Top-rated campgrounds near Valley Springs
Private Reservoir
1. Private Reservoir
93%
(51)
0.6mi from Valley Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV
Private property on a private reservoir. Enjoy some quiet time on the water, swimming, fishing, camping or just sitting and enjoying this hidden gem. Conveniently located a couple minutes from town to get some groceries or even fast food and gas. Also minutes from the large lake of New Hogan if your brining a jet ski or boat. Come relax on this 10 acres of private water access.
Fish till your heart is content. Please catch and release. We have a variety of fish: Bass, Blue Gill, Cat fish and even some big Carp. Use our canoe or paddle boat or bring your own kayak, SUP, canoe etc.
Newly added large floating dock, sand beach and large swing set/ hammock polls. Come play and have fun and listen to the sounds of frogs at night and the birds in the morning.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Angels Hideaway
2. Angels Hideaway
100%
(10)
7.8mi from Valley Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hilltop Yurt and RV Parking
Enjoy a large deck with an outdoor shower and scenic views. The front half of the property features sloping hills, open space, and a seasonal pond, while the backside is wooded with a path leading down to the creek bed at the base of the hill.
Make a campfire, BBQ, pan for gold, and soak up the fresh air. A swing for kids hangs from an oak near the yurt, and other trees onsite are perfect for a hammock.
The bathroom is an outhouse. An outdoor shower comrs with a gas-powered on-demand water heater. There’s ample space to pitch tents or dry camp in an RV.
Amenities include: indoor and outdoor tables and seating, umbrella, hammock, outdoor sink, bbq, camp stove, pack n play, 2 beds, sheets, pillows, blankets, basic kitchen tools and amenities.
Please note: The driveway is a bit steep, so 4-wheel drive is preferred.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp Electra in Mokelumne Hill
3. Camp Electra in Mokelumne Hill
93%
(29)
9.7mi from Valley Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Meander through Historic Mokelumne Hill also known as Moke Hill to locals.
Listen to music and have a drink on weekends at the Renegade Winery.
Explore the Mokelumne river up Electra road. Plenty to see and experience all within walking distance. Mokelumne Hill is a quant town with lots of charm in the heart of the Gold Country.
Bring your own tent or your small RV and campout at our rig site or "glamp" in our vintage VW "Choncho".
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
New Hogan Lake
4. New Hogan Lake
71%
(7)
Park 0.4mi from Valley Springs · 205 sites
Discover the serene beauty of New Hogan Lake and its outdoor delights.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park
5. Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park
State park 19mi from Valley Springs · 1 site
Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park (IGR) is located in the Sierra Nevada foothills 12 miles east of Jackson, CA. The park nestles in a little valley 2,400 feet above sea level with open meadows and large valley oaks that once provided the Native Americans of this area with an ample supply of acorns. The park was created in 1968 and preserves a great outcropping of marbleized limestone with some 1,185 mortar holes -- the largest collection of bedrock mortars in North America.
Rocksteady Adventures
6. Rocksteady Adventures
93%
(195)
11mi from Valley Springs · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Off-grid campground adjacent to 1000 acre private reservoir perfect for fishing, kayaking & paddle boarding. 70 acres in Sierra Nevada Foothills with Valley Oaks, Gray Pines & Manzanita. Best birding in Calaveras County with over 188 species including Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles, Osprey & waterfowl.
Reservoir is a no-wake waterbody created for irrigation of the surrounding private rangeland. Jet Skiing and WaterSkiing is not allowed. Boats of all sizes are welcome for the purposes of fishing. Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding and canoeing with all of those available for rent on site.
Please note we host events throughout the year. Upcoming we have:
June 22-23 - APBA Boat Racing - no boats or swimming on water
July 4-6th - Rocksteady Campout for Celebrate Americana so expect full campground with a laser show on the 4th and live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Sept 20-21 - Rocksteady Campout with Goonies & Pirates so expect full campground with live music on Friday and Saturday night
Oct 4-5 - Rocksteady Campout TBD so expect full campground with live music on Friday and Saturday night.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Prospect 772 Winery & Event Center
7. Prospect 772 Winery & Event Center
97%
(37)
14mi from Valley Springs · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled in the picturesque Sierra foothills, this stunning 25-acre property features 5 acres of flourishing vineyards. Enjoy ample space for tent or RV camping, along with two charming glamping cabins equipped with air conditioning and heating. The site also includes three restrooms, one of which is ADA accessible, ensuring comfort and convenience for all guests.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Unplug for nature, dogs, and kids
8. Unplug for nature, dogs, and kids
98%
(29)
16mi from Valley Springs · 1 site
Escape to peaceful, kids and dog-friendly Sierra Foothills cabin surrounded by 5 private acres on border of Mountain Ranch and Mokelumne Hill, just a short drive to lakes, rivers, trails, and charming towns Murphys and Jackson.
This cozy retreat is perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers looking to unplug, unwind, and reconnect. Spend your days by the fire, playing board games, or relaxing while your dog explores freely.
Cell service is available (T-Mobile and AT&T work well), but there is no Wi-Fi, making this a true digital-detox getaway.
Winter note: The closest snow play is at Bear Valley, located past Arnold, CA.
Inside the rustic cabin, you’ll find:
Queen bed plus queen air mattress (bedding provided)
Dog bed-all dogs welcome, but please keep off the main bed, we've lost two duvet covers to long white dog hair
Electric heater and wood-burning stove
Wrap-around dining table
kitchenette with stove, microwave, mini-fridge, and seasonal A/C
TV with 1,000+ DVDs and an outdoor projector for movies under the stars
Books, puzzles, and board games
The cabin comfortably sleeps 2 adults and 2 smaller children indoors. Guests may also camp outside for up to 6 guests in total. Additional guests nonnegotiable.
Optional Add-Ons: notice required for setup
Creekside Glamping Tent (separate private area): full-size air mattress and single cot. Extra $25/night.
Cozy Quarters Van (separate private area): queen bed, large deck, and seating area. Extra $45/night.
Amenities & Comforts
Two outhouses with hand-washing sink
Outdoor hot shower (guest favorite)
Weber, Traeger, or gas grill and flat top
Mr. Coffee maker with filters and sugar
Firepit and multiple shaded seating areas
Outdoor Features
Treehouse platform for coffee or stargazing
80-foot zipline swing
Swings, hammocks, and outdoor games
Nearby
Stop at Sender’s Market in Mountain Ranch for local wine, ribeye steaks, deli sandwiches, groceries, and hardware. Nearby towns offer bars, wineries, cider houses, sports bars, farmers’ markets, and summer events.
Favorite day trips New Hogan Lake (great for kids and dogs) and the Mokelumne River near Electra Rd (scenic but fast-moving; use caution).
We visit often for maintenance and are happy to share our personal space. Please treat it as your own.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
The Painted Lake
9. The Painted Lake
97%
(159)
18mi from Valley Springs · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
AWD recommended and is required in wet rainy season. Kayaks and ample eggs provided when the chickens are laying . Heat and a/c in cabins make it cozy. Explore BLM and Reclamation land along the shores of New Melones reservoir near Angels Camp. Horses, goats, sheep , and chickens await you on every fence line you come to. Kayak on the waters below as you camp on our fully vineyard-fenced 20 acre private acreage. Our land is surrounded by 100’s of acres of lake front - public Federal lands surrounded by our private acreage and great neighbors you’ll never see. Portable rented toilets on site at parking areas. Propane available on site. Gas fire pits available at request .
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Columbia State Historic Park
10. Columbia State Historic Park
State park 24mi from Valley Springs · 3 sites
One of the best-preserved California Gold Rush towns, Columbia State Historic Park is a popular destination for school living-history programs, special family gatherings, or a year-round getaway. Columbia offers a unique blend of museums, exhibits, town tours, live theater plays, restaurants and attractions.
Visit the shops, catch a stagecoach, or take a ghost tour of Columbia. There are 25 wineries within a twenty minute drive, giant sequoias at Calaveras Big Trees State Park within a thirty-five minute drive, the exciting days of steam-train travel at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park within a ten minute drive, and Yosemite National Park is just over the hill. The area is also a prime spot for antiquing, gold panning, cave exploring and white-water rafting.
The Columbia City Hotel and its sister, the Fallon Hotel, are authentically restored 19th-century country inns. All rooms are elegantly appointed with Victorian antiques, custom crafted wall coverings, and beautiful lithographs. Take a peak at the front desk.
Each hotel has a sitting parlour where you can peruse books and magazines, or participate in one of many board games.
While both hotels stay as faithful to 19th century decor as possible, modern conveniences such as indoor plumbing, heating. and air conditioning have been added. Each room has a half bath and a shower basket is provided for the trip down the hall to the shared shower rooms.
There are also three charming cottages—a one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom—each with a full kitchen, fenced yard and DVD player.
Stanislaus River Parks
11. Stanislaus River Parks
83%
(3)
Park 26mi from Valley Springs · 30 sites
Extreme river rafting awaits you here! Or take it easy with fishing and exploring.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Calaveras Big Trees State Park
12. Calaveras Big Trees State Park
99%
(41)
State park 29mi from Valley Springs · 178 sites
Get ready to be amazed, because "Big Trees" is an understatement.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Stanislaus National Forest
13. Stanislaus National Forest
93%
(173)
National forest 40mi from Valley Springs · 1529 sites
An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Walden Ranch
14. Walden Ranch
99%
(957)
19mi from Valley Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Walden Ranch began with the purchase of a neighboring 20 acres. Couple that with the inspiration of Thoreau's lines and life at the real Walden Pond, the ranch has grown to nearly 300 acres and the small ranch pond has grown to a 5-acre lake with a 3-acre forest and home. Scouts, family and church groups use the site for gatherings. Available are canoes, bonfire, and exploring the ranch's 300-head cattle, llamas, poultry and wildlife.
Fires always allowed at fire ring. You are welcome to bring your own wood.
Pitch your tent in a forest setting alongside a lake on a working cattle ranch. Watch wildlife or hike to smaller lakes on the ranch. Other animals include dogs, llamas, geese, chickens, and horses.
The ranch is within a 20 minute drive to either Stockton or Lodi, CA and is surrounded by vineyards, orchards and pastures.
Outdoor flush toilets, sink, tables and fire ring available. Forested area is set amidst grazing lands.
This "Walden" even has willow trees slipped from a tree near Thoreau's cabin
near Walden Pond, MA.
Owner looks forward to sharing this peaceful, special spot!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mighty Farm & Camp
15. Mighty Farm & Camp
95%
(58)
19mi from Valley Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We have 155 acres of the Sierra foothills just ~12 minutes from downtown Murphys. This is a working farm where we specialize in cut flowers and also grow a little food. When available we offer bouquets/eggs/veggies as an add-on.
There are a few different listings, so make sure to read the details on your specific listing!
-End of The Driveway
-1 Pine
-2 Pine
The End of The Driveway is one big site for buses/RVs/big vans next to the Soup Kitchen. 1 Pine and 2 Pine are up a separate driveway on the ridge.
The driveway spot is down the driveway a couple hundred yards from where we usually are so you’ll more or less be on your own, depending on if we have work to do down there or if there are other campers. We are happy to chat or leave you be, just let us know what your needs are. If you’re looking for a more isolated spot, see the listings for 1 Pine or 2 Pine.
The 2nd area is “1 Pine” accessed by our second driveway that is 100 yards down the road from the farm. The driveway is kind of rough but definitely manageable with a truck, SUV or sedan if you’re willing to go for it. The drive goes up a couple hundred yards to the hilltop where there is a clearing and, you guessed it, 1 pine tree. From the back of the clearing there is a trail that leads you to 2 Pine, which is a walk that takes just a few minutes. 2 Pine is walk-in only but has great views of the sunset and is totally secluded and private and would be a good spot to either bring some friends for a little sunset party or for someone who wants to seriously unplug. There are plenty of flat spots to pitch a tent.
**if you are a teacher or Pacific Crest Trail hiker let us know! We are happy to offer a discount :)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pine Ridge Campground with lodge
16. Pine Ridge Campground with lodge
96%
(13)
20mi from Valley Springs · 1 site
Nestled in California's Gold Country, Pine Ridge Ranch is the perfect destination for private group retreats, family reunions, lodge getaways, or group camping experiences.
We provide a cozy 3-bedroom guest lodge and you can also bring your own RV or tent for camping under the stars. We have a limit of 40 RVs per group and 70 guests maximum.
It is $35 for wifi, PLEASE add this as an extra at checkout if you would like wifi during your stay.
We charge a pet fee and it is $50 per pet per night, 5 dogs maximum. PLEASE add this as an extra at checkout. For example, if you are bringing 5 pets for 5 nights, please select 25 as the quantity.
Embrace the exclusivity of our private 25-acre resort, featuring scenic trails for hiking and exploration, a refreshing swimming pool accompanied by an outdoor bar and kitchen, and a charming private saloon equipped with a pool table.
At Pine Ridge Ranch, your group will be the sole guests, ensuring a truly intimate and personalized retreat experience.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Strange Ranch - River and Gold
17. Strange Ranch - River and Gold
100%
(123)
20mi from Valley Springs · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Secluded private river and forest camping on the South Fork Mokelumne River. The site has incredible views with a pristine private gold-bearing trout stream with mining history and wildlife preserve located in the gold country of the Sierra Nevada foothills of northern Calaveras County. This unique property is adjacent to over 900 acres of public land and 2 miles of private stream for exploring. With a total of only 6 campsites, it is a great location for a group to reserve the entire campground. All campsites have potable well water spigots and access to a cool water shower, sites 4-6 have electricity. Guests enjoy the privacy while swimming, stream exploring, hiking, spelunking, forest immersion, fishing for wild trout, gold panning, or simply relaxing in a breathtaking environment – come fall in love with this special private ranch. After one stay, you will be a repeat guest.
PLEASE NOTE: An All-Wheel Drive or 4-Wheel Drive vehicle is MANDATORY to access campsites 1 - 3, 5 & 6 due to the road incline and rock and gravel road surface. PLEASE PREPARE ACCORDINGLY! Campsite 4 is accessible with a 2-wd vehicle, and has potable well water and 20 amps of power. Sites have beautiful open views of the property and river canyon with natural shade in the morning and late afternoon. Sounds of the river will lull you to sleep. Although partially shaded, please plan to provide your own portable shade structure(s) during late morning and afternoon as the direct sun can be an inconvenience.
The Stranges are professional fish and wildlife biologists and have decided to share this special place for others to enjoy. The property hosts a diversity of plant and wildlife species that might be observed during your stay. Prehistoric and historic resources can be observed along the river corridor. Please be aware that some wildlife species including rattlesnakes, bears, and mountain lions have been observed on the 117-acre property and could potentially be observed near the campsites.
The Ranch's northern portion of the property supports a leased farming operation. Farming operations should not interfere with camping activities.
Day trips are possible to Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, Calaveras Big Trees State Park, local caverns and wine tasting, and historic gold towns.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Palala Ranch
18. Palala Ranch
99%
(37)
21mi from Valley Springs · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Palala Ranch is 20 acres of forested and inclined terrain. Located midway between the Bay Area and Lake Tahoe, it's a great stop off point on your way to the snow and the mountains. Being in the middle of gold country, there's several small historic gold mining towns that are really fun to visit. The Shenandoah Valley wine country is only 25 minutes away. This property is the beginning of a dream that we want all of our guests to be apart of. Using feedback and suggestions mingled with our vision, we want guests to contribute to the growth of this dream. Everytime guests return there will be new features and improvements for them to enjoy and to provide the best experience we can work the current resources. We look forward to hosting you and can't wait to meet you!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Scottie's Motofarm
19. Scottie's Motofarm
98%
(20)
21mi from Valley Springs · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Aimed at providing a comfortable, convenient and safe facility for tourists to spend the night and refresh, Scottie's Motofarm boasts multiple lush green lawns for tent camping, many shade trees, clean and civilized indoor toilet facilities with a locking door, free wifi, a private walk-in shower/changing room large enough for two people with a locking door, outlets for phone charging, laundry washing machine (no dryer) and kitchen food prep area with fridge. Propane and briquette BBQ, fire pit, city water safe for drinking, plenty of parking. We are conveniently located on Route 4 so campers should expect some noise, however the road quiets down around at night and -- except for the occasional loud vehicle -- it gets pretty serene here during the star gazing hours! The tent camping area is fenced and we have not had any bears on the property, but we do have a few shy farm cats and the occasional racoon. For this reason, we ask all campers to be mindful about storing food and disposing of trash in the provided bins. The ranch is comprised of the camping lawns, camping facilities, several homes on the property (two Air BnB and the owner's home) and the motorcycle workshop. Car and RV campers are welcomed and there is plenty of car/RV parking on the asphalt lot outside the fence at the East Side of the property near the mailboxes at the intersection of Rte 4 and Brice Station Road.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cosumnes River Ranch
20. Cosumnes River Ranch
99%
(1922)
22mi from Valley Springs · 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
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
B
Brook
1 week ago
Tent
Group trip
The dogs are adorable, eggs delicious, lake clear and gorgeous. Host was very kind in assisting us in and out of the site, making sure we were safe, and that we knew where everything was. Site had much more than expected and listed. Kayaking was very fun and the lake only had a few other boats that we saw the entire time. Would visit again!
See more
P
Padma
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake
We had THE MOST amazing stay at The Painted lake cabin. Like every single review here, this place is so inviting and is full of warmth. The animals, the lake and the hosts themselves make the overall experience so worth it. Bathrooms were clean and the hot showers were functional.
We are a big fan of Painted Lake and will 100% recommend it. We will definitely go again :)
See more
S
Susan
2 weeks ago
7 nights at Gold Wall Ranch & Vineyard
We spent a week at Gold wall Ranch.It was the perfect location for access to the Gold wall for climbing. It was a quick walk from the top to climbing area.Teddy Bear cabin was a nice retreat to come home to. Very quiet with lots of wildlife.We enjoyed our stay.Thanks for having us.
Susan and David
See more
Richard
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Angels Hideaway
A lovely secluded spot near Angels Camp. We had a great time just enjoying the peace and quiet while sitting around the campfire. If you really need some tranquility in your life I highly recommend spending a night or 2 here.
See more
S
Scout
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
I loved camping at spot 16! Good view of the river, great spot on top of the hill with port o potty close by! Would definitely come back here again! 5 stars!
See more
B
Brian
2 weeks ago
Tent
Great location and a fantastic site.
Showers were particularly impressive.
See more
A
Angela
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
My daughter, my dog, and I camped at site 4 for the weekend and we absolutely loved it! Tom, the owner, was friendly and informative. The flora and fauna were abundant — so many butterflies and wildflowers! The views were amazing, and unlike most camps I’ve been to, uncluttered with people and human noise. We really felt connected with nature. We both highly recommend it!
See more
M
M
2 weeks ago
Tent
Incredible site. Close to the river, fire pit, ample space. Bring some shade to block the sun. Bathrooms close by. The hosts were so lovely and accommodating. Had an amazing time!!
See more
C
Christopher
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Cosumnes Ranch is hands down the coolest place I’ve ever camped. It’s pristine, quiet, and the campsites are spaced a good distance from each other. Hard to find places like this to camp with dogs and we are very grateful the owner’s allow it. You are completely disconnected from the modern world as there are only a few places where you can get cellphone service which is a major bonus for those trying to disconnect from it all. The porta potties are a 1 to 2 minute walk away and they are completely spotless and clean. Can’t wait to return in the summer when the water is calmer and warmer. Thank you so much!
See more
J
James
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Unplug for nature, dogs, and kids
Steven and Michelle thank you for giving us the opportunity to enjoy your beautiful cabin. We read all your previous comments and agree with everyone. The attention to every detail did not go unnoticed. The property is very beautiful and the cabin was outstanding. Our dog loved roaming off leash all weekend. We cooked all our meals outdoors with all the amenities provided. Nights by the fire were amazing with all the stars. We are already planning a larger group with your additional opportunities.
See more
K
Katelynn
2 weeks ago
Tent
This was the most beautiful, fun, and relaxing experience we’ve had camping so far. The views were amazingly beautiful of the river and mountains, my boyfriend and I were in awe the whole time. Terry was such an amazing host he was very knowledgeable and kind and he made sure we were good and tended to us very well. We will be back over the summer and we can’t wait!
See more
J
Jean
2 weeks ago
30 ft Class C
With pets
This is our second time here, and we absolutely love it. The privacy and that you get the whole campground to yourself. She provides so much. By far, our favorite place to get away! Definitely will be coming back again!
See more
E
Eric
2 weeks ago
Tent
Wonderful experience. Everything including the drive to the property itself was gorgeous. The site was well-maintained and comfortable, right next to the rushing river. Folks who enjoy sleeping with white noise are in for a real treat. We were completely unbothered by other campers, exactly what I was hoping for in a more private camping experience. The only other people my group saw were the one other group of campers leaving and the very kind property manager who had a friendly, brief check-in with us to introduce himself, answer any questions we had, and tell us a bit of interesting facts about the property. The trek to the site follows several connecting dirt roads, not a picnic to drive on but not difficult by any means either. Managed it in a small SUV and sedan with absolutely no issues. No cell service, however there are designated areas marked on the property with signs that you can get service at if needed. Bathrooms were within line of sight of the campsite, close enough to be convenient but far enough to be unobtrusive, and very clean. Be mindful of ticks and check your socks if you go exploring through the grass! Overall a lovely time and exactly the retreat away from overpopulated campgrounds I was hoping for.
See more
Erin
3 weeks ago
With pets
I took my dog here for a night away as she doesn’t have much time left, and we spent the entire time sitting in front of the fireplace. I read to her. We listened to the rain, cuddled, and just really tried to be present though the hard stuff. The yurt had everything you need to enjoy a stay there. Comfy bed and while it did get cold, keeping the fire going for my dog was great while enjoying it from the comfy couch. The neighbor dogs did bark a lot from 9pm-1am. Other than that, we heard owls, and other birds and it was quiet. The outhouse was clean and the shower would have been nice, but with it raining so hard I didn’t try it. Very easy directions. Super beautiful area. Would love to return with friends when warmer to enjoy it in a different way. Very glad my dog and I got to experience the adventure together in a cozy spot.
See more
rina
3 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful grounds overlooking cliffs and mountains towards Yosemite ⛰️
Michelle was super accommodating during the thunderstorms. 🚐
Had a spectacular lightning show on the balcony 🙌🏾
The massages were great as well! Thanks again and hopefully we’ll be back uo there for October 🎃 😁🌲🌲
See more
T
Tran
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We stayed at this campsite recently and overall had a good experience.
The spot itself is beautiful, with a really nice view and a peaceful setting. It’s definitely the kind of place you go to unwind and enjoy nature. That said, getting there was a bit of a challenge. The road is rough and, in our opinion, best suited for a 4WD vehicle, so that’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning a visit.
We were able to enjoy the site for about three hours before a thunderstorm rolled in. The weather turned pretty intense, so we ended up staying in our car for the entire night until morning. Not exactly what we had planned, but sometimes that’s part of the adventure.
One of the highlights, though, was the host. They were very communicative and responsive via text (iPhone satellite messaging). When we reached out asking whether we should stay put in the car, they reassured us to do whatever we felt most comfortable with. They even offered to drive up to our site and guide us safely back down, which we really appreciated. That level of care made a big difference.
All in all, it’s a lovely spot with a wonderful host. We just wish the weather had been more favorable so we could have enjoyed it more.
See more
Kara
3 weeks ago
With pets
The remote, rustic feel of the grounds combined with the luxury of a handcrafted bungalow was truly unique. The panorama of the lake through mature oak trees was magical. The kayaks and privacy of the lake made this a one of a kind opportunity. We highly recommend this experience to all who enjoy the unkempt wild of nature, glamping at it's finest, and are comfortable with moderate physical activity. We especially enjoyed the outdoor shower feature.
See more
J
Jocelyn
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
amazing property! well kept, great views, cute animals, lots of privacy and space! would definitely visit again and already planning on it.
See more
Jennifer
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
[NOTE: This review is for site #3]
Our family of 3 had a memorable stay at Strange Ranch. Terry provided great detail about what to expect leading up to our trip, including current weather forecast and better navigational tips than Google maps.
The first plus was how accommodating Terry was, especially when we showed up 6 hrs later than original ETA. He opened up the gates for us around 11PM and escorted us to our site.
Site 3 was more space than we needed and came equipped with a brand new permanent shade structure w/ picnic table, custom firepit, and potable water source. We were able to fit our 6 person tent, 10x10 EZ Up, and slightly larger enclosed shade tent area with plenty of room to spare.
The communal restroom was probably a few minutes downhill walk (right between sites 1 & 2), but we never walked it as we had our own portable toilet. We did drive down a few times (maybe less than a minute drive) to access the communal wash basin, trash/recycle bins, and access to the river.
Highly recommend visiting the river and signing up for the aquatic wildlife tour, esp if you're into bugs. Our 2 y/o son had a BLAST playing in and around the river. The temp of the water is pretty chilly this time of year, so we didn't get to get in further than our knees, but it was still a ton of fun. Bonus was getting to play fetch with Terry's dog, Whiskey, who had no problem swimming for the hours we were there.
We'll be back! (with a bigger group)
Thanks, Terry! :)
See more
J
Jacopo
3 weeks ago
22 ft campervan
Delightful private camping spot with a caring host. Nice setup, including hookups for water and electricity. Picnic table and games ready for you at the site. Easy walk to historic Columbia and local food options.
See more
