Whaleback Ranch Camp and Tub
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents34 acres · Calistoga, CA*See @whalebackranch on IG for updated photos and videos.
Welcome to Whaleback Ranch, "the Ranch" as I grew up, with "the Whaleback" to the Northern edge of our property. I grew up here, and the land has been in our family for 4 generations now. We've recently made many fun improvements for our own use, including the camp, bathtubs, shower, and trails - and we're excited to offer them. We do this for fun and a little extra income as a teacher (Dan) and artist (Mariah).
Mariah is also the gardener; I have built most of the camp out of recycled redwood. The treehouse is a peaceful and safe relaxation haven; feel free to sleep up there, but at your own risk:) In the MAIN CAMP, there are plenty of tables and chairs to help you decide which view is most beautiful, behind newly installed privacy shades between our house (for two of the campsites that share the hilltop with our house). In that camp is the main outdoor shower and bathtub which you fill with our mineral-rich well water (filtered, iron-rich water). There is an outdoor kitchen space, with dry storage for everything inside the yellow shed. Feel free to bring cutting boards and utensils, etc. from the shed, and use the gas grill and outside outlets to heat food/drink with hot pot and coffee fixins for the morning. There is also access to a mini-fridge and microwave in the shed if needed.
You're welcome to explore any parts of the property north of the driveway, depending on other campers being there; we generally hang out on our deck or opposite side of the house south of the driveway and enjoy our own space.
*For hiking, you can get to "The Whaleback" by walking down past the Coral Cabin and toilet, taking your first left and following the main trails which will cover the edges of our 34 acres, about 30 min. hike to the top of the ridge.
*The hilltop camp is near our main residence, but separated by a communal shed and privacy shades/fences. You may see/hear cars come and go, but we are a quiet and friendly couple (and Mariah's here only half time, splitting custody of her kids).
*There is an outdoor compost toilet. You cover your biz with leaves and it starts breaking down, eliminates odor, and will be regenerated into new soil (eventually) to grow flowers. Generally please pee in a bush, or use the commode and dump it in the bushes if you prefer. We generally provide TP, but please bring a roll of toilet paper to be sure it is available and dry.
*We have two dogs! Both are super friendly, but the husky ("Beautiful") will bark at first, followed by our new 1-year old puppy Paloma. They both make friends quickly; feel free to meet her and show you're friendly, then ignore her and/or play with them! But please don't feed them, and watch your food (!). If you bring pets, please just introduce them slowly at first, and then they should get along famously. Throwing a toy or stick should work, or if available, give them treats from the camp to leave you alone. We let them out in the morning and evening but try to keep them out of your space most of the time.
*There are five options to rent: The (private lower) Wedding Spot Safari Tent 6x10 ft. ($95/night with sep. shower/toilet/camp), the hilltop Coral Cabin 10x10 ft. ($105/night), the Hilltop Campsite ($65/night), the Shelf Campsite ($55/night), and the RV-only spot ($40/night with no amenities). As much as I am able, I try to limit renting both the hilltop Coral Cabin and Hilltop Campsite, but you may share the kitchen facilities with the Shelf campers, who have their own space. The (private lower) Wedding Spot Safari Tent has all its own amenities and RV-only spot has no amenities.
*This is a beautiful, serene, and peaceful spot! We invite you to come contribute to that energy.