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May’s Rock Ranch

Hosted by Ben · Jamul, California
100%
·
25 reviews
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(AWD / 4WD access only) Come see the vast, open country of San Diego County's Deerhorn Valley with bucolic views of rocky hillsides and low valleys. You can even see the ocean on a clear day. The ranch is about 40 acres and spans from the creek on Honey Springs Road all the way to the top of the rocky hillside. There are restaurants, wineries, hiking trails and more all within 15 minutes of the ranch. This place is truly my passion and I welcome all respectful campers! (Respectful means no loud partying, leaving trash, ruining things, making giant messes, loads of dog poop, etc... Unfortunately, it needs to be said because some people do things like this.) Access: The driveway is steep with loose gravel and costly to maintain. Please ensure that all vehicles you want at the cabin have All Wheel Drive. Additional parking is available in a small dirt lot before the first hairpin turn. You'll see a small sign indicating the lot. Cabin: 270sf studio cabin built from nearly all repurposed materials. There are three memory foam beds, one full and two twins. Generally, I have mattress protectors and one sheet since the large majority of guests use their own sleeping bags. Full size pillows are available as well as two single tent cots, stored under the bunk beds. Water: The property harvests rainwater for showering, washing, and rinsing but not for drinking. The shower on site has a rain barrel with water that flows through a coiled black hose to heat in the sun and then through a garden sprayer. It works well on a warm day. Solar Power: The cabin has 200 amp hours of lithium iron phosphate available through an 800w inverter then linked to standard AC outlets and USB. This means it can power small appliances and basically anything rechargeable. NO coffee pots, electric griddles or electric heaters. Toilet: It's a composting toilet in a private bathroom. PLEASE read the instructions prior to use. The sink has running water for washing your hands, not for drinking. Pets: Always welcome but, it should go without saying, please be responsible. Neighbors have found random dogs in their yard from guests not watching them. Also, there is no poop fairy. Hiking Trail: You'll notice a hiking trailhead at the camp. Mainly, it's an access trail for the rock climbing but is very enjoyable for a quick stroll through the hillside, depending on how far you want to go. It gets very steep in places and can be hard to follow as it's a work in progress. That said, have fun exploring the land. If you're looking for a better hiking option, Hollenbeck Canyon is right there at SR94 and Honey Springs Road. Word of Caution: Talk to the kiddos ahead of time to avoid issues. I have a lot of building materials and heavy items that could cause injury. There is a big bulldozer as well that's cool to look at and sit on but also could cause injury if not careful. All I ask is that things are left as they were found and to be careful. Other than that, go have a blast! Climbing: By rock climbing at this venue, you agree that you assume all liability and accept any risks as your responsibility. Dating back to the early 1970's, this little slice of climbing paradise has attracted strong rock climbers from around the San Diego area for decades. The pioneer of North Deerhorn Valley was a strongman named Ray Olson; a larger than life personality who's passion for the rock craft lead to the development of this area with help from like-minded go-getters and brush-breakers. It's a massive amount of work. San Diego brush is a force not to be taken lightly. Ray and crew established dozens of all-star climbs, perched up in the rocky hillsides of this peaceful valley, using only the rudimentary climbing gear available at those times. For years, they were the kings of their own land. That is, until, it was purchased. The new owner was less than hospitable to visitors of any kind and, just like that, the good times at the local crag were gone. Ray move on and sought out adventure elsewhere and North Deerhorn faded in their minds as the brush reclaimed the trails they hiked so many times before. North Deerhorn was forgotten... perhaps a nostalgic mention here and there on Supertopo. Fast forward to 2020. Covid. The world in utter chaos. Civility at the brink of irreversible damage. My wife and I are sitting on the couch one evening, like everyone else, feeling restless and cooped up. I mentioned to her that I really wanted to go camping. Gleefully, she told me that a friend of hers just returned from a camping trip somewhere locally. When she looked it up, my wife showed me photos on her phone of the area and said, "Hey there are big rocks there." Instinctively, I grabbed her phone and and flicked through the photos. I knew exactly where this was. It was North Deerhorn. The following weekend, we booked two nights there with the dogs. Any words I write here will never fully explain my feeling when we pulled up and I saw all the towering formations and giant boulders... It was a lifetime of climbing, just on this one hillside. I was in paradise. I was in Ray's paradise, fifty years later. Over the next several months I actually became good friends with the owner of the area, Brian. He purchased the land a couple years back for the family outings and for campers who love the beauty of such a dramatic landscape. I could best describe the camp as a Joshua Tree group site. The next couple years, Brian had I built a small studio cabin while I replaced the hundreds of bolts with new stainless steel. I also broke a new trail, touring all of the major formations. Climbing friends would help when and where they could and when it was climbing season... We went on a rampage. So many new lines established and boulders added to the lineup. It seemed never ending. Like on Christmas morning, we would peal back the brush and open our new toy, wether it be a boulder problem or a possible start to a new rock climb. It really is a dream come true. Ray, I wish you could see the good you’ve done. RIP. Final remarks: I have poured myself into this project. It's not a money-maker in any way, shape or form. Quite the contrary. Any payment I get from these bookings goes right back into the camp and the climbing. I want to share this place with those who similarly have a deep respect for the unrivaled beauty and the way it can quiet our minds.
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      Reviews

      100% Recommend29 ratings · 25 reviews
      Recommends
      · November 2023
      Amazing location and great host!
      With pets ·
      Cabaña
      What a great place. Ben's place is the reason why I don't bother with state campgrounds anymore. Amazing camp with incredible views and a sweet little cabin that has everything you need. My wife and I decided to skip the traditional Thanksgiving this year and go camping instead, and we wanted the perfect site to make it worthwhile. We found it here and would absolutely book it again. Ben was a great host and we truly appreciate the extra effort he put in to make it a great stay for us.
      Avatar
      Dave C.
      3 reviews
      Recommends
      · November 2023
      Group trip ·
      Cabaña
      You can't ask for a better experience than to get an entire crag to climb to yourselves! Ben really puts his heart into this property, adding a unique experience. You can even sleep peacefully in a cave with a luxurious setup! private bathroom, kitchen setup perfect for cooking/cleaning with running water, comfortable beds, and falling asleep to the sound of owls hooting. The climbing is incredible and I can't wait to go back to get on some more climbs!
      J
      Jaime C.
      2 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · October 2023
      With pets ·
      Cabaña
      Ben’s place is truly a slice of heaven! We felt like we were in our own little world amongst the huge boulders and cozy little cabin on the hill. The property is truly a labor of love, and all of Ben’s efforts did not go unnoticed. There was so much to explore, hidden gems to be found, and good times to be had. We can’t wait to return!
      Avatar
      Hannah S.
      2 reviews
      Recommends
      · October 2023
      Great spot!
      Cabaña
      Our stay on Ben's land was AMAZING!!! 🌟 This camp is now one of our favorites! Remote, quiet, beautiful nature all around. The cabin itself is well made, so much attention to detail. There are lights and outlets for charging things. Fun little secrets to discover around the property. Great sunsets! AWD is a must to get up the drive, just like the description says. And in addition-- make sure the vehicle has some clearance too. There are some spots that you'll scuff on if you come in a car that's too low. Wonderful place!! 😄🌞
      A
      Andrea B.
      5 reviews
      Recommends
      · October 2023
      Hard to beat…
      Group trip ·
      Cabaña
      Thank you Ben. You have a gem on your hands. Very envious of what you’ve done with it. Honestly, I’d give it a 10/10. The cave was an added bonus! Our group does this once a year and this certainly tops the list. Thank you for sharing it with others.
      B
      Bret A.
      3 reviews
      Recommends
      · October 2023
      Magic
      Group trip ·
      Cabaña
      Just magic. Plain and simple. We will be back, thanks for everything!
      E
      Ellie T.
      2 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · September 2023
      Hidden gem!!
      Group trip ·
      Cabaña
      This is such an awesome spot!!! You can tell a lot of thought has been put into making this an outdoors/climbers paradise. As architects/designers we really appreciated the design and repurposed materials used throughout the site with special touches like climbers socks. It is immensely comfortable and has pretty much every amenity you could hope for while still being away from distractions. Bathroom and shower were easy to use, kitchen sink was very convenient to have, the beds were really comfortable, a few sitting areas made it easy to adjust our hang out spot as the day progressed and afternoons got warmer. Plus finding the fun hidden swing was a neat surprise! But the real treat is a cave that Ben built another sleeping area in!! We even used it when it got pretty hot to get cool and keep away from bugs, at night it still felt nice and warm and the covered cots made us feel so secure when we slept. The viewing platform there was such a treat too. Our dogs absolutely loved exploring and playing at the site as well. A tip: bring your projector! We projected a movie on the rock adjacent to the cabaña and it was the perfect ending to our last night there. We are already planning our next trip back!!!
      M
      Melissa M.
      6 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · August 2023
      Group trip ·
      Cabaña
      What an excellent trip! My family came here to explore San Diego and climb, both of which were great! Ben is a great communicator and very helpful. The cabin was nice and small, perfect for our minimal needs. Lastly, the view and seclusion was perfect. Thanks for a great time!
      Avatar
      Amber L.
      3 reviews
      Recommends
      · August 2023
      The whole place is amazing!
      Group trip ·
      Cabaña
      Ben and his campsite are something special, I would give this place a 6/5 star rating if I could. Ben is top notch and wants to do everything he can to make sure your trip is special. He texted me ahead of my trip to make sure I had all the instructions and he had plenty of extra stuff on hand at the campsite if we forgot something. Ben's passion for this project really shows and we enjoyed everything. We went on Aug4-6th and the weather was perfect. I'm already planning on my return trip! Thanks for everything Ben you are the best!
      J
      James C.
      2 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · June 2023
      Wonderful experience
      Cabaña
      This place is truly awesome. Very cool to see the passion Ben has for the property and the inventive projects and additions. The scenery and surrounding rocks are beautiful and even better enjoyed if you’re a climber. Thank you for sharing your masterpiece with us!
      K
      Kiana M.
      2 reviews
      Recommends
      · May 2023
      With pets ·
      Cabaña
      We loved every minute of our time here. The cabin had everything we needed. We had a fun time exploring the grounds along with our older pup. Will definitely be back.
      L
      Lily L.
      6 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · May 2023
      Stress-free stay
      Cabaña
      Lovely stay and great developments since I was last there. They added a lovely little cabin with a queen and single style bunkbed, a table (inside and out), a sink with running water, and an outdoor cushioned lounge area which made packing for the stay super easy. Just bring food, drinking water, and your sleeping bag and you're set! Scenery and privacy are always the best and we enjoyed a nice hike on the trail on site. Many other places to climb if you're into that and lots of areas to hang out including a hammock spot. The details that have been put into this place like the enclosed fire pit and the outdoor lights, did not go unnoticed or unappreciated. The owner was also very responsive and friendly. Overall lovely experience and will return. Thank you for sharing such a lovely spot.
      S
      Sandy S.
      3 reviews
      Recommends
      · May 2023
      Group trip ·
      Cabaña
      Great place if you want to relax with family and climb some rocks at the same time. We were family of 4 with dog and friends. Had a great time at the cabin, fire at night, going to casino and nearby vineyard, hiking/running at hole back canyon, and of course some great climbing. If you have a dual sport motorcycle, some great trails and roads near the place as well. Sunsets and early morning mist was beautiful.
      A
      Arun J.
      2 reviews
      Recommends
      · May 2023
      With pets ·
      Cabaña
      We’re so grateful Ben is sharing his property for all of us to enjoy! What a hidden gem! The cabin was perfect and so cozy after a day exploring and climbing. We were already planning our next trip back while we were there!
      Avatar
      Kylie M.
      3 reviews
      Recommends
      · April 2023
      Great for climbing and exploring
      Cabaña
      I really want to keep this place a little secret, but I also need to give credit to Ben and this amazing slice of Heaven. So many great climbs and a perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of climbing. Ben was very communicative and such a great host. The place is so fun to explore and is really nice glamping. Good Meixcan food in town and not too far from Chula Vista and San Diego. Can’t wait to come back!
      Avatar
      Diana C.
      2 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · April 2023
      Cabaña
      Everything. This place was the most epic experience ever. The area is full of adventure. I’ll 100 percent be back. Ben thanks for a great few days we loved it, see you soon man.
      M
      Matt S.
      2 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · April 2023
      Fantastic campsite
      With kids ·
      Cabaña
      We love this spot and have camped there multiple times now. There are great climbing and hiking opportunities and the site itself has a lot of flat area, if you want to tent camp, although there is also a structure with bunk beds you can use too. Beautiful views and area. We will head back there many more times
      P
      Pete J.
      2 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · March 2023
      This is the place!
      Group trip ·
      Cabaña
      Very well laid out design with a basic needs cabin, memory foam pad beds, outhouse, some basic electrical and sink. Best part was the patio out front which is quite comfortable and cozy. The landscape is unmatched and truly an experience like no other in San Diego. Scrambling around was definitely another highlight. Couldn’t recommend this place enough. Thanks Ben.
      C
      Conrad H.
      2 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · February 2023
      Always an awesome experience
      Group trip ·
      Cabaña
      It’s always a pleasure to stay at Ben’s place. I have been several times, and each time is better than the last. Ben is so creative and it is really fun to see the improvements he has made each time. The property is utterly gorgeous, the granite boulders are spectacular, and you can see the ocean off in the distance. I highly recommend it..
      Avatar
      Sue H.
      5 reviews
      Recommends
      · February 2023
      With pets ·
      Cabaña
      Ben’s communication was fantastic during our whole stay. The cabin was exactly what we expected - it worked out great for our small family and dogs. The weather was not fantastic, so we did. It do any climbing. Ben checked in regularly and I am confident if any issues did arise he would have resolved them quickly. Thank you Ben for a great trip!
      T
      Theresa S.
      2 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · January 2023
      Cabaña
      Ben is super nice and has a beautiful property. Amazing climbing with views all the way to the ocean.
      V
      Vicente V.
      2 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · November 2022
      Ocean views from Jamul!?
      With kids ·
      Cabaña
      Our family had an AMAZING time at May's Rock Ranch. Firstly, Ben was incredibly helpful in ensuring that we were well informed about the directions, accommodations, and the property. The cabin was incredibly quaint. It was rustic, yet very stylish and suited our needs very well. There were many creature comforts available inside for use by the guests, such as binoculars, portable lighting, hammock, etc. The outdoor chairs were comfy, and the shade structure offered a nice break from the midday sun. The outhouse and outdoor sink were a couple sweet features as well. In the evening, we gathered around the portable fire pit and checked out the killer vistas as the sun sank down into the ocean. We didn't do any climbing this trip, but there were no shortage of proper routes on the premises. We enjoyed exploring around the property, strumming the guitar, and playing games -just unplugging and slowing it down. We would definitely recommend this place to anyone who's seeking some quality climbing, or looking for a fun, glamping experience.
      J
      Jason O.
      3 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · November 2022
      Group trip ·
      Cabaña
      Camping on Ben’s land was great! You get an amazing view of mountains and the rock formations surrounding the campsite and you can hike trails nearby. If you like to go off-roading, there are multiple truck trails close as well. The cabin was nice and there was more than enough space for me, my wife, my three children, and my small dog. Plenty of space around the site for exploring so my kids were never bored. Ben was very accommodating and communicated very well. He gave great recommendations to make the stay more enjoyable. I will definitely book this campsite again!
      L
      Leo C S.
      3 years on Hipcamp
      Recommends
      · October 2022
      Second Time was Even Better
      Cabaña
      See my first review for the longer version, but iIf you live in San Diego, you're doing yourself a disservice by not staying here. It's shocking that in 35 minutes, you're in a completely different world. You don't have to be a rock climber to have a good time. The trails here are steep, but worth the hike. There's great biking and hiking all throughout the area. Jamul Liquor or Lyons Valley Trading post have the essentials. Ben is an awesome host and I'll be staying again soon.
      Avatar
      Carl E.
      17 reviews
      Recommends
      · August 2022
      AMAYSING!
      Group trip ·
      Cabaña
      Let's start off with Ben...He is an exceptional host. He's accommodating, flexible and very responsive. He genuinely cares that his guests have a good time. Enough about Ben...let's get to the good stuff. Under 45 minutes from downtown San Diego, nestled in the boulders and mountains, MRR is a different world. Once you exit the main road, you easily find the entrance. The road is steep, winding and rough. Bring the Tacoma, not the Prius. The cabin, loo and shower fit in well amongst the Boulders. It felt very natural. The cabin had electricity, a wash sink, and bunk beds. Considering the heat, it did't get that warm during the day. The composting toilet and shower are easy to use. Views are amazing. I'm not a rock climber, but had plenty to do. I hiked the rock climbing trails. They're steep and a little confusing at times, but worth the effort. There are several bike trails in the area I wanted to try, but my mountain bike had a flat, but I road my other bike along the paved roads. It's very scenic on Lyons Valley Rd and there are a lot of different roads to take off Lyons. The only downside is the area is under development, but it looks as if it will be spread out and fairly private. I loved sitting on the patio at night listening to the crickets, owls and coyotes. I loved this place. It has a personality of its own. You have to go there to know what I mean. I can't believe it's under 45 minutes from downtown. I'm going back soon.
      Avatar
      Carl E.
      17 reviews

      Location

      Jamul, San Diego, California, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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      Hosted by Ben M.

      Joined in May 2020

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