- Mountainou Camping
The best mountainous camping near Mitchell
98% (266) • 9 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Mitchell
Back Side of Painted Hills Camping
1. Back Side of Painted Hills Camping
97%
(112)
7.5mi from Mitchell · 1 site · Tent, RV
This 320 acre plot of land on which you can hike anywhere has been in our family since 1993.
Large, graveled spot for tents or two vehicles with excellent view for miles and miles and night star gazing. Primitive outhouse. Juniper forest with sage brush... basically high desert vegetation. We only allow one reservation per night. You can arrange vehicles or tents to not be in view or block any view from house way above. 320 acres to hike and roam. Mitchell is 10 miles away with well stocked grocery and feed store, restaurants, small brewery, and tire shop. We give directions fairly quickly. Road is wide, but steep at top. 4 wheel drive is recommended. Very close to the Painted Hills Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National monument, Ochoco National Forest is seven miles. John Day River for swimming, rafting about 20 minutes. If you can book, it means you can drive on up with out contacting us. As you drive in if at night, you will see a light on the outhouse.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$21
/ night
The Enclave, OR
2. The Enclave, OR
100%
(31)
12mi from Mitchell · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to Twickenham, Oregon, a hidden gem in Wheeler County's vast, dark sky zone. Prepare to be amazed by unparalleled stargazing, where the celestial canvas comes alive with breathtaking clarity.
Our spacious campsite on a private 10-acre property offers unparalleled stargazing, where you can witness pristine celestial displays and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) that frequent the area.
Wheeler County was recently highlighted in Investigation Alien, a Netflix documentary led by George Knapp. This area offers a unique opportunity to connect with the cosmos and perhaps witness something truly extraordinary.
The Enclave provides the perfect base for your celestial adventures with dramatic day views of the rimrocks, mountains, and open skies.
Explore nearby wonders like the John Day Fossil Beds, Painted Hills, and the John Day River, or simply relax under the star-studded canopy. We're conveniently located just one mile from the Twickenham Bridge, a popular access point for John Day River float trips.
The property features a 6,120 sq ft fenced garden and lavender crop – fresh produce, herbs, and lavender are available seasonally.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$35
/ night
Haystack Ranch
3. Haystack Ranch
94%
(142)
28mi from Mitchell · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
My family has owned the ranch since 1977. We bought it from my parents a few years ago to keep it in the family. We love living here, and although it is just the two of us working it, we are slowly getting it to what we want it to be. The house we live in is over 100 years old and used to be a stage coach stop back in the late 1800's to early 1900's, You can still see some of the old stage coach roads on the property, and we are trying to preserve those the best we can. Also in the early 1900's this ranch used to be the place to go on the fourth of July. People from all over would bring their prize horses to compete in a horse race for the name of the fastest horses around While others would bring picnic baskets to set back on the knoll in one of our fields to watch. Learn more about this land:We are a 500 Acre working ranch located in Beautiful East Central Oregon, We are Between The stunning Painted Hills, and Umatilla National Forest. Just a few miles away from the Gorgeous John Day River, where Rafting, Tubing, Fishing, Swimming is always a welcome retreat. A few miles above us is Bull Prairie Lake and the wonderful Umatilla National Forest where hiking, sight seeing and wildlife viewing is always available.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Prineville Acres Private RV Camping
4. Prineville Acres Private RV Camping
96%
(12)
41mi from Mitchell · 1 site
Prineville Acres is a 2 acre, flat and peaceful, uninhabited rustic getaway in Prineville to enjoy all to yourselves. It is 7 minutes from Prineville Reservoir and 12 minutes South of the heart of Prineville. The property is situated on a quiet corner, and is best suited for campers who want a more private experience as there is no host living on site and you do not share the space with others. The center area is cleared of trees, has a newly updated gravelled fire ring for warming fires, and a newly gravelled RV pad and parking area along one side. There is a deck for setting up tables or tents, and trees surrounding the perimeter of the property. The adjacent property is also uninhabited, adding to your sense of privacy, while the neighboring property to the rear has year round, live- in very quiet tenants. Dear travel through the property at all times of the year so please be respectful of wildlife.
In the summer, bring your boat, kayaks, bikes, paddle boards, off road vehicles or ATV's, and use them in the surrounding waterways, on the nearby public use BLM land, Millican Valley OHV Trail System, or Four Corners Staging Area. Bring your family's fishing poles and take the kids to the local Youth Fishing Pond, nearby Haystack or Ochoco or Prineville Reservoirs that are stocked year-round with trout. Within just a couple minutes of the property is a local petting zoo you are sure to enjoy and be sure to stop in town at Tastee Treet for the best milkshakes and burgers around! And- if you like micro brews or cider's in a laid-back open-air fire side setting, stop by the Wild Ride Brewery for a truly epic outdoor family friendly experience and grab a pizza or fish n chips at the on-site food carts!
I hope you enjoy the peace and quiet and the most beautiful night sky and that you get a chance to explore all the fun things to do
Pets
from
$25
/ night
Desert Rose Private Campground
5. Desert Rose Private Campground
97%
(17)
44mi from Mitchell · 3 sites
Welcome to our family's Private Campground - The Desert Rose. A boondocking site for you and your family to enjoy!
We have a Yurt, a cabin, 3 RV/Travel trailer pads and 2 tent sites created here and plenty of room for everyone to have their own space yet be all together. You can book the entire campground, or just one of the units. Whether it's just you, or you're bringing a crew, we know you'll love it here!
Our favorite hikes in the Central Oregon area is Smith Rocks and Chimney Rock. The Prineville reservoir is roughly a 12 minute drive and the starry nights here are something to behold.
Up the road is the most unique petting zoo that we recently found! Find it and you might just be able to hold a baby kangaroo!
Boondocking site means there is no hook-ups or running water so you'll want to bring in your own water and heat if you're here in the colder months.
Your four legged furry family members are welcomed! They must be accompanied at all times and not left on the property alone. The dog run is for you to keep closer tabs on them while relaxing, not for leaving them while going into town or enjoying the area. The dirt is very soft and it wouldn't take very long for them to dig under to get out and go looking for you. The cabin or yurt is also not a pet storage area - with no power or AC, pets are not allowed to be left alone in the dwellings.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$75
/ night
The Star Colony
6. The Star Colony
41mi from Mitchell · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to the future site of The Star Colony.
The Star Colony – 2-Acre Private Desert Site + AR Experience
This 2-acre private high desert property in Central Oregon is currently undeveloped — raw, open land surrounded by expansive skies, mountain views, and quiet natural terrain.
What makes this stay different:
In addition to renting the land itself, guests can access an exclusive augmented reality (AR) experience that reveals the planned Star Colony pyramid structure on-site. Using your phone, you can stand on the land and see the future pyramid rise in full scale — walk around it, view it from different angles, and experience the architectural vision where it will eventually be built.
You are experiencing the beginning of a project before it exists.
The land is ideal for:
• Tent camping
• Vanlife / overlanding
• Stargazing and astrophotography
• Content creation
• Quiet day or overnight retreats
Important:
This is raw land. There are no built structures, no utilities, and no traditional amenities. Guests must be fully self-contained and pack in / pack out.
This stay is for people who appreciate open terrain, big skies, and experimental experiences — not resort convenience.
The Star Colony is evolving.
This is Phase Zero.
Pets
from
$30
/ night
Karibu Cabin
7. Karibu Cabin
100%
(3)
48mi from Mitchell · 2 sites
Escape to this charming log cabin nestled on 160 acres of beautiful woods, offering breathtaking mountain top views that will leave you in awe. Accommodating five or more guests, this rustic retreat is perfect for families and friends looking to reconnect with nature. Pets are welcome, making it an ideal getaway for your furry companions.
Experience the true essence of the outdoors with dry camping available for RVs and tents, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene landscape. Note that this cabin features no running water or electricity however it does have a nice wood stove, providing an authentic off-grid experience. Enjoy starlit nights, crackling campfires, and the soothing sounds of nature right outside your door.
This incredible land is also a prime spot for hunting season. We HAVE LOP TAGS AVAILABLE FOR ELK AND DEER. APPLICATION DEADLINE IS FAST APPROACHING. Please contact us for details!
This cabin is the perfect base for your outdoor pursuits. Whether you’re adventuring, hiking, hunting, riding or simply relaxing with a book, Karibu Cabin is the ultimate retreat for your outdoor adventure!
This property welcomes ATVs, dirt bikes, and snowmobiles. Please note that all activities are at your own risk, and we are not liable for any injuries or other damages done by the above mentioned.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$99
/ night
98% (266) • 9 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Mitchell
Back Side of Painted Hills Camping
1. Back Side of Painted Hills Camping
97%
(112)
7.5mi from Mitchell · 1 site · Tent, RV
This 320 acre plot of land on which you can hike anywhere has been in our family since 1993.
Large, graveled spot for tents or two vehicles with excellent view for miles and miles and night star gazing. Primitive outhouse. Juniper forest with sage brush... basically high desert vegetation. We only allow one reservation per night. You can arrange vehicles or tents to not be in view or block any view from house way above. 320 acres to hike and roam. Mitchell is 10 miles away with well stocked grocery and feed store, restaurants, small brewery, and tire shop. We give directions fairly quickly. Road is wide, but steep at top. 4 wheel drive is recommended. Very close to the Painted Hills Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National monument, Ochoco National Forest is seven miles. John Day River for swimming, rafting about 20 minutes. If you can book, it means you can drive on up with out contacting us. As you drive in if at night, you will see a light on the outhouse.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$21
/ night
The Enclave, OR
2. The Enclave, OR
100%
(31)
12mi from Mitchell · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to Twickenham, Oregon, a hidden gem in Wheeler County's vast, dark sky zone. Prepare to be amazed by unparalleled stargazing, where the celestial canvas comes alive with breathtaking clarity.
Our spacious campsite on a private 10-acre property offers unparalleled stargazing, where you can witness pristine celestial displays and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) that frequent the area.
Wheeler County was recently highlighted in Investigation Alien, a Netflix documentary led by George Knapp. This area offers a unique opportunity to connect with the cosmos and perhaps witness something truly extraordinary.
The Enclave provides the perfect base for your celestial adventures with dramatic day views of the rimrocks, mountains, and open skies.
Explore nearby wonders like the John Day Fossil Beds, Painted Hills, and the John Day River, or simply relax under the star-studded canopy. We're conveniently located just one mile from the Twickenham Bridge, a popular access point for John Day River float trips.
The property features a 6,120 sq ft fenced garden and lavender crop – fresh produce, herbs, and lavender are available seasonally.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$35
/ night
Haystack Ranch
3. Haystack Ranch
94%
(142)
28mi from Mitchell · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
My family has owned the ranch since 1977. We bought it from my parents a few years ago to keep it in the family. We love living here, and although it is just the two of us working it, we are slowly getting it to what we want it to be. The house we live in is over 100 years old and used to be a stage coach stop back in the late 1800's to early 1900's, You can still see some of the old stage coach roads on the property, and we are trying to preserve those the best we can. Also in the early 1900's this ranch used to be the place to go on the fourth of July. People from all over would bring their prize horses to compete in a horse race for the name of the fastest horses around While others would bring picnic baskets to set back on the knoll in one of our fields to watch. Learn more about this land:We are a 500 Acre working ranch located in Beautiful East Central Oregon, We are Between The stunning Painted Hills, and Umatilla National Forest. Just a few miles away from the Gorgeous John Day River, where Rafting, Tubing, Fishing, Swimming is always a welcome retreat. A few miles above us is Bull Prairie Lake and the wonderful Umatilla National Forest where hiking, sight seeing and wildlife viewing is always available.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Prineville Acres Private RV Camping
4. Prineville Acres Private RV Camping
96%
(12)
41mi from Mitchell · 1 site
Prineville Acres is a 2 acre, flat and peaceful, uninhabited rustic getaway in Prineville to enjoy all to yourselves. It is 7 minutes from Prineville Reservoir and 12 minutes South of the heart of Prineville. The property is situated on a quiet corner, and is best suited for campers who want a more private experience as there is no host living on site and you do not share the space with others. The center area is cleared of trees, has a newly updated gravelled fire ring for warming fires, and a newly gravelled RV pad and parking area along one side. There is a deck for setting up tables or tents, and trees surrounding the perimeter of the property. The adjacent property is also uninhabited, adding to your sense of privacy, while the neighboring property to the rear has year round, live- in very quiet tenants. Dear travel through the property at all times of the year so please be respectful of wildlife.
In the summer, bring your boat, kayaks, bikes, paddle boards, off road vehicles or ATV's, and use them in the surrounding waterways, on the nearby public use BLM land, Millican Valley OHV Trail System, or Four Corners Staging Area. Bring your family's fishing poles and take the kids to the local Youth Fishing Pond, nearby Haystack or Ochoco or Prineville Reservoirs that are stocked year-round with trout. Within just a couple minutes of the property is a local petting zoo you are sure to enjoy and be sure to stop in town at Tastee Treet for the best milkshakes and burgers around! And- if you like micro brews or cider's in a laid-back open-air fire side setting, stop by the Wild Ride Brewery for a truly epic outdoor family friendly experience and grab a pizza or fish n chips at the on-site food carts!
I hope you enjoy the peace and quiet and the most beautiful night sky and that you get a chance to explore all the fun things to do
Pets
from
$25
/ night
Desert Rose Private Campground
5. Desert Rose Private Campground
97%
(17)
44mi from Mitchell · 3 sites
Welcome to our family's Private Campground - The Desert Rose. A boondocking site for you and your family to enjoy!
We have a Yurt, a cabin, 3 RV/Travel trailer pads and 2 tent sites created here and plenty of room for everyone to have their own space yet be all together. You can book the entire campground, or just one of the units. Whether it's just you, or you're bringing a crew, we know you'll love it here!
Our favorite hikes in the Central Oregon area is Smith Rocks and Chimney Rock. The Prineville reservoir is roughly a 12 minute drive and the starry nights here are something to behold.
Up the road is the most unique petting zoo that we recently found! Find it and you might just be able to hold a baby kangaroo!
Boondocking site means there is no hook-ups or running water so you'll want to bring in your own water and heat if you're here in the colder months.
Your four legged furry family members are welcomed! They must be accompanied at all times and not left on the property alone. The dog run is for you to keep closer tabs on them while relaxing, not for leaving them while going into town or enjoying the area. The dirt is very soft and it wouldn't take very long for them to dig under to get out and go looking for you. The cabin or yurt is also not a pet storage area - with no power or AC, pets are not allowed to be left alone in the dwellings.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$75
/ night
The Star Colony
6. The Star Colony
41mi from Mitchell · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to the future site of The Star Colony.
The Star Colony – 2-Acre Private Desert Site + AR Experience
This 2-acre private high desert property in Central Oregon is currently undeveloped — raw, open land surrounded by expansive skies, mountain views, and quiet natural terrain.
What makes this stay different:
In addition to renting the land itself, guests can access an exclusive augmented reality (AR) experience that reveals the planned Star Colony pyramid structure on-site. Using your phone, you can stand on the land and see the future pyramid rise in full scale — walk around it, view it from different angles, and experience the architectural vision where it will eventually be built.
You are experiencing the beginning of a project before it exists.
The land is ideal for:
• Tent camping
• Vanlife / overlanding
• Stargazing and astrophotography
• Content creation
• Quiet day or overnight retreats
Important:
This is raw land. There are no built structures, no utilities, and no traditional amenities. Guests must be fully self-contained and pack in / pack out.
This stay is for people who appreciate open terrain, big skies, and experimental experiences — not resort convenience.
The Star Colony is evolving.
This is Phase Zero.
Pets
from
$30
/ night
Karibu Cabin
7. Karibu Cabin
100%
(3)
48mi from Mitchell · 2 sites
Escape to this charming log cabin nestled on 160 acres of beautiful woods, offering breathtaking mountain top views that will leave you in awe. Accommodating five or more guests, this rustic retreat is perfect for families and friends looking to reconnect with nature. Pets are welcome, making it an ideal getaway for your furry companions.
Experience the true essence of the outdoors with dry camping available for RVs and tents, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene landscape. Note that this cabin features no running water or electricity however it does have a nice wood stove, providing an authentic off-grid experience. Enjoy starlit nights, crackling campfires, and the soothing sounds of nature right outside your door.
This incredible land is also a prime spot for hunting season. We HAVE LOP TAGS AVAILABLE FOR ELK AND DEER. APPLICATION DEADLINE IS FAST APPROACHING. Please contact us for details!
This cabin is the perfect base for your outdoor pursuits. Whether you’re adventuring, hiking, hunting, riding or simply relaxing with a book, Karibu Cabin is the ultimate retreat for your outdoor adventure!
This property welcomes ATVs, dirt bikes, and snowmobiles. Please note that all activities are at your own risk, and we are not liable for any injuries or other damages done by the above mentioned.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$99
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Heidi
November 2025
1 night at Karibu Cabin
Nathan’s hunting cabin is absolutely perfect if you’re looking for a super secluded, extremely private, unplugged getaway. Nestled in the trees, on the most beautiful land, it’s just you and nature and all the stars you could ever hope for. The views are spectacular and the vibes are tranquil and serene. Nathan was easy to communicate with when our gps took us on a wrong turn and extremely helpful with getting us back on the right track. The cabin has propane lanterns for lighting but I suggest bringing some safe-burning candles and enjoying a romantic night in nature. We will definitely be back!
See more
D
Duncan
October 2025
18 ft travel trailer
This site is beautiful, very quiet and in a lovely and scenic part of Oregon near the painted hills. Dickse was friendly and helpful in providing information and welcomed us warmly. I would highly recommend this Hipcamp site.
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Shane
October 2025
Tent
The host was great, the space was great, the scenery was great and the area was great. Will definitely be staying here again.
See more
E
Ellie
October 2025
16 ft car
Great views! Lots of room to explore, caught it right before the snow came in late October! Thank you Bonnie!
See more
J
John
October 2025
20 ft travel trailer
This was an amazing property. Big area, lots of trees. Space for an RV, but not at all the locations, mainly just one but an RV can honestly park anywhere it wants, just might not have a picnic table readily available but the hosts will get you one. There's a cool outhouse and hand wash station. The best part is its only 30 minutes from John Day Fossil Painted Hills. There's a cool bar and pizza food truck about 3 miles away and the town of Spray has the basic necessities. The hosts let you use their water hose that's at the edge of their house property on the fence next to the road so you can top off your RV when you get there and refill canisters if you run out. Overall great site, low frills, primitive location.
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J
Jess
September 2025
Tent
Super beautiful and private! Picnic tables were a fun surprise. The outhouse was clever and clean!
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Leila
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Loved this private spot perched high with views of the desert hills. It helped to have a more rugged vehicle to handle the steep rough road. Sunrise was gorgeous and the stargazing at night was incredible. We saw shooting stars across the Milky Way! We could occasionally see and hear the tenants at the house further up the hill (only when they were outside on the deck), but they were far enough away that it never felt intrusive. Otherwise, camp was super quiet and it felt like we had the WHOLE place to ourselves. Loved the trails on the property. The only bummer was that there were a lot of pokies that kept getting stuck in our dogs' paws which kept us from exploring more. So if you bring dogs, you may want to put booties on them. Loved the proximity to Painted Hills. This site is a total high desert gem and we will definitely be back!
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K
Kristen
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Camping at The Enclave was fabulous! The property itself is in a stunning location and close to plenty of amazing outdoor activities.
The campsite is fantastic, feels nice and tucked away and has plenty of modern amenities to make the stay quite comfortable: wi-fi, electricity, a clean bathroom space, a water hose.
D was a fantastic host, and is so kind and easy going. They have put so many thoughtful touches into the space, brought us fresh cut lavender and grapes from the garden, and let us help ourselves to the produce growing at the pergola. The solar powered lights, water fountains, hummingbird feeders, cozy chairs, flowers, and guides to the surrounding area were just a few of the stand out amenities that were really the cherry on top of a beautiful campsite.
The campsite does have straw-like grass clippings on the ground to keep the dust at bay, so be sure to bring a pair of slip on shoes to walk around outside, and a mat to catch any stray clippings outside of your tent!
See moreM
Meghan
September 2025
Tent
We had such a relaxing time tent camping here. The stars were incredible! The little outhouse was very clean and everything worked great. We loved listening to the coyotes tip and howl at night, and having coffee in the morning on the little patio. A very sweet little spot.
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R
Ro
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Camping at the Enclave was amazing!! The grounds are perfect for tent camping, especially with the shaded and comfy lounge area, and the toilet and pump sink provided are incredibly clean and easy to use. The views you can see just from the campsite are incredibly pretty as well, and at night the stars are absolutely gorgeous--it was one of the main things we came out for and it was perfect!! The Enclave is also situated perfectly to go out and experience tons of other things without having to spend all day driving. It's also very dog-friendly, we had our 6 month old cavalier with us and there was plenty of room for her to run around on a line. Dickse herself is very friendly and willing to help out with whatever you need, and if you're lucky she might give you some fresh-picked lavender!! We'll definitely be back with family! 💚
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Rebecca
September 2025
16 ft car
Campsite was beautiful, clean bathroom. The stars were unreal. I was the only one there and it was amazing
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Jay
September 2025
Tent
It truly was a place to myself with a big, dark, clear sky and a cozy spot to hang. Great touches all around, and the drive in from the town of Mitchell was a bonus treat.
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K
Karl
September 2025
15 ft travel trailer
With pets
Quiet, beautiful! Light trucks (SUV’s) with small trailers can easily negotiate the road in
We did not meet Bonnie.
See more
S
Sean
September 2025
Tent
I really liked this place. The Lounge was great for sitting during the heat of the day. The toilet was clean and well stocked. Fresh water was readily available. The scenery was amazing and Dickse was a great host.
See moreJ
Jill
September 2025
Tent
Great private site with a beautiful view and amazing spot for stargazing in the dark sky. The trees provided nice shade in the heat. The charcoal grill was very little but worked well for two people. The bathroom and site were clean and well maintained.
See moreS
Samantha
September 2025
Tent
Beautiful part of the state with wide open grass lands and interesting geological sites.
The camp was quiet and comfortable. We had trees for shade and were an easy walk from the nicely maintained outhouse. A pump handwashing station was a nice touch.
Plenty of camp site options with level ground for camper vans (or tents/RV's).
Be prepared for lots of prickly bur buttercup, black medic, chickweed, and thistle.
See moreM
Matthew
September 2025
Tent
With kids
What a great spot! D was amazing and the spot was perfect for visiting the fossil bed sites and all the other natural gems in the area.
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K
KATHERINE
August 2025
Tent
With kids
Beautiful location! We loved the sunset and stars, it was quiet and beautiful. My husband was worried about the steepness of the mile-long loose gravel road, but our SUV made it up fine. We brought one of those large blue water jugs and only needed about half of it for the four of us, and it was an easy drive to visit the Painted Hills the following morning. Would love to go back.
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R
Robin
August 2025
19 ft campervan
A beautiful, remote little oasis in canyon land! The bathroom and outdoor space are so sweet and comfortable, Dickse is a master craftsman and a really rad person. 10/10
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R
Rob
August 2025
With kids
It was as promised and we scored with the weather for the stars.
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