- Hot Spring Camping
The best hot spring camping near Lake Isabella
99% (1.1K) • 719 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Isabella
Spirit Walk - Private Retreat
1. Spirit Walk - Private Retreat
99%
(570)
5.4mi from Lake Isabella · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Private ADULT ONLY camping. With a central outdoor kitchen and dining area, group fire pit, and a bathroom with a composting toilet, sink and shower. Seasonal creek. Quiet and private.
Stargazer and the Boulders have their own fire pit, and there's a communal fire pit too.
We have a small cabin (The Playhouse) and 9 campsites. Each campsite will accommodate a medium size tent (10’x10’ max), except for The Boulders which will accommodate more.
No Pets, No Smoking
ADULTS ONLY. Spirit Walk is a quiet meditative place. It is not a conducive environment for young children. Thank you for understanding.
Lake Isabella, the Kern River and historic Kernville are just 5 minutes down the road.
All Hipcamp proceeds go directly back into the land in the way of forest maintenance, a tree planting program and improvements to the facilities.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
Wandering Star Ranch
2. Wandering Star Ranch
99%
(46)
6.8mi from Lake Isabella · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:
Why book a camp site when you can book the campground? The Wandering Star is a private 20 acre dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental.
Bring a lock (Gate and Chain provided) and claim your retreat.
Take your jeep or ATVs through our gates straight into the BrightStar BLM Wilderness which abuts the property on two sides and extends into the Jawbone wilderness. Beginners can ride the extensive trails on the property itself. Play your music, dance naked, let your dogs run free... Enjoy the fantastic star gazing. Visit the primitive firing range a two minute walk away or by jeep, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking. Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake .
Situated on the back side of the lake, this site provides more sunlight time than many other sites around the lake. In some cases close to 2 hours.
Close to the lake at Mt. Mesa, boat launch, South fork Audubon nature preserve, restaurants, and scenic back road to Kernville.
Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away.
(Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$100
/ night
Kernville Ranch
3. Kernville Ranch
100%
(20)
8.6mi from Lake Isabella · 4 sites
Nestled in meadows with a private river flowing through horse pastures, tall shade trees and all natural cedar hot tub. Kernville Ranch is just a 5 minute walk from the center of Kernville. Plenty of fishing and white water rafting, hiking and hot springs and snow play depending on the season. Explore the lake for water-sports, the high country for pristine wilderness and a little snow. The town is full of restaurants, antiques stores, and a wonderful museum of the rich heritage of this Wild West town,
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$72
/ night
Sequoia National Forest
4. Sequoia National Forest
98%
(271)
National forest 28mi from Lake Isabella · 905 sites
Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Double Triangle Ranch
5. Double Triangle Ranch
98%
(58)
8.9mi from Lake Isabella · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Once settled by Tubatulabel and Shoshoni tribes, this area is rich with reminders of their habitation.
Grinding rocks near Tipi camp are one of those.
When gold was discovered in the Kern River Valley, most of the native tribes were displaced but their decendents here in the KRV keep the history alive with language studies and cultural events.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$41
/ night
This is Outdoor Living
6. This is Outdoor Living
97%
(419)
38mi from Lake Isabella · 3 sites
Located in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains on the land of the Yokut people and bordering the Giant Sequoia National Monument, this 12-acre homestead (known simply as the Land) stretches along both sides of the Tule River and offers exceptional camping and outdoor experiential events.
The habits and vision of owners reflects the Land's beauty and pristine natural habitats, inspiring daily living practices that reveres nature. The Land is their home and headquarters for organizing events that change the world and mindset of communities regarding respect for nature. The Land is nestled on Blue oak woodland and riparian (river) habitat in the foothills of the Giant Sequoia National Monument and offers the ultimate in privacy and completely dark night skies.
We offer the listed campsites here on Hipcamp plus gorgeous outdoor venues tailored for small-scale special events and featuring a covered outdoor kitchen and BBQ area, outdoor living and bedroom spaces, fireplaces and fire pits and two outdoor showers. It is rustic and best suited for those with camping experience and a genuine love of nature. Reach us for special event details.
See pics and videos at www.wildplaces.net/campsites-1
All visitors must register online at www.wildplaces.net to receive details, directions, and a liability waiver to sign. We ask each member of a visiting group to complete this online waiver.
Toilets are composting or chemical and the hotwater shower is tucked inside the majestic canopy of a live oak tree. The toilets are located near the house which is a 5 minute walk or less from most sites.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$55
/ night
Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents
7. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents
98%
(610)
41mi from Lake Isabella · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Swimming in North Fork Tule River, miles of hiking trails on ranch. River Ridge Ranch goes from 1,000' elev. to 3,000' elevation. Hike right on the ranch. We are between Sequoia National Park (about an hour) and the Giant Sequoia National Monument (16 miles to groves up Hwy 190 and no entrance fee).
Choose from individual tent sites, group tent sites, tiny cabins. the 5-acre Compound or the Entire Ranch.
We occasionally host small, thoughtful, low impact weddings. Please inquire.
There are 33 giant sequoia groves in our Southern Region of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, some easily driven to, and some remote. Our ranch is a nature preserve and an education demonstration site, teaching sustainable and regenerative land use practices. River Ridge Institute, our non-profit, hosts a variety of events for the public.
Please note: you are expected to leave the ranch and kitchen area as you found it, i.e., dishes washed thoroughly and dried and put away, recycling separated from trash, food scraps in compost buckets, sticky marshmallow removed from forks and surfaces (ick!). Thank you.
Enjoy: The Kitchen has a 3-burner cooktop, large fridge, microwave, full dishes and utensils and pots and pans with a big washing area in the back. Propane barbecue grill.. There's a River Barn to use as a remote space and Turtle Cove for swimming. Saturday morning Farmer's Market in downtown at 9 AM - Noon.
Ancestral land of the Foothill Yokuts tribe. Homesteaded in 1859, owned by the Negus family from 1909-2000. Barbara and I bought it to save it from subdivision and it's now protected by a Conservation Easement and acts as a community center for the arts, music, poetry, gatherings and outdoor education. We're both biologists, so, just ask us.
Please see the Rules and Safety section to review our Waiver of Liability.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Comfortable Guest RV W/ EV Charger
8. Comfortable Guest RV W/ EV Charger
3.3mi from Lake Isabella · 1 site
Ever wanted to live in an RV? Here’s your chance to stay in one—without the expense of owning it!
Our RV features a comfortable king-size bed that easily sleeps one, two, or even two and a half—perfect for mommy, daddy, and baby. There’s also a second, individual daybed for extra sleeping space.
The kitchen comes equipped with an electric stove, coffee maker, toaster, refrigerator, and microwave. The bathroom, though small, has everything you need. The dining table seats four, and the views out the back are quite lovely.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$117
/ night
Split Mountain Retreat
9. Split Mountain Retreat
94%
(8)
6.2mi from Lake Isabella · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Split Mountain Retreat!
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Enjoy amazing lake and mountain views from our Mountain Top Studio or our large, level RV campsite. Unobstructed 360* views, complete privacy, acres of land to roam and full RV hookups.
There is a studio apartment and two RV locations, each with 50amp and 30amp; 120V outlets and septic connections. A covered area with picnic tables and a sitting area with Adirondack chairs.
28 acre property surrounded by BLM land. Hiking abounds. Multiple sitting areas for meditation or enjoying the spectacular view.
No close neighbors. Complete privacy, peace and quiet.
No Smoking. No Parties.
Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature at our private mountain top retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$84
/ night
99% (1.1K) • 719 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Isabella
Spirit Walk - Private Retreat
1. Spirit Walk - Private Retreat
99%
(570)
5.4mi from Lake Isabella · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Private ADULT ONLY camping. With a central outdoor kitchen and dining area, group fire pit, and a bathroom with a composting toilet, sink and shower. Seasonal creek. Quiet and private.
Stargazer and the Boulders have their own fire pit, and there's a communal fire pit too.
We have a small cabin (The Playhouse) and 9 campsites. Each campsite will accommodate a medium size tent (10’x10’ max), except for The Boulders which will accommodate more.
No Pets, No Smoking
ADULTS ONLY. Spirit Walk is a quiet meditative place. It is not a conducive environment for young children. Thank you for understanding.
Lake Isabella, the Kern River and historic Kernville are just 5 minutes down the road.
All Hipcamp proceeds go directly back into the land in the way of forest maintenance, a tree planting program and improvements to the facilities.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
Wandering Star Ranch
2. Wandering Star Ranch
99%
(46)
6.8mi from Lake Isabella · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:
Why book a camp site when you can book the campground? The Wandering Star is a private 20 acre dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental.
Bring a lock (Gate and Chain provided) and claim your retreat.
Take your jeep or ATVs through our gates straight into the BrightStar BLM Wilderness which abuts the property on two sides and extends into the Jawbone wilderness. Beginners can ride the extensive trails on the property itself. Play your music, dance naked, let your dogs run free... Enjoy the fantastic star gazing. Visit the primitive firing range a two minute walk away or by jeep, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking. Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake .
Situated on the back side of the lake, this site provides more sunlight time than many other sites around the lake. In some cases close to 2 hours.
Close to the lake at Mt. Mesa, boat launch, South fork Audubon nature preserve, restaurants, and scenic back road to Kernville.
Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away.
(Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$100
/ night
Kernville Ranch
3. Kernville Ranch
100%
(20)
8.6mi from Lake Isabella · 4 sites
Nestled in meadows with a private river flowing through horse pastures, tall shade trees and all natural cedar hot tub. Kernville Ranch is just a 5 minute walk from the center of Kernville. Plenty of fishing and white water rafting, hiking and hot springs and snow play depending on the season. Explore the lake for water-sports, the high country for pristine wilderness and a little snow. The town is full of restaurants, antiques stores, and a wonderful museum of the rich heritage of this Wild West town,
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$72
/ night
Sequoia National Forest
4. Sequoia National Forest
98%
(271)
National forest 28mi from Lake Isabella · 905 sites
Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Double Triangle Ranch
5. Double Triangle Ranch
98%
(58)
8.9mi from Lake Isabella · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Once settled by Tubatulabel and Shoshoni tribes, this area is rich with reminders of their habitation.
Grinding rocks near Tipi camp are one of those.
When gold was discovered in the Kern River Valley, most of the native tribes were displaced but their decendents here in the KRV keep the history alive with language studies and cultural events.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$41
/ night
This is Outdoor Living
6. This is Outdoor Living
97%
(419)
38mi from Lake Isabella · 3 sites
Located in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains on the land of the Yokut people and bordering the Giant Sequoia National Monument, this 12-acre homestead (known simply as the Land) stretches along both sides of the Tule River and offers exceptional camping and outdoor experiential events.
The habits and vision of owners reflects the Land's beauty and pristine natural habitats, inspiring daily living practices that reveres nature. The Land is their home and headquarters for organizing events that change the world and mindset of communities regarding respect for nature. The Land is nestled on Blue oak woodland and riparian (river) habitat in the foothills of the Giant Sequoia National Monument and offers the ultimate in privacy and completely dark night skies.
We offer the listed campsites here on Hipcamp plus gorgeous outdoor venues tailored for small-scale special events and featuring a covered outdoor kitchen and BBQ area, outdoor living and bedroom spaces, fireplaces and fire pits and two outdoor showers. It is rustic and best suited for those with camping experience and a genuine love of nature. Reach us for special event details.
See pics and videos at www.wildplaces.net/campsites-1
All visitors must register online at www.wildplaces.net to receive details, directions, and a liability waiver to sign. We ask each member of a visiting group to complete this online waiver.
Toilets are composting or chemical and the hotwater shower is tucked inside the majestic canopy of a live oak tree. The toilets are located near the house which is a 5 minute walk or less from most sites.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$55
/ night
Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents
7. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents
98%
(610)
41mi from Lake Isabella · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Swimming in North Fork Tule River, miles of hiking trails on ranch. River Ridge Ranch goes from 1,000' elev. to 3,000' elevation. Hike right on the ranch. We are between Sequoia National Park (about an hour) and the Giant Sequoia National Monument (16 miles to groves up Hwy 190 and no entrance fee).
Choose from individual tent sites, group tent sites, tiny cabins. the 5-acre Compound or the Entire Ranch.
We occasionally host small, thoughtful, low impact weddings. Please inquire.
There are 33 giant sequoia groves in our Southern Region of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, some easily driven to, and some remote. Our ranch is a nature preserve and an education demonstration site, teaching sustainable and regenerative land use practices. River Ridge Institute, our non-profit, hosts a variety of events for the public.
Please note: you are expected to leave the ranch and kitchen area as you found it, i.e., dishes washed thoroughly and dried and put away, recycling separated from trash, food scraps in compost buckets, sticky marshmallow removed from forks and surfaces (ick!). Thank you.
Enjoy: The Kitchen has a 3-burner cooktop, large fridge, microwave, full dishes and utensils and pots and pans with a big washing area in the back. Propane barbecue grill.. There's a River Barn to use as a remote space and Turtle Cove for swimming. Saturday morning Farmer's Market in downtown at 9 AM - Noon.
Ancestral land of the Foothill Yokuts tribe. Homesteaded in 1859, owned by the Negus family from 1909-2000. Barbara and I bought it to save it from subdivision and it's now protected by a Conservation Easement and acts as a community center for the arts, music, poetry, gatherings and outdoor education. We're both biologists, so, just ask us.
Please see the Rules and Safety section to review our Waiver of Liability.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Comfortable Guest RV W/ EV Charger
8. Comfortable Guest RV W/ EV Charger
3.3mi from Lake Isabella · 1 site
Ever wanted to live in an RV? Here’s your chance to stay in one—without the expense of owning it!
Our RV features a comfortable king-size bed that easily sleeps one, two, or even two and a half—perfect for mommy, daddy, and baby. There’s also a second, individual daybed for extra sleeping space.
The kitchen comes equipped with an electric stove, coffee maker, toaster, refrigerator, and microwave. The bathroom, though small, has everything you need. The dining table seats four, and the views out the back are quite lovely.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$117
/ night
Split Mountain Retreat
9. Split Mountain Retreat
94%
(8)
6.2mi from Lake Isabella · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Split Mountain Retreat!
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Enjoy amazing lake and mountain views from our Mountain Top Studio or our large, level RV campsite. Unobstructed 360* views, complete privacy, acres of land to roam and full RV hookups.
There is a studio apartment and two RV locations, each with 50amp and 30amp; 120V outlets and septic connections. A covered area with picnic tables and a sitting area with Adirondack chairs.
28 acre property surrounded by BLM land. Hiking abounds. Multiple sitting areas for meditation or enjoying the spectacular view.
No close neighbors. Complete privacy, peace and quiet.
No Smoking. No Parties.
Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature at our private mountain top retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$84
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Andrew
1 week ago
Tent
This is a very cool piece of property. The location itself is close to town for easy ice runs, but you feel like you’re away from everything , but still have a bar or two on the cell. The sites are each unique and hold their own identity and the kitchen is well stocked, just bring food. The outdoor shower is a MUST try, perfect for rinsing off after a hike.
John was very easy to work with and made me feel welcome. I will definitely be back.
See more
Natalie
2 weeks ago
Tent
Camping at Creepside at John's site was lovely. My partner and I bbq'd there at the fire pit, and there's also a full kitchen with a gas BBQ and stove. The camp is surrounded by trees and has really great views of the stars. The spot also isn't that far from Kernville if you want to go into a small town. I loved hearing the river right outside our camp, so if you like natural white noise when you sleep, I would definitely choose that camp.
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Auzzsa
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Spirit Walk - Private Retreat
The Playhouse was a sweet and cozy stay on John’s land. This was my first time in the Playhouse, having previously camped at the group site. The amenities are clean, easy to use, and well constructed. The Playhouse came well stocked. The views from each window inside the Playhouse were gorgeous, if you’re looking for a relaxing weekend inside.
The shared kitchen is a fun space to commingle with other campers, if desired. We were able to check out the local creek that runs through his property, and have a lovely breakfast. I’d highly recommend visiting ant part of John’s property.
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J
Jonathan
March 2026
Tent
Group trip
Camping on Marks land was fun. There is lots of room to set up, bathroom was clean, BLM land was a bonus
See more
A
Alyssa
February 2026
Weekend Trip to Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents
Gary was an excellent host. The ranch is absolutely incredible scenery, a perfect writing retreat! I was comfortable in the cabin I chose and I felt safe on the property.
The camp has Gary’s installation art scattered throughout, a community center with shared kitchen and a large fire pit. There’s nice trails and easy access to the creek.
Planning my next escape here as soon as I can!
Thanks Gary!
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Robert
February 2026
28 ft travel trailer
With kids
Great camp site! Set up nicely. Host was great and directions on point. The view was amazing we loved it and plan to go back. Thanks John and JD!
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Brian
February 2026
20 ft travel trailer
With kids
The place was phenomenal! The view was amazing. The host was super accommodating and very friendly. The grounds were spotless and the RV connection were well maintained looked brand new. Only minutes from Kernville. Will definitely return. Thank you again!
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j
jessica
February 2026
Tent
We had such an amazing stay here! What we loved most was how secluded and private it felt. It’s the perfect place to truly unplug and relax, yet it still offers great amenities that made our stay comfortable.
We camped in our pop-up truck tent, and the space felt peaceful and spacious. The outdoor showers were a great touch, and the huge communal fire pits made evenings feel cozy and welcoming. There’s also a shared kitchen area and BBQs, which made cooking easy and convenient.
The property has beautiful hiking trails and access to the river, which made it feel like a true nature getaway. It was quiet, serene, and exactly what we were looking for.
Gary is also a great host and very responsive.
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape with just the right balance of rustic charm and comfort, this is it. We’ll definitely be back!
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David
January 2026
22 ft travel trailer
With kids
The campsite was very quiet with stunning views all the way around. Hookups all worked perfectly and the location was close to everything we wanted to do. One of our favorite HipCamp sites we’ve used so far!!
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G
Greg
January 2026
Tent
Group trip
Great site and area, would definitely recommend. Nobody else is nearby so you have the privacy of the whole lot. All amenities onsite are well taken care of. Everything we needed was there and the bathroom was freshly cleaned for us. The shooting range onsite was great and having the BLM Land right against the property line was awesome. Highly recommend.
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John
January 2026
15 ft campervan
John was very patient as I was a Hipcamp newbie. I was also coming in last minute on a cold and chilly January night. He gave excellent directions and in the morning I was treated to a beautiful crisp Sierra morning. Location was private and beautiful, but the sound of all winter creek rushing close by. I had the place to myself, but there was plenty of room between locations. I would gladly go back and hope to a in warmer weather. :)
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lauryn
January 2026
Tent
The property is absolutely beautiful! We stayed at the Stargazer spot where we had plenty of room and a cozy fireplace. The bathroom was clean and well kept and the property was equipped with an extremely well stocked easy to use kitchen. We will definitely be staying again!
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Kate
January 2026
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Mark‘s Hipcamp. It was perfect for four teenage boys and a dog to run around and let loose. We used it as a basecamp to explore Sequoia National Park and Lake Isabella. There is a pontoon, a large concrete slab with picnic tables, and a clean porta-potty. We happened to get excellent weather during late December and the property was green and beautiful. There is hiking to mountains directly behind the property as well as ORV trails. Plus, there are beautiful views of the lake and mountains. We also ordered the $60 bundle of wood that had large high-quality logs. Mark was quick to respond to questions and offered us advice for places to go. Overall, this property exceeded our expectations. I highly recommend this Hipcamp! (as a sidenote, do not follow the directions from Apple or Google to turn off Larson. You can take Larson from the highway all the way back to the property.)
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C
Carly
December 2025
1 night at Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents
A lovely set of cabins in the hills, with really cute communal areas (we loved the bonfire area!)
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peter
December 2025
2 nights at Spirit Walk - Private Retreat
Had the most wonderful time at playhouse in spirit camp. I felt comfortable and communication was a 10/10 throughout the experience. I would definitely recommend!
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Sandy
December 2025
1 night at Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents
My girlfriend and I really enjoyed staying at the Cottonwood cabin! It was a nice cozy space and the scenery was sooo beautiful! I got to enjoy my breakfast on a big rock by the river and it was the perfect way to start my day. The restrooms were really nice and well kept! Overall it was a super comfortable lodging experience.
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Maria
November 2025
Tent
My bf and I enjoyed our stay at Stargazer. It was quiet, clean, secluded and spacious! We loved that there were hot showers and clean toilets. We were the only one booked in the campground and we used the outdoor shower. The outdoor shower felt like we were showering in the middle of the forest! The creek is also so close to the campsite that you can hear it and it’s so relaxing. We cant wait to be back in the spring to go white water rafting!
See moreD
Daniel
November 2025
1 night at Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents
It was a great experience coming here! A lot to do around and a good price for what you get. While the two story cabin was just two beds, the best part was the grounds that you get.
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Michelle
November 2025
Tent
We had such a rejuvenating time tent camping on John’s land. The campsites were spacious, clean, and thoughtfully set up. The kitchen area and bathroom had everything we could possibly need — so organized, easy to find, and even hot water. We especially loved the outdoor shower, and really appreciated the walk-through tour over the phone with John when we arrived.
We stayed at the Stargazer site and it was unforgettable. Perfect, wide-open views of the stars and a cozy chimenea to sit beside the fire while we watched the sky all night. Truly such a special spot.
We will absolutely be back for future trips!
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J
Jennifer
November 2025
Group trip
Very beautiful land and so thankful for the kitchen only advice is to drive before dark to ensure you don’t get lost but instructions are clear
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