished by many as an example of sustainable off-grid living immersed in nature. While it is just 12 minutes drive from the village of Ben Lomond, 30 from Santa Cruz beaches, and 90 minutes to Berkeley, this valley feels as though you are deep in the wilds, complete with old growth Redwoods you can stand inside and far- reaching majestic Madrones. The land is home to the headwaters of Love Creek, with springs to be found in fern gullies and gentle babbling brooks. The breathtaking ridgetop has expansive views down the San Lorenzo Valley southeast and westerly views to Ben Lomond Mountain, the final hill between this place and the Pacific. Don’t miss the sunrise with meandering mist rising off the valley. Large sites allow for family and group gatherings/activities, while small tucked in tent sites provide hidden nooks. Hiking trails (open in dry season only) encircle the land and allow for moderate walks throughout its mostly vertical terrain. What is truly dynamic about Sacred Earth is the sheer diversity of plant and animal species combined with its proximity to world-class surfing, sailing, scuba, mountain biking, hiking, birdwatching, etc. Make your stay in Santa Cruz Mountains at SER.
Toilets
Picnic table
Yosemite Colfax Spring
15. Yosemite Colfax Spring
98%
(1122)
Groveland, CA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Yosemite Westlake Camp
16. Yosemite Westlake Camp
89%
(721)
Coulterville, CA · 32 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
Kings Canyon Campground
17. Kings Canyon Campground
92%
(846)
Wilsonia, CA · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
This rustic campground is located in Kings Canyon on hwy 180, 16 miles past the Sequoia-Kings Canyon Park entrance. Magnificent views of Kings Canyon from the property.
Camp sites with picnic tables. Flushing toilets on site. Water and sewer hookups available at rv sites.
Great base camp between both Sequoia and Kings Canyon NP.
6 miles to the mighty Kings River, 12 miles to Grant Grove and the Giant Sequoia’s, 16 miles to Cedar Grove, 22 miles to “Roads End” and trail head for the endless backcountry trails including the Pacific Crest trail. Easy access to General’s Hwy for Sequoia National Park access
Google plus code for maps copy&paste
“ R497+877 Hume Station, California “
Water falls
https://www.travellerselixir.com/sequoia-kings-canyon-waterfall-road-trip/?fbclid=IwdGRjcASKj-9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeyJCbd_Ziq9AzEyj0hDzuuKM4SJKVN2kBn8aDVyl-i15Ss5t6P23TwnWvzGs_aem_He7KWTHRgoRPNy77SnnqUQ
Please note the ice cream and gas are not part of the campground, it is generally open on weekends, however it should not be relied upon.
Pets
Toilets
Water hookup
Cosumnes River Ranch
18. Cosumnes River Ranch
99%
(2064)
Plymouth, CA · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are a family owned/operated ranch, located along the Cosumnes River, one of the last un-dammed rivers in California.
As one of the last rivers flowing from the west slope of the Sierra without a major dam, the Cosumnes is a vital example of a healthy watershed.
Our goal is to offer a unique outdoor experience for anyone looking for a place to spend time in the great outdoors.
Whether you're looking for a single campsite, or a place for a larger gathering, we're excited to have you visit!
Take your pick of activities available on site: swimming , gold panning, fishing, camp fires, wildlife watching, floating, hiking, and mountain biking to name a few. There are 3 miles of river to explore.
*Please note: We don't allow wood campfires during the summer months (generally the last week of May through September)*
Pets
Toilets
Salmon Creek Ranch
19. Salmon Creek Ranch
97%
(3650)
Bodega Bay, CA · 8 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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Campfires
Camp Arroyo Grande
20. Camp Arroyo Grande
96%
(989)
Arroyo Grande, CA · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Camp Arroyo Grande! Enjoy 29-acres that feature beautiful ocean views, oak woodlands, and plenty of rustic charm. All this is conveniently tucked into the hillside just steps away from the Village of Arroyo Grande where you will find restaurants, coffee, shopping, parks and Roosters.
The property is home to many youth groups and local non-profits, continuing a 135-year legacy as an Event Center and Retreat Space. The historic Tabernacle building has been hosting church and schools gatherings, dinners, fundraisers, weddings, family reunions, festivals and more since 1897. Community Events are likely to be taking place but follow quiet time guidelines.
*pool is seasonal and subject to availability
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jenna
3 days ago
Group trip
Had a great time. Very clean and cute. Would definitely stay again. There is electricity in the cabins which I wasn’t sure about when booking. The wild turkeys were a hoot!
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Alejandra
3 days ago
With pets
This Hipcamp was comfortable and had Beautiful views. Seen some deer and turkeys. Host was helpful and attentive..
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O
Olivia
1 week ago
Tent
The site was very nice, we were able to set up a pretty large tent and still had lots of space. Provided with seating area and umbrella. The bathrooms and showers were both awesome and very clean as well! Not far from the Big Flat Oak Entrance of Yosemite, I would say about 20 minutes.
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Zach
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
From the moment we checked in to the moment we left, this place felt like home. The hosts were not only incredibly kind and helpful, but also professional. The site was easy and fun to navigate and the amenities exceeded our expectations.
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J
Jean
2 weeks ago
Tent
Lots of fun things to do
Patrick and his wife are very friendly and helpful
Jean and Bob
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E
Elizabeth
2 weeks ago
22 ft travel trailer
I cannot believe a place like this exists. The location was spectacular. It sits conveniently near so many beautiful places and points of interest. . The campground offers so much. Hiking trails, enchanted path to the beach, the orchard and large camping spaces. Plus the history makes this an endearing place. The campsites are large and easily accommodated our rig. The bathrooms appeared to be new and were spotless.
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W
Wendy
2 weeks ago
Tent
We loved camping at Mystic Forest! It’s so beautiful and peaceful and we had a great time! We would definitely stay there again and highly recommend it!
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J
Jonathan
2 weeks ago
Tent
Nice site layout for tents, has cabins and other... Facilities are good too... Nice evening spent
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L
Luisa
2 weeks ago
Tent
We had a great time! Loved stargazing on the deck and cooking on the campfire. The facilities were clean and convenient and we would stay here again next time we’re planning to visit Yosemite! Thanks Liza and Tom!!
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A
A
2 weeks ago
Tent
Amazing location, great place to camp!
Privacy, views, trails, nice hosts! Thank you!
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N
Nicholas
2 weeks ago
Tent
Nice, flat and spacious sites. The bathroom and shower were clean and well maintained.
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L
Linda
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Van camping. THIS place checks all my boxes. Hiking, river access with great swimming, clean porta potties. Dog friendly.
BARON the hipcamp manager is the nicest guy you’ll ever meet, and is available for all your questions.
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S
Sandy
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
The young owners of this park are fantastic I can't wait to see how the place transforms over time. Note to those who are not used to kids, make sure you campsite is away from the kids play area.
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J
Jonathan
2 weeks ago
Tent
Great place, Maya and Patrick have a good thing going here... Our tent site was fine, surrounded by redwoods and N California vegetation...
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C
Clancy
2 weeks ago
Tent
Fun vibe with lots of flowers, gardens, goats, cows, etc. Great community, and good amenities.
Would recommend a stay here!
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S
Stevie Mae
2 weeks ago
Tent
We had the loveliest time at Hanya’s farm. While we were only there for a quick stop on our road trip south, and we left wishing we could have more time there. Between the comforting atmosphere and welcoming hosts, it was the perfect way to start our trip. Say ‘hi’ to Momma Ginger and Thelma for us!
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M
Marion
2 weeks ago
With pets
We absolutely loved camping here! The land was beautiful and we felt super safe and comfortable the entire time. My girlfriend was especially obsessed with the cows and loved seeing them around the property.
John was super welcoming and really interesting to talk to. He’s lived a pretty interesting life and we really enjoyed getting to chat with him.
We brought our puppy Theo with us and he had the best time running around and exploring the land. It was also really nice having pretty much everything we needed already on site. And the showers were amazing, especially after being outside all day.
Overall we had a really great time here and would definitely come back!
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D
Den
2 weeks ago
23 ft Class B
Group trip
Very nice small getaway over the weekend, by the water. Sites are big enough for 2 rigs, and plenty of space for tents, hike within the area and swim, good for family outings
Will definitely come back
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I
Ian
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
We had a great time. Daniel keeps the sites tidy and clean and plenty of firewood is available for purchase. We loved the foggy mornings and cool nights (although not too cold). It was great to have a campfire and enjoy the outdoors!
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Hasan
2 weeks ago
19 ft campervan
With kids
Comfortable RV or car camping (but I don’t see any reason why tent camping wouldn’t work. There are restrooms and potable water available. The common area has games that helped me entertain a 7 years old. I would definitely go back for a spontaneous getaway and testing my camping equipment
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