- Waterfall Camping
The best waterfall camping near Shafter
97% (446) • 58 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Shafter
Spirit Walk - Private Retreat
1. Spirit Walk - Private Retreat
99%
(569)
43mi from Shafter · 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
$55
/ night
A-Frame Bliss
2. A-Frame Bliss
100%
(25)
44mi from Shafter · 1 site
Learn more about this land:Our beautiful and rustic A-Frame cabin is exactly what you imagine when you dream of a mountain getaway. The cabin is nestled amongst the pine trees with two large decks. Inside, you will enjoy relaxing in the family room which has soaring wood vaulted ceilings and forest views from the floor to ceiling windows. You can imagine sitting in front of a roaring fire in the open style wood fireplace on winter nights and enjoying time on the deck just listening to the forest sounds.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$144
/ night
Romance in the Pines
3. Romance in the Pines
93%
(15)
45mi from Shafter · 1 site
Romance in the Pines is a cozy, hidden gem located 6200 ft high, surrounded by 100 ft pine trees and over 300 year old oak trees.
This magical 2-story cabin sits on a half-acre lot with pines growing right through the large deck. The interior features raw cedar walls, gorgeous wood laminate floors, the comfiest fireplace, carpeted bedrooms and large spectacular view windows.
You can have your morning coffee in the enchanted garden and enjoy sunset on the deck.
Close to the Waterfall Trailhead, a cool and easy hike with a waterfall if there has been rain. Even without the waterfall the views are beautiful. Welcome!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$160
/ night
Sequoia National Forest
4. Sequoia National Forest
98%
(271)
National forest 55mi from Shafter · 905 sites
Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Los Padres National Forest
5. Los Padres National Forest
95%
(452)
National forest 64mi from Shafter · 762 sites
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Kernville Ranch
6. Kernville Ranch
100%
(20)
48mi from Shafter · 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
Wandering Star Ranch
7. Wandering Star Ranch
99%
(46)
48mi from Shafter · 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
Bare All Retreat
8. Bare All Retreat
89%
(46)
43mi from Shafter · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to our 138-acre ranch and farm, nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of our mountainous landscape. With a creek running through the front and steep mountains in the rear, our property offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Explore the many old gold miners trails that crisscross our land, now perfect for horseback riding and OHV adventures. Our working ranch and farm provide a glimpse into traditional agricultural practices, with opportunities to observe and participate in farm activities.
Keep an eye out for free-range cattle roaming the area, adding to the rustic charm of our mountainous terrain. Discover hidden valleys with seasonal waterfalls and year-round springs, offering peaceful retreats and refreshing natural beauty.
Whether you're seeking adventure on the trails, relaxation by the creek, or a glimpse into rural life on the farm, our 138-acre property has something for everyone to enjoy amidst the serene beauty of nature.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$42
/ night
Serenity And Sunshine Cabin
9. Serenity And Sunshine Cabin
100%
(2)
44mi from Shafter · 1 site
Our cozy yet modern cabin is all about relaxation and reconnecting with nature. Breathe in the fresh forest air and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that Pine Mountain Club offers. There are also many opportunities for new adventures golfing, hiking trails, exploring waterfalls and fishing on a lake. Public pool and hot tub with seasonal use. Pine Mountain is one of Southern California's best-kept secrets--a small alpine village with a four-season climate. We have light snow in the Winter, spectacular wildflowers in Spring, and gorgeous Fall colors. It's a wonderful getaway—and yet so close!
Our two-story home is located on a quiet street at 5771 feet. Lovely pine ceilings throughout the cabin contribute to the warm ambience. The 1000 sq. ft. interior is furnished in a modern style with a leather sofa and some cool abstract art on the walls. The living room has a wood stove and 50" smart HDTV with direct satellite & Blu Ray DVD. A skylight in the living room brings in lots of light.
The master bedroom (queen bed) is separate from the downstairs and reached via a spiral staircase leading up to French doors. The master bathroom adjoins the bedroom and has a skylight over the double length tiled shower. A second bedroom downstairs has a murphy bed with a queen size mattress. There is air conditioning in the living room as well as in the upstairs bedroom and 2 fans are provided-- although generally temps are not above 85 degrees on a hot day and generally drop into the 60's in the evening.
Upper and lower decks offer lovely views of Mt. Pinos and the San Emigdio range. Relax on the sunny decks or in the Adirondack chair near the pond surrounded by pine trees. Plan to do some bbqing--it is so pleasant to do some grilling on the upper deck bbq and dine outdoors.
Our cabin is clean and well-kept. It can comfortably accommodate 4 people. Please NO smoking or pets!
Mt. Pinos has the best view of the stars in So. California—star parties are common whenever there is a new moon. In addition, since we are in the Padres National Forest - wildlife (deer, raccoons, bobcat, fox, bunnies, squirrels, quail, stellar and scrub jays) abounds. Ra
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$189
/ night
Spectacular A-Frame. Epic views!!
10. Spectacular A-Frame. Epic views!!
88%
(4)
44mi from Shafter · 1 site
Welcome to Wild Elk Sleepover!
This charming A-Frame cabin is nestled on a serene hillside between Lake Isabella, Alta Sierra and Kernville.
Fill your lungs with the fresh Autumn air. This valley is the California mountains' best kept secret.
- Stunning mountain & lake views
- Spacious deck
- Full kitchen
- Retro gaming system in bedroom TV
- Cozy fire pit
- Comfy mattresses
- Mini split AC in every room
- Dog Friendly!
Perfect base for all your adventures. Unwind and rejuvenate!
Cheers!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$126
/ night
Rivergate Cabin
11. Rivergate Cabin
47mi from Shafter · 1 site
Nestled in Sequoia National Forest, this custom cabin boasts unbeatable views with BACKYARD ACCESS to the Kern River and PRIVATE BEACH! It is a Kernville gem, blending modern/tribal themes with a vaulted wood ceiling, real River Rock fireplace, open living area, rec/game room, secluded deck, modern chef's kitchen, multiple picnic areas and the Kern River flowing through the BACKYARD! Rivergate offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$360
/ night
97% (446) • 58 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Shafter
Spirit Walk - Private Retreat
1. Spirit Walk - Private Retreat
99%
(569)
43mi from Shafter · 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
$55
/ night
A-Frame Bliss
2. A-Frame Bliss
100%
(25)
44mi from Shafter · 1 site
Learn more about this land:Our beautiful and rustic A-Frame cabin is exactly what you imagine when you dream of a mountain getaway. The cabin is nestled amongst the pine trees with two large decks. Inside, you will enjoy relaxing in the family room which has soaring wood vaulted ceilings and forest views from the floor to ceiling windows. You can imagine sitting in front of a roaring fire in the open style wood fireplace on winter nights and enjoying time on the deck just listening to the forest sounds.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$144
/ night
Romance in the Pines
3. Romance in the Pines
93%
(15)
45mi from Shafter · 1 site
Romance in the Pines is a cozy, hidden gem located 6200 ft high, surrounded by 100 ft pine trees and over 300 year old oak trees.
This magical 2-story cabin sits on a half-acre lot with pines growing right through the large deck. The interior features raw cedar walls, gorgeous wood laminate floors, the comfiest fireplace, carpeted bedrooms and large spectacular view windows.
You can have your morning coffee in the enchanted garden and enjoy sunset on the deck.
Close to the Waterfall Trailhead, a cool and easy hike with a waterfall if there has been rain. Even without the waterfall the views are beautiful. Welcome!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$160
/ night
Sequoia National Forest
4. Sequoia National Forest
98%
(271)
National forest 55mi from Shafter · 905 sites
Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Los Padres National Forest
5. Los Padres National Forest
95%
(452)
National forest 64mi from Shafter · 762 sites
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Kernville Ranch
6. Kernville Ranch
100%
(20)
48mi from Shafter · 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
Wandering Star Ranch
7. Wandering Star Ranch
99%
(46)
48mi from Shafter · 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
Bare All Retreat
8. Bare All Retreat
89%
(46)
43mi from Shafter · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to our 138-acre ranch and farm, nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of our mountainous landscape. With a creek running through the front and steep mountains in the rear, our property offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Explore the many old gold miners trails that crisscross our land, now perfect for horseback riding and OHV adventures. Our working ranch and farm provide a glimpse into traditional agricultural practices, with opportunities to observe and participate in farm activities.
Keep an eye out for free-range cattle roaming the area, adding to the rustic charm of our mountainous terrain. Discover hidden valleys with seasonal waterfalls and year-round springs, offering peaceful retreats and refreshing natural beauty.
Whether you're seeking adventure on the trails, relaxation by the creek, or a glimpse into rural life on the farm, our 138-acre property has something for everyone to enjoy amidst the serene beauty of nature.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$42
/ night
Serenity And Sunshine Cabin
9. Serenity And Sunshine Cabin
100%
(2)
44mi from Shafter · 1 site
Our cozy yet modern cabin is all about relaxation and reconnecting with nature. Breathe in the fresh forest air and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that Pine Mountain Club offers. There are also many opportunities for new adventures golfing, hiking trails, exploring waterfalls and fishing on a lake. Public pool and hot tub with seasonal use. Pine Mountain is one of Southern California's best-kept secrets--a small alpine village with a four-season climate. We have light snow in the Winter, spectacular wildflowers in Spring, and gorgeous Fall colors. It's a wonderful getaway—and yet so close!
Our two-story home is located on a quiet street at 5771 feet. Lovely pine ceilings throughout the cabin contribute to the warm ambience. The 1000 sq. ft. interior is furnished in a modern style with a leather sofa and some cool abstract art on the walls. The living room has a wood stove and 50" smart HDTV with direct satellite & Blu Ray DVD. A skylight in the living room brings in lots of light.
The master bedroom (queen bed) is separate from the downstairs and reached via a spiral staircase leading up to French doors. The master bathroom adjoins the bedroom and has a skylight over the double length tiled shower. A second bedroom downstairs has a murphy bed with a queen size mattress. There is air conditioning in the living room as well as in the upstairs bedroom and 2 fans are provided-- although generally temps are not above 85 degrees on a hot day and generally drop into the 60's in the evening.
Upper and lower decks offer lovely views of Mt. Pinos and the San Emigdio range. Relax on the sunny decks or in the Adirondack chair near the pond surrounded by pine trees. Plan to do some bbqing--it is so pleasant to do some grilling on the upper deck bbq and dine outdoors.
Our cabin is clean and well-kept. It can comfortably accommodate 4 people. Please NO smoking or pets!
Mt. Pinos has the best view of the stars in So. California—star parties are common whenever there is a new moon. In addition, since we are in the Padres National Forest - wildlife (deer, raccoons, bobcat, fox, bunnies, squirrels, quail, stellar and scrub jays) abounds. Ra
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$189
/ night
Spectacular A-Frame. Epic views!!
10. Spectacular A-Frame. Epic views!!
88%
(4)
44mi from Shafter · 1 site
Welcome to Wild Elk Sleepover!
This charming A-Frame cabin is nestled on a serene hillside between Lake Isabella, Alta Sierra and Kernville.
Fill your lungs with the fresh Autumn air. This valley is the California mountains' best kept secret.
- Stunning mountain & lake views
- Spacious deck
- Full kitchen
- Retro gaming system in bedroom TV
- Cozy fire pit
- Comfy mattresses
- Mini split AC in every room
- Dog Friendly!
Perfect base for all your adventures. Unwind and rejuvenate!
Cheers!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$126
/ night
Rivergate Cabin
11. Rivergate Cabin
47mi from Shafter · 1 site
Nestled in Sequoia National Forest, this custom cabin boasts unbeatable views with BACKYARD ACCESS to the Kern River and PRIVATE BEACH! It is a Kernville gem, blending modern/tribal themes with a vaulted wood ceiling, real River Rock fireplace, open living area, rec/game room, secluded deck, modern chef's kitchen, multiple picnic areas and the Kern River flowing through the BACKYARD! Rivergate offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$360
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Natalie
4 days 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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J
Jonathan
2 weeks ago
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
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. :)
See more
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!
See more
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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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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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!
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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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Lenzo
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
Even on an extremely rainy day it was a great experience camping at Stargazer, when you arrive John will give you an introduction tour, and we really appreciated the moderate amount of equipment and amenities provided to us, the communal bathroom was really clean and campground has nice vibes!
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E
Emily
November 2025
Group trip
We had a great stay! The cabin is very cute and clean, Bernhard was a clear communicator, and we loved it. Highly recommend!
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DL
November 2025
Tent
I almost didn’t want to write this review as this place is so good. I want to keep it a secret. John and his wife were there to meet me as I pulled up and gave me a quick tour. Word cannot describe the beauty of this land. the place is kept immaculate all the amenities of the best campsites and more. They fit in all the comforts without spoiling any of the rustic beauty. I am definitely coming back. Thank you John.
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S
Sheryl
November 2025
With pets
Traveled with family and our dog and loved the fresh air, trails and cozy ambiance of the A-Frame bliss. Would def go again
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Emily
October 2025
Tent
This was my second time solo camping at Spirit Walk, and it was just as beautiful as the first. Tranquil, lovingly cared for, sacred space, with just enough thoughtful infrastructure to be supportive while not diminishing the feeling of wildness. There was enough fresh, cold water in the swimming hole to submerge my body - even in the fall, when many places are dry. The plants around were beautiful, and I had the place to myself besides my interspecies kin (including curious deer and bobcat). John, his partner, and lil puppy come to help you get oriented, and are cool and kind as well. Would recommend Spirit Walk to anyone looking for a peaceful way to commune with the land.
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M
Mauricio
October 2025
Group trip
What stood out is not only the beautiful views but the water stream that goes through the property. Very peaceful & Cory & his wife are very welcoming and helpful!
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Evan
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
Loved camping at this site with my friends. There was a ton of space and we were so close to everything we wanted to do. The property backs up to BLM land so if you step out the back gate you’re able to hike beautiful peaks. There’s a pontoon feature that provides great shade, a perfect place to hang a hammock, and stunning views. There’s property is just five minutes from the lake and nature preserve where we fished all week. Mark was a great host and answered all questions leading up to the trip. This was a trip for my best friends bachelor party and was the perfect spot for our group. Couldn’t have been happier. Will definitely be back with my wife soon. Thanks Mark!
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Mafe
September 2025
Group trip
Such a beautiful cabin with so much unique charm. The property itself is stunning, with horses nearby and a stream running right by the hot tub. It made for such a peaceful and memorable stay—I’d highly recommend it.
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A
A
September 2025
With pets
Wonderful property right off the roadway for easy access to the cabin. Host was very friendly, considerate, and communicative. I’ll rebook any time I’m in the area for work or play :)!
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J
Jordan
September 2025
Weekend Trip to A-Frame Bliss
This cabin was perfect for a weekend getaway for my girlfriend and I. I would highly recommend this place for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors
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Rj
September 2025
Tent
We enjoyed a quiet Labor Day weekend at Oak Tree campsite. Despite the holiday weekend, there were only a few other campers. It was lovely and calm. The common kitchen was well equipped—we cooked a few meals with food we brought. The creek was flowing just enough for a dip. Enjoyed the outdoor shower, too! We spent a nice day driving north of Kernville and doing some hiking and swimming along the river. All descriptions on Hipcamp were accurate regarding walking gear in from your car, close proximity of some sites to each other, etc. We look forward to returning soon!
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