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97% (6.4K) • 4,514 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Spencer
Rune Hill Sanctuary
1. Rune Hill Sanctuary
97%
(52)
2.7mi from Spencer · 1 site
This property has been inhabited since the 19th century. Through multiple owners in multiple ventures it has remained primarily in its natural state. This property has 182 Acres of rolling hills, meadows, forest, creeks and waterfalls, and much more created by glacial activity long long ago. We humans have added some infrastructure. The property has an outdoor kitchen and Pavilion, outdoor shower, outdoor compost toilets, a wood-burning sauna, and a few other structures. Come enjoy this magical place and see what it is that we love so much about it.Learn more about this land:Rune Hill Sanctuary is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the stresses of normal life, or whatever motivates you to get out and camp. At Rune Hill Sanctuary, camping is easy. We have a 182 acres of protected land with many great spots to pitch a tent. Along with your tent stay we provide a comunal fire pit, picnic table, & a wood burning sauna. You would be expected to "bring in & bring out" all other nessesities you would need to enjoy your stay. Over 3 miles of mowed trails, and much more. This property is just magical! You just have to see it to know what I mean.
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What Ever Floats Your Boat
2. What Ever Floats Your Boat
99%
(37)
4.4mi from Spencer · 1 site
Rustic Cabin sleeps 5-6, one large futon and 4 bunks; you need your own sleeping bags, Plus plenty of space for tents & hammocks. 6 Acres nestled up to miles of NY State Forest w/ waterfall Plus use of the houseboat’s dock and fire pit. And if you like fossils, there are plenty in the stream. Miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding and some Mountain biking.
Camp is just a 1.5 mile hike to the famous Myers’ Gardens (check out the last 13 photos above of this little paradise or see Myers’ Gardens on Facebook.
Pump action shower, outhouse, picnic table and fire pit. Bring your own cooler and ice. Though there's a small pool of water behind the cabin that cold that items can be placed in.
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Starry Fields
3. Starry Fields
100%
(17)
4.5mi from Spencer · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled in the foothills of the Fingerlakes, just 15 minutes outside of Ithaca, we are grateful to share this charming 10 acre property with you. On clear nights, the skies at Starry Fields are an endless marvel, with thousands of stars in view.
A gentle stream runs along the back of the property, with mown paths leading to our outhouse with a compostable toilet, a fully enclosed off-grid outdoor shower with on-demand hot water, fully stocked outdoor kitchen and a fire pit. Wood is available for purchase. Bordered on the front side of the property by a local road for easy access.
We offer a 16'x18' crest tent on a raised wooden platform with a 6' covered porch, perfect for a peaceful meal, reading, a game of cards, or rolling out your yoga mat.
For those who prefer to pitch their own tent, there is an 8'x8' wooden platform available by the creek.
There is also a gravel parking pad with power suitable for vans, car camping or small campers.
The property is a short 15 minute drive to Buttermilk Falls State Park, Robert Treman State Park, and the city limits of Ithaca which offers a variety of options for hiking, dining, shopping, music, culture and outdoor fun.
We are an inclusive campground that welcomes everyone who enjoys life in the great outdoors!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Robert H. Treman State Park
4. Robert H. Treman State Park
96%
(13)
State park 13mi from Spencer · 85 sites
You will find breathtaking moments beneath one of the park’s 12 waterfalls. Twelve! Hike along nine miles of trails in Enfield Glen, a rugged wooded gorge that will leave you wide-eyed with wonder. Take in views of the 115-foot Lucifer Falls from the gorgeous Gorge Trail or explore a Historic Gristmill.
Probably the park’s coolest attraction is a natural swimming pool at the base of Lower Falls. It’s perfect for a hot summer day and even has a diving board! Pro tip: check the water temperature on the park’s website before you go, it varies widely. There is also plenty of fishing and hunting nearby. Plus, options for the kiddos make this a destination for the whole family. After a long day of chasing waterfalls, stop for a post-hike beverage at Ithaca Brewery.
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Buttermilk Falls State Park
5. Buttermilk Falls State Park
100%
(12)
State park 14mi from Spencer · 51 sites
Imagine 600 feet of water cascading gently into a shallow pool. Welcome to Buttermilk Falls.
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Red House Ranch Camp
6. Red House Ranch Camp
100%
(266)
4.6mi from Spencer · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We have three camp sites on a 200-acre parcel of secluded, rural farm land. We are a working pasture based farm where you can see how grass fed beef, pork, chicken, and eggs are produced. There's nothing quite like fresh eggs and bacon after waking up to the sunrise over a fog-filled valley!
When you arrive we will provide a complimentary carton of pastured raised eggs and you are welcome to visit our web site (redhouseranch . net) or store to order meats for your stay and/or to take with you upon your departure. We have a wide variety of grass fed beef, pasture raised pork, snack sticks for long hikes, and dog bones and smoked treats for your furry friends. Many of our items are well suited for campfire cooking. Keep in mind that all our products are frozen so be sure to plan for time to thaw. If you're not sure what that involves - we're here to help.
We are a working farm but, much of our property is not grazed or farmed. You are welcome to explore the entire area while also getting a glimpse of sustainable, pasture-based, farming methods. Learn more about us and the history of the farm at our website.
As you roam the hills and forests you'll eventually bump into some of our animals. Please do not enter the animal enclosures or touch any of the electrified fence lines. If you really want to pet a piggie or hold a chicken - just reach out to Ike or Dave and we will gladly arrange this for you.
Red House Ranch is also the perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers. During your stay you may encounter eagles, blue herons, coyotes, turtles, wild turkeys, foxes, the endangered bobolink bird (its unique call sounds a bit like R2D2), deer, great horned owls, and many unique plants. It's not uncommon to hear the coyotes howling at night.
In addition to hiking trails with incredible views, there are four ponds on the property easily accessible with mown paths. One is very large with a dock and suitable for swimming, paddling, fishing, or just relaxing but the water. The other three are smaller and are now primarily wildlife habitat. easily accessible with mown paths
If you're feeling adventurous, there is a more strenuous hike down into the creek bed where you can find miniature versions of the gorges and waterfalls that our region is known for. We are happy to provide maps and guidance or leave you to your own devices.
When skies are clear our area has very little light pollution and excellent star visibility. It's a great place to view the night sky during a meteor shower.
We hope you enjoy your stay as much as we enjoy living in the beautiful Southern Tier/Finger Lakes area!
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Karenville
7. Karenville
94%
(18)
7mi from Spencer · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Karenville is an adventure. It’s a tiny whimsical village with a Victorian influence. I built it one building at a time just for fun. I have been living here in Karenville for over 20 years totally electric free. Yes that’s right there is no electric or running water. No worries it’s all very civilized.
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Firefly field
8. Firefly field
97%
(18)
7.4mi from Spencer · 1 site
1 full hookup RV site
Sits at the top of a beautiful meadow.
Open meadow backed by New York State land.
Check in is anytime after 1:00.
Check out is 12:00 noon.
Private family site.
Pull in or back in not a drive through site.
Fire pit on site.
Room for a picnic table and your grill
Lots of winery's and State parks in the area. Beautiful lakes and waterway to explore
Pets
Full hookups
Hillside Pond with a View
9. Hillside Pond with a View
98%
(266)
12mi from Spencer · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We bought our beautiful 23 acres with our hacienda on it more than 30 years ago and we have had friends come camp here over the years. Our friends love to swim in our pond and bring their dogs over for hikes and mountain bike rides so we decided to open it up for others to enjoy. We are LGBTQ+ ally.
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Toilets
Campfires
Newtown Battlefield State Park
10. Newtown Battlefield State Park
State park 17mi from Spencer · 23 sites
A pretty intense battle took place at Newton Battlefield State Park during the American Revolution and today the parks serene forest and lush hills attract nature lovers and history buffs alike. Don your wool coat (don’t you look dapper) and make like Washington while you explore the areas historical landmarks and key points on the battlefield. There’s also kayaking and canoeing on the Chemung River and fishing for those who want to enjoy the wild side of this sacred piece of land. It’s easy to set up camp here too with cabins and tent sites. Put on your bloomers, head to Newtown and immerse yourself in the areas rich history.
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Watkins Glen State Park
11. Watkins Glen State Park
93%
(35)
State park 22mi from Spencer · 293 sites
Iconic Finger Lakes park with 19 waterfalls and dramatic gorges.
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Campfires
Taughannock Falls State Park
12. Taughannock Falls State Park
100%
(9)
State park 23mi from Spencer · 84 sites
Camp in the shadows of one of New York’s best waterfalls.
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Finger Lakes National Forest
13. Finger Lakes National Forest
40%
(5)
National forest 26mi from Spencer · 21 sites
Finger Lakes offers rustic and modern activities to get away from a busy life.
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Campfires
Orchard and Gorge At South Hill
14. Orchard and Gorge At South Hill
96%
(70)
12mi from Spencer · 2 sites
The tents are located between a 10 acre organic cider apple orchard and a 155 acre nature preserve with a 140' waterfall a 15 minute walk down the well-maintained trail. The cidery is a 5 minute walk and is open Thursday through Monday with food, drinks, and a beautiful view.
Orchard and Gorge Tents at South Hill Cider - Sites located at the edge of Ithaca, just 4 miles from the downtown Commons, 1.5 miles from Buttermilk Falls State Park, 3 miles from Ithaca College. The property is 5 miles from Cornell University, 7 miles from Museum of the Earth, and 5.5 miles from Sciencenter.
The accommodation is non-smoking.
Watkins Glen International is 29 miles, while Connecticut Hill State Game Management Area is 13 miles away. The nearest airport is Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport, 10 miles from this Site - Orchard and Gorge Tent at South Hill Cider
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Zbarn Home At Last (RV w/30 amp)
15. Zbarn Home At Last (RV w/30 amp)
94%
(27)
13mi from Spencer · 2 sites
Lovely creek wraps around boundary of property with medium growth trees. This RV site can fit up to a 28’ vehicle (longer up to 32' can work, but corner backing in is a little tight; contact to discuss before booking). Site is next to stream, bounded on opposite side by local road (so there is local traffic through the trees). There's a 30 amp electric hookup on site, but no sewer hookup. Water can be filled on property if needed. Location is just five minutes to Lower Treman Park or Buttermilk Park, with amazing hiking trails, seasonal stream fishing and swimming. Ten minute drive to Ithaca proper.
NOTES: No water Nov. 1 - April __? (hose can freeze). Firewood available in metal can. ***IMPORTANT!: If using water to fill your RV tank, PLEASE only run it for 10 minutes, then let it rest for an hour before repeating, so well does not get depleted.***
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Villa Villa Bula near Buttermilk
16. Villa Villa Bula near Buttermilk
96%
(83)
13mi from Spencer · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This land was once owned by Mr King (West King Road) There are many tiny houses on it built on this roadin the 1940's
for the stone quarry workers who build the gorge trails in the area. I bought 3 little houses here and 4 acres of land in 2002. I mowed a labyrinth in about an acre. I hope to add more to it as time goes on!
Learn more about this land:
The Villa Cocoon is a step up from camping -insulated with electric,a fan, a portable heater, bed & table. It can be used any time of year if you don't mind stomping through snow in the winter. Located near the fire pit and house. There's a nature trail on the property - it's a short walk to Upper Buttermilk and the gorge trail as well as the Fingerlake's trail! It's a space to reflect, cocoon, do a little art and reading...collage supplies and paint included as well as sampling essential oils and tea.
Keep in mind there is NO BATHROOM... just a pee bucket under the bed that you will empty & rinse out. Many use the nearby gas station or cafe. There's a washroom and eco bags & powder as back up. You can also arrange for bathroom usage in my house if your staying awhile.
YOU WILL need to bring -
Bedding - sheets, pillows, blankets or a sleeping bag.
A mug to help yourself to tea
Please, bring any garbage made with you.
I look forward to sharing my space which I have enjoyed myself, practicing music and art, reading and writing for self-care and growth. I really love the energy in it and feel such a small space holds people in a cozy and comfortable way.
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Glamping with a gorgeous view
17. Glamping with a gorgeous view
100%
(16)
14mi from Spencer · 1 site
Enjoy private fancy camping in this light-filled, fully furnished cabin on a platform overlooking a pond, pastures, and the valley beyond. Situated on a working farm just 15 min. southeast of Ithaca, NY, this is perfect for a family or romantic get-away. Unplug, relax, and visit the local trails, wineries, and waterfalls, or just hang out and enjoy the view!
We only have the one cabin, so you will have the entire space to yourselves, including the hot water showers, flush toilets, and outdoor kitchen at the nearby bath house.
Luxury camping has a greater level of comfort and convenience, but it is still camping. This means the camp area can be affected by extreme weather, insects, heat, and noises in the area (dogs barking, neighbors mowing lawns, etc.) We work hard to ensure the most pleasant stay possible. There are mosquito screens on all windows (and under the cabin decking!), but insects can still find ways to creep in. Rainstorms can be quite loud on the metal roof of the cabin. The bath house is a short walk away down a gravel path, which may feel longer in inclement weather. Keep this in mind when booking as we don't refund for insect issues or undesirable weather conditions during your stay.
We provide all linens and towels.
You will have private access to a rustic outdoor kitchen in the bath house, a 10-second walk from the tent cabin. The kitchen is stocked with a small fridge, 2-burner stove, dishes and flatware, cutting board and knives, olive oil and salt. We also supply a charcoal grill, charcoal, and a lighter. We provide fresh-ground organic coffee and sugar, a French press, and a drip coffee pot. We also provide a fire ring, kindling, and firewood you can use to have a campfire during your stay.
A wide variety of staples (including beverages (24 beers on tap!), sandwiches, and breakfast options) is available at Brookton's Market 2 miles down the road.
Other things to note
There is no Wifi at the cabin or bath house, and cell service is very spotty and somewhat dependent on your carrier.
While there is electric service at the kitchen/bath house for charging phones and other devices, the cabin has no electricity. We provide some basic ambient lights and portable solar lanterns, but you may want to bring headlamps.
The parking area is about 50-60 yards from the tent. There is a gravel path to walk on.
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Copper's Green Forest
18. Copper's Green Forest
100%
(11)
15mi from Spencer · 1 site · Tent, RV
RV power hookup for a single camper. Provides access to trails through 60 acres of forest, creeks, and wetlands. Quick drive down the road to the Town/Village of Owego with trendy restaurants, cute shops, and riverwalk. Not far from Tioga Downs Casino, Finger Lakes, local universities, and wineries/breweries. Very quiet property where you can relax and enjoy the country.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Barred Owl Woods
19. Barred Owl Woods
99%
(48)
15mi from Spencer · 2 sites
The campsites and our home are on a forested hillside adjacent to Connecticut Hill State Game Land, one of the largest in New York State and a place for hiking, XC skiing, birding and mountain biking. The campsites are 2.4 miles from a trailhead of the Fingerlakes Trail which traverses the state and is only a half mile from Cayuta Lake, a small Fingerlake
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Cayuta Sun Farm
20. Cayuta Sun Farm
96%
(84)
16mi from Spencer · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Cayuta Sun is a small, permaculture-inspired farm. On pasture and under the canopy of trees, we raised heritage breed hogs (American Berkshire.)
We currently offer our artisanal pork at farmers markets and at the farm by appointment.
This farm is the home of Michael Burns & Kelly Dietz who seek to build a local, regenerative economy that builds community and supports food sovereignty. Each year we commit to struggle and innovation to produce food that is healthy for our environment and ourselves.
Cayuta Sun Farm has also supported sustainable farming education by hosting workshops and events, especially with the Finger Lakes Permaculture Institute.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
K
Katie
1 week ago
22 ft travel trailer
With pets
The spot was completely level and so peaceful! My husband, my 3 large dogs and myself had a lovely long weekend. We will definitely be back!
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J
Jessica
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
My fiancé and I had an excellent time with our new dog camping, looking at the stars, and visiting Ithaca.
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B
Brody
1 week ago
Tent
Joe’s land was beautiful and was exactly what we were looking for.
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J
Julia
1 week ago
Weekend Trip to What Ever Floats Your Boat
We had a wonderful stay here! Beautiful area, clean cabin, the creek was a bonus and was super relaxing to hear it go by at the campfire. Hope to visit again!
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H
Haley
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
Loved tent camping here! Beautiful place with enough privacy from neighbors.
See moreG
Gina
1 week ago
12 ft campervan
With kids
The location was beautiful and we were greeted by two very friendly dogs that loved their bellies rubbed! Serene and memorable, definitely worth a stay. Host was very responsive.
See moreM
Melissa
2 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful area, loved the pine forest! Amazing sunset and view of the mountains. Host was responsive and helpful, and refunded a night of bad weather when we couldn’t stay at camp. Hope to come back here again!
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K
Katie
2 weeks ago
16 ft travel trailer
Great spot, just as described! We liked watching the deer on the hill and just down the way about a mile there are public forest roads and trails to explore. Really nice!
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S
Stacy
2 weeks ago
24 ft Class B
A carnivore's dream! We had an amazing night enjoying all kinds of delicious meats in the most peaceful place on Earth. The view and quiet was the relaxation we needed! Thank you for sharing your slice of heaven with us!!
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R
Russell
2 weeks ago
13 ft campervan
Very nice site, strong wifi, electric hookup worked well. Feels private and pretty natural-ey! I’d stay here again for sure.
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K
Kurt
2 weeks ago
28 ft fifth wheel
With pets
Nice quiet site, lots of room. A nice short hike right across the road and a short drive to Ithaca
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K
Krista
2 weeks ago
Tent
We really enjoyed our stay here! The two lean-tos are beautifully built from solid local wood, thoughtfully made, and provide a nice place to set up. The owners have created a lovely woodsy artisan feel.
Both lean-tos look out into the woods and the sawdust paths were such a nice touch—comfortable to walk on and felt very natural in the setting. The composting toilet shack was clean and odor-free—outfitted with thoughtful additions like hand sanitizer, broom, maps, mirror, and paper towels.
The lean-tos aren’t completely secluded, since a driveway runs past them and is used by the owners, but they are very friendly and welcoming; we enjoyed meeting them (and their very friendly dog!) If privacy is your top priority, it’s worth knowing you may see the occasional person or car go by, and Rook may pay you a friendly visit 😉
Definitely (and naturally) keep your food securely closed up—there are mice! But we were told bears and coyotes are not likely.
Phone service is sketchy, so you may want to plan your trips and how to get there before.
The location is fantastic for exploring the Watkins Glen area. It’s close to the beautiful gorge hikes, wineries, and breweries, while still being nicely removed from the busier tourist areas.
Overall, we loved the character of this property. The beautiful craftsmanship, thoughtful details, natural setting, and great location made it a really enjoyable place to camp.
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K
Krista
2 weeks ago
Tent
We really enjoyed our stay here! The two lean-tos are beautifully built from solid local wood, thoughtfully made, and provide a nice spot to set up. The owners have created a lovely woodsy artisan feel.
Both lean-tos look out into the woods, and the sawdust paths were such a nice touch—comfortable to walk on and felt very natural in the setting. The composting toilet shack was clean and odor-free—outfitted with thoughtful additions like hand sanitizer, broom, maps, mirror, and paper towels.
The lean-tos aren’t completely secluded, since a driveway runs past them and the owners use it to get to their home, but they are very friendly and welcoming; we enjoyed meeting them (and their extremely friendly dog!). If privacy is your top priority, it’s worth knowing you may see the occasional person or car go by, and Rook may pay you a friendly visit 😉
Definitely (and naturally) keep your food securely closed up—there are nice! 😉 But we were told bears and coyotes were not likely.
Phone service is sketchy, so you may want to plan your trips and how to get there before.
The location is fantastic for exploring the Watkins Glen area. It’s close to the beautiful gorge hikes, wineries, and breweries, while still being nicely removed from the busier tourist areas.
Overall, we loved the character of this property. The beautiful craftsmanship, thoughtful details, natural setting, and great location made it a really enjoyable place to camp.
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A
Alyssa
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We really enjoyed the In the Pines tent site! The fire wood was at our site upon arrival. The property itself was so beautiful and peaceful. The compost toilet was very clean and maintained daily. Would love to visit again!
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F
Frederick
2 weeks ago
With pets
Tent was great! Literally right on the trail network! All you have to do is wake up, step outside, and go hiking.
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L
Laura
3 weeks ago
10 ft campervan
This is such a special place! The pond-- amazing swimming! The views. The peace. To say nothing of the dozen eggs as a welcome gift. Even the outhouse is smartly designed. Really. And I am dining on a purchased cut of beef from thier farm.
I cannot recommend this lovely sanctuary highly enough!
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L
Leslie
3 weeks ago
With pets
The camp site was exactly what we were looking for. An easy way to enjoy nearby trails and have a place to land and rest once we had played in the woods and creeks. We appreciated being able to drive up to the site and then parking a little further away once we had unloaded our gear.
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Lisa
3 weeks ago
Tent
This was the perfect spot for a short stay or a longer one. Close to Ithaca and many state parks. Beautiful spot! Thank you! ☺️
See moreC
Catherine
3 weeks ago
40 ft travel trailer
Very beautiful views. Quiet peaceful and scenic. Great hosts!
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J
Jen
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Beautiful land. Grassy and flat camping spots with a very clean compost toilet nearby.
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