The best lakeside camping in Southern California

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Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking for a camping experience near the lake in Southern California, you're in luck. We have over 374 options available specifically in Southern California that cater to your preference. With an average price per night of $42 and options as low as $11, you can find the perfect campsite that fits your budget. Some of our top campsites in the area include DESERT DAISY - Joshua Tree rural (295 reviews), Owlbee Farm (175 reviews), and Arber-Moore's Ranch (158 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities such as potable water, showers, and are pet-friendly. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, you'll have plenty to do, including whitewater paddling, exploring historic sites, and biking. So get ready to immerse yourself in nature and create unforgettable memories at one of our Southern California lake campsites!

91% (603) 2,474 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Southern California

Arber-Moore's Ranch

1. Arber-Moore's Ranch

93%
(613)
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 !!"
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Hideout Mountain Lodge

2. Hideout Mountain Lodge

95%
(420)
Santa Ysabel, CA · 26 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hideout Mountain Lodge is a peaceful retreat tucked away in the hills of Santa Ysabel, just over an hour from San Diego and a couple of hours from Los Angeles. Spread across 40 acres, the property offers a variety of places to stay — from remodeled cabins with fireplaces and private decks, to vintage trailers, campsites, and RV spots with full hookups and views of Lake Henshaw. This is the kind of place where you slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the landscape. Guests gather around the community firepit, take walks through the oaks, or just relax on a porch and listen to the birds. On weekends, you can wander over to Josie’s Hideout Saloon, our on-site bar and restaurant, known for its live music and western character. We’re just a few minutes from the towns of Santa Ysabel and Julian, easy to get to but far enough away to feel like an escape.
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Electrical hookup
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Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

3. Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

98%
(381)
Joshua Tree, CA · 101 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, your go-to destination for a unique and memorable camping experience in Joshua Tree. This family-owned and operated park offers breathtaking views from its 2,300 ft elevation, showcasing the beauty of the Mojave Desert and the surrounding mountains. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast looking to explore the area or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Joshua Tree Lake RV and Campground has something for everyone. With panoramic views of the North face of Joshua Tree National Park, the ancient Copper Mountain Hills to the North and East, and exceptional desert vistas, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes wherever you look. Office Hours: 8:30 - 8 Sunday - Thursday 8:30 - 9 Friday and Saturday Check-in Begins at 12 PM. Checkout is at 11 AM. The campground is situated on the southern edge of the Mojave Desert and boasts some of the best stargazing opportunities in the region. With clear, unpolluted skies, you can enjoy the magnificent night skies and immerse yourself in the beauty of the stars. We want to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, so please take note of the following guidelines: Swimming is not permitted in the lake and there is no swimming pool available. Fishing is currently closed. Pet owners will be pleased to know that their furry friends are welcome, but there will be an additional fee added to the reservation. Wi-Fi is provided by a third-party company and a separate service fee applies. Please note that we cannot guarantee the speed, rate, or troubleshooting of the Wi-Fi service. For your convenience, a wash station for dishes is available on-site, and the Joshua Tree Laundromat is located 9 miles away in downtown Joshua Tree. For campfires, it is important to keep them contained inside the designated burn barrels and never leave them unattended. In the event of high winds, campfire, and BBQ use may be suspended for safety reasons. So, pack your gear and head to Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, your favorite place to stay while you play in Joshua Tree. Experience the magic of the Mojave Desert and all its natural wonders, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
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Toilets
Full hookups
San Bernardino National Forest

4. San Bernardino National Forest

94%
(154)
National forest in California · 863 sites
Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Angeles National Forest

5. Angeles National Forest

92%
(228)
National forest in California · 791 sites
Experience the beauty of nature without having to stray far from Los Angeles.
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Campfires
Big Bear Lake Tiny Home

6. Big Bear Lake Tiny Home

Big Bear Lake, CA · 1 site
Tiny home next to national forest in Big Bear lake. A 2 minute walk to world famous Skyline trail, a 15 minute walk to lake and marina and 30 minutes walking distance to Village.
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Showers
Potable water
Lakeshore Retreat

7. Lakeshore Retreat

95%
(187)
Lake Elsinore, CA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Enjoy a private lakefront camping area on Lake Elsinore. You will never get tired of the beautiful sunsets, night sky, or all the water-sports on the lake. Historic downtown is just minutes away where you will find restaurants, and stores all within walking distance. Perfect place for a basecamp for nearby hiking, biking, off-roading. Amenities include private dock, potable water, deluxe porta-potty, fire ring, 2 picnic tables(under a 10' x 10' canopy with water mister), and some shade trees🌴
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Villa Macala

8. Villa Macala

100%
(391)
Hemet, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Villa Macala is a 20-acre oasis of detailed landscape, orchards and Southern CA native planting while complimenting the natural rocks and gorgeous views. Enjoy the many hiking trails and rest in the peace, quiet and beauty. Overlooking the Hemet Valley with gorgeous panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains, Villa Macala is reminiscent of an Italian Villa. The property landscape includes Olive Orchards throughout, a growing vineyard, fig trees, pomegranate trees. Villa Macala is 15 minutes from Diamond Valley Lake where you can enjoy a wildflower trail, fishing or mountain bike trails, museum and water park. It is 20-30 minutes to Pachea Trail and Simpson Park where you can enjoy more great hiking and mountain bike trails. It is also a 30-minute drive to Temecula Wine Country. We have 2 full outdoor bathrooms, one was most recently added at our Elderberry Camp Site (site 1), and is also close to site 4 our Oaks Campsite as well. (Please note our 2nd bathroom is a good walk uphill from the campsites). Our larger bathroom campers can use with a shower and small fridge to store your food. We also have a playground with swing set for kids to enjoy. PLEASE NOTE: Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. FIRES: No fires are to be lit by the campers without verbal consent from property owner and instruction. SEE property owner/camp host upon arrival about what you may use on the property. He will provide instructions. TASTINGS: Macala Orchards Olive Oil, Various Jellies and Jams Pomegranate Juice all made from what we grow are available for tasting upon request. Please let us know prior to arrival if you are interested in a scheduled tasting during your stay! We can provide a tasting if we have the proper staff during your visit. Our products are available for purchase, with or without a tasting. We recommend you bring cash if you are interested. We also take Venmo! GETTING TO VILLA MACALA: The road up to Villa Macala is a dirt road uphill, all vehicles fair well, we attempt to keep the road maintained as well as possible, after heavy rains it is a bit more bumpy but safe. Drive slow!
Pets
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Full hookups
Stallion Oaks Ranch

9. Stallion Oaks Ranch

97%
(234)
Descanso, CA · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Find space and stillness on 240 acres of oak-studded backcountry in Descanso. Stallion Oaks Ranch is a peaceful sanctuary tucked away in the foothills, offering a grounded escape for campers, hikers, and groups. Whether you're seeking a moment of reflection at our Peace Pole, walking our labyrinth, exploring our winding trails, or using the Ranch as a basecamp for a rugged trek to the PCT, you’ll find a sacred environment designed for unplugging and renewal. ACCOMODATIONS FOR EVERY TRAVELER: RV Sites: We offer a selection of full-hookup sites (water, power, and sewer) and dry RV sites nestled among the oaks. Tent Camping: Plenty of spacious, traditional tent sites for those who want a true nature experience. Group Yurts: Our rustic, bunk-bed style yurts are perfect for youth groups, multi-family campouts, or retreats. Bathhouse: All guests have access to our bathhouse, featuring six flush toilets and six showers, providing comfort and convenience even in the heart of the backcountry. THE HEART OF THE RANCH: The Peace Pole & Labyrinth: Nestled in a quiet grove of oaks, our natural labyrinth is a place for moving meditation. At its center stands a custom-crafted Peace Pole featuring the prayer "May Peace Prevail on Earth" in over 30 languages—including the Kumeyaay language of the First Nations people who first occupied this land. Stone benches surround the pole for shaded reflection. The Barn: For large groups and special events, our historic "Barn" provides a 250-capacity meeting space with rustic charm and an enormous stone fireplace. Ideal for concerts, parties and other group gatherings. Banquet tables and chairs available. Hiking & Camping The PCT: Explore onsite trails or take the 2-mile primitive wilderness trail that connects the property to the Pacific Crest Trail (recommended for experienced hikers). The Seasonal Lake: Enjoy our natural basin that fills with winter rains—a serene spot for bird watching that changes with the seasons. GOOD TO KNOW: A Sacred Space: Owned by The Unity Center, we ask all guests to respect the quiet and peace of the land. Unplugged: Cell service is limited. Seasonal Nature: Our lake and wildflower displays depend entirely on local rainfall. Fire Safety: We follow strict CalFire guidelines regarding campfires.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Los Padres National Forest

10. Los Padres National Forest

95%
(454)
National forest in California · 762 sites
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
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Toilets
Campfires
Cleveland National Forest

11. Cleveland National Forest

93%
(85)
National forest in California · 436 sites
Hike, camp, or gaze up at the Milky Way in California’s southernmost national forest.
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Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

12. Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

89%
(47)
State park in California · 233 sites
Summit peaks, visit waterfalls, and beat the SoCal heat at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.
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Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

13. Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

93%
(15)
State park in California · 142 sites
Beat the SoCal heat with a camping trip at this popular lakeside spot.
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Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

14. Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

97%
(312)
Topanga, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
DEAR HIPCAMPER, "Welcome" To Cross Bull Ranch/CBR Where You Can Unplug & "Disconnect" from Technology & Devices because...WE HAVE A GREAT Connection With Nature HERE ON THE RANCH In 1926 "A Farmer" Named McDougal Came to CA from Santa Fe, NM in Search of A Better Life for He & His Family. Originally 40 Acres The Farm Provided ALL Produce, Dairy, Poultry & Beef to The Topanga Community via The "General Store" Until The End of WW2 IN 1945 when The American Public were Sold Post Military Chemicals as pesticides & fertilizers. It was Then That "Corporations" began Buying Up Fertile FarmLand, Clear Cutting, Mono-Cropping. Creating Corporate "Grocery Store" Chains DESTROYING "The Family Farm." My Son's Father & I Rescued This Land in 1998. It was Derelict. We were Handed A 1' HIGH FILE FULL OF Building Department "Violations" The Oaks were ALL Dying from Lack Of Fresh Air/Oxygen & Sunshine. We Removed (8) 5 TON DUMPSTERS/40 TONS OF GARBAGE INCLUDING: Cars, Car Parts/Tires, Toilets, Jacuzzi Tubs, Dishware, Newspapers, Utensils++. We Picked Up EVERY Chard of Glass from Broken Beer Bottles, EVERY Bottle Cap, EVERY Cigarette Butt. Which ARE NOT BIODEGRADABLE. It was A "Travesty." And... "A Labor Of Love." We IMMEDIATELY "Invested" $5000.00 Clearing & Cleaning, "Healing" The Oaks. With Ropes NOT Spikes. We Bought A Brush Cutter & Cut Down Weeds TALLER THAN ME. At 1st you Couldn't EVEN See The Topography Of The Land. We Renovated an Existing Trailer Adjacent to The Farm House. The "Treehouse Trailer" as We Affectionately Call It Was Ou Home for 7 Years While I Resolved A 1' High File Of Building Violations, Woke at 5:30AM EVERY MORNING To Direct/General Contract A Crew Of Talented Artisans from San Miguel Allende, Mexico NONE Of Which Spoke English (Soy Boriqua) & Who'd NEVER Built or Renovated A House Before. In 2009 after Separation, Divorce & Financial Devastation in '09/'10I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This "Dis-Ease" Ended Up Being "A Gift". It Lead me On "The Red Road" To Getting Baptized in The Native American Church in The Lakota Way, Taking "Refuge" in Tibetan Buddhism, Hosting Shaman & Healers from ALL OVER The World in Plant Medicine Ceremonies, Practicing Permaculture & Preparedness, Creating My Own Line Of "Cross Bull Ranch" Non-GMO Organic Food,Becoming A Certified Somatic Healing (Trauma Release) Practitioner &Ordained Minister.Until November of 2019 I had been Hosting Retreats, Workshops, Weddings++ In "Our Home." Until... covid. Similar to "My Prayer" 10 Yeas Ago Asking "God" To Send Healers Who Needed Land to Support Their Work In Exchange/Barter For me To Receive The Healing I Needed. Again "I Prayed" HARD & Divine InspirationCame To me Similar to "Food Being Medicine," that Pachamama, "Mother Earth" is The MOST Potent Healer. I Decided to "Open Up The Land" To Offer To "Others" to Leave Society & Devices Behind. Ground Themselves. FULLY IMMERSING Themselves, Family & Friends in Nature "Maskless." In Order To Breathe Fresh Air. Filling Their Lungs With Life Sustaining Oxygen & Bathe Themselves in Sunshine which Is A PowerFULL Disinfectant, Recharge "Their Souls" & Stimulating Their Third Eye/"Pineal Gland."Helping Others To Re-Boot & BOOST Their Immune Systems.Which is Of The UTMOST IMPORTANCE "Right Now." I Am Lisa Cianci and... I AM Looking Forward To Seeing YOU Here On The Ranch! Until Then... Take CareStay Safe & Well!
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Rancho de Granville

15. Rancho de Granville

92%
(99)
Oak View, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Midway between the ocean and Ojai, the ranch is 7 acres with plenty of trees, shade and grass. A sandy yard, a tent spot with privacy near San Antonio Creek ! Challenge a friend to game of horseshoes or darts. Your neighbors are the chickens, horses and frogs! We DO have an out house, water at each site, and tables at each site. This ranch was the original stage coach stop between Ventura and the small community of Ojai . The old bunkhouse and barn remain!! Please plan to arrive before 8pm.
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Water hookup
SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

16. SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

95%
(204)
Running Springs, CA · 8 sites
Escape to the San Bernardino mountains and experience the ultimate mountain retreat! Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin for a romantic getaway, or a spacious lodge for a family vacation, we've got you covered. With a dozen stunning cabins to choose from, we offer the perfect accommodation for all seasons and activities. Embrace the winter wonderland with skiing and snowboarding, or explore the great outdoors with hiking, rock climbing, and fishing. Or simply unwind and relax in the serene mountain surroundings. Our cabins are conveniently located in Green Valley Lake, Big Bear, Running Springs, and Lake Arrowhead, each offering its own unique charm and adventure. Let us be your host and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay with us today and discover the magic of the San Bernardino mountains!
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Hidden Lake

17. Hidden Lake

100%
(36)
Jamul, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover the perfect escape at this peaceful lakeside camping spot nestled under the shade of majestic oak trees. Located right beside a lake stocked with fish, this serene property offers a quiet retreat for nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, cast a line, or explore the surrounding wilderness, this beautiful location provides an ideal setting for a memorable outdoor experience. Bring your RV or pitch a tent, and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of lakeside camping. Plus, enjoy kayaking, swimming, and more as you soak in everything this lakeside haven has to offer. Book your spot today!
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Picnic table
The Cabins at Joshua Tree Lake RV

18. The Cabins at Joshua Tree Lake RV

95%
(49)
Joshua Tree, CA · 6 sites
Joshua Tree Lake RV partnered with Hostel Cubed to create a mini glamping destination in our beautiful Siesta Circle! Using modular structures with minimal impact on Mother Earth, Hostel Cubed creates experiences in nature that combine the social culture of a hostel with innovative design in a community-driven atmosphere. After a stellar day exploring Joshua Tree, cool off in your Air Conditioned cabin, play with the ducks lakeside, roast some s'mores, or gaze at the Milky Way as you recharge for another memorable day in Joshua Tree. Our family-owned and operated outdoor experience offers charismatic desert scapes & vistas from our 2,300 ft elevation, giving you outstanding sightlines to Mt San Jacinto, Mt San Gorgonio and the North face of Joshua Tree National Park. Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground is located at the southern edge of the Mojave Desert - offering exceptional desert vistas and spectacular night skies.
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Camp Durrwood

19. Camp Durrwood

100%
(32)
Big Bear City, CA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Camp Durrwood is a 29-acre pristine wilderness nestled in the San Bernardino National Forest, offering an unforgettable outdoor experience. Your group will have exclusive access to all of our amenities, including a comfortable RV for lounging, picnic tables, hammocks, horseshoes, corn hole, and numerous hiking trails starting from the campground. Our property includes a porta potty, but no showers. Camp Durrwood has over 10 possible dispersed campsites for tents and ample room for overlanders, RVs, and campervans. We are conveniently located just 2 miles from the Santa Ana River, 5 miles from Jenks Lake, and only a 25-minute drive to Big Bear, making Durrwood the perfect private retreat for your group. Durrwood is the ideal destination for families, company retreats, club meetups, church groups, girls and boy scouts, and any other groups looking to reconnect with nature. Our beautiful surroundings and wide range of activities make us the perfect choice for your next group gathering. Please note there is no water on the property so make sure to bring your own. Commercial Use & Filming Policy: The nightly rental rate covers personal recreational use only. Any commercial activity—including but not limited to filming, photography sessions, content creation, advertising, or events intended for profit—requires prior written approval and is subject to additional fees. Unauthorized commercial use is strictly prohibited.
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Gracewood Santa Barbara

20. Gracewood Santa Barbara

88%
(191)
Goleta, CA · 1 site · Tent, RV
This is an historic ranch with buildings dating from the 1880's to the mid 1930's and then some newer and spacious structures. See management for tours, history and accessibility to some structures and areas. This is a working ranch with a fascinating heritage going back three owners to an impressive land grant. There are 6 miles of trails and roads on the ranch shared by vehicles, hikers and equestrians. A map can be provided which will insure that neighboring properties are not trespassed on. All visitors to the ranch must have checked in with the office and management. There is an extra charge of $40.00 per person per day coming onto the ranch whether they are spending the night or just visiting. This charge is beyond and in addition to the charge made for the first four individuals on the reservation for each day. We find that many of our regular clients on the ranch are very friendly and helpful. Only 1 site is exclusively available right now Come stay at our rustic campsite under some large oak trees next to a little open area by an ecological pond on our working ranch! With 54 acres for our horses and avocados, we welcome guests to camp on a somewhat private part of the ranch (on occasion, equestrians may ride by). We can accommodate up to 8 more campers depending on the group type. We love welcoming families to the ranch, but like to approve larger groups ahead of time! At the campsite you'll find picnic tables, a fire pit for small fires, and running water. Minimal 110 Volt electrical outlet is at the campsite. There is a fully functional unique bathroom made out of a converted horse trailer with a toilet and sink a few hundred yards from the site. Walking around the property, you'll see an activity barn and a historic 19th century cottage which houses a private library. Permission may be granted for entry to these structures if requested. There is an outdoor shower at the campsite with cold water only. Some firewood may be provided at no cost. Campers, making reservations during cold winter months when the otherwise beautiful weather becomes cooler, should be aware that because of the proximity of a wind machine which makes a noise like a helicopter about 300 yards away from the campsite, on a neighboring property, may interrupt an otherwise peaceful and quiet experience. The wind machine comes on automatically when the temperature drops to around 37 degrees so that avocados in the orchard do not suffer from a freezing temperature. Please note the trigger temperature for the machines is taken at individual low points on the adjacent property and may reflect as many as 6 degrees lower than what is found on forecast sites. This machine probably might turn on maybe 7 nights in a year and only during the cold winter months. Headlamps are a great idea, otherwise, flashlights for sure. Minimal 110 V. electricity at campsite. The library and restroom are a little ways away from the campsite have lighting but it is very dark between the campsite and those facilities. We are located only two miles to the ocean beaches and about a mile to a major shopping center. UCSB is just minutes away. Bicycling is very easy as all roads and access are flat. Please return all furniture to the place(s) from which it was moved and thank you for putting out your fire(s) and carrying out your trash to the dumpster when leaving the campsite.
Electrical hookup
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field