Most wildfires are preventable. Learn to be fire safe
- Willits
Staff verified
Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.
Ben is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
Clothing optional
Welcomes Hipcampers who prefer a clothing optional experience.
Select a site
Filter by
Tent-only sites (dispersed)
1 site
Shimmerback Ranch Creekside Magic
100%
(59)Short walk to site
4WD required
Toilet
Potable water
Reviews
100% Recommend59 ratings ¡ 42 reviews
We had such a pleasant and relaxing time at Shimmerback Ranch! Ben was a kind and gracious host, and he led us and some other campers on a fascinating hike that included a tour of ruins on the land. The kitchen was neat and organized, and the shipping container pantry was secure and left us feeling confident that we wouldnât be attracting any critters. The creek and swimming hole made for an enjoyable mid-day break, and the hot tub was one of the most comfortable weâve experienced. We would love to come back again when the time is right.
Kate R.
2 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
¡ June 2026
Tent ¡ Group trip ¡
Shimmerback Ranch Creekside Magic
My friends and I had the best time camping at Shimmer Back Ranch. Our host Ben was lovely and very accommodating. The facilities were clean and we felt very safe the whole time. Itâs a lovely property and I recommend the guided tour for some extra adventure!
I
Irene L.
3 months on Hipcamp
Absolute unsuspecting gem hidden away in Mendo county. Theyâve cultivated a warm and inviting culture. The kitchen set up was colorful and fun - and it is a fully stocked/equipped kitchen. (Bring your own food/drink obvi and you have to pack out your own trash) The bathrooms are clean and the showers are hot! Totally loved hiking to and in the cave. The property is so beautiful and you can tell the owners care about it. Loved my stay and will definitely be returning!
Jessica T.
3 reviews
Recommends
¡ June 2026
Stop looking - Shimmerback is IT
Tent ¡ Group trip ¡
Shimmerback Ranch Creekside Magic
I rented out the entire camp for my birthday, and, wow, I couldnât have dreamed of a better setting to celebrate. We were a group of 14 in total - some campers, some not - and every single person there was shocked by the quality of the space and its amenities: a kitchen fully stocked with supplies, two stoves, an oven, running water, a small ice maker(!!!), multiple flush toilets (one even had a bidet!) and showers, a projector, disco lights, and a moon raft for stargazing. We also loved all of the playful, queer + sex-positive art, which immediately created the space for my group to feel comfortable and relaxed.
The variety of communal spaces was so fun and made it so we could all gather when we wanted to and take space when we needed it. We spent most of our time in the living room/kitchen, but were blown away by the hookah lounge and hot tub. And, of course, the swimming hole was a huge hit.
From the get go, Ben was so communicative and helpful in making arrangements for onsite accommodations for the non-campers in the group. The two tiny homes and glamping tent were PERFECT for my not-so-outdoorsy friends.
Though I selfishly hope no one else ever finds out about Shimmerback because I want to come back here all the time, I also cannot recommend it enough. Forget whatever other sites you were looking at - this is it.
Cara C.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
¡ September 2025
Very cute n comfy camping!
Tent ¡ Group trip ¡
Shimmerback Ranch Creekside Magic
We love Shimmerback Ranch so much that we went back second year in a row! It's a beautiful, serene property that's been well taken care of. There are so many cute areas to hang out in. We especially enjoyed the hot tub by the creek, several amazing areas for star gazing at night and the fully stocked kitchen. Ben is a wonderful host and very communicative, he was very kind to accommodate a larger group we had for Labor Day weekend. Thank you, Ben! We'll be back for sure :)
Masha P.
5 reviews
Beautiful, magical site. The kitchen was extremely well-equipped with tons of pots, pans, utensils, plates, cups, etc. and all kinds of tools and odds and ends that make you feel at home. There are multiple fridges and freezers and a well-stocked pantry of spices and dried goods as well. The wood-fired hot tub was super relaxing, and the flush toilet was a welcome addition as well. Ben was a fantastic host and was super responsive as well. The vibes were immaculate!
D
David G.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
¡ September 2025
Tent ¡ With kids ¡
Shimmerback Ranch Creekside Magic
Ben was so hospitable and the property and water features were lovely! We had a great time and will be back again. Thank you, Ben!
S
Sara D.
3 reviews
When I read the description of this site, it immediately called to me. All of the other reviews are preaching the truth. This place was so homey, wonderful, comforting, and you could feel how much love was put into it. The land is the destination, not a quick place to crash for 12 hours while you're visiting the area. I love that it was set up with everything that you'd need when camping. The kitchen had every appliance, dish, and utensil you could want, there was great seating in spots that needed it, there's shady spots everywhere for the 100 degree weather, there's speakers, water floaties, a stargazing bed, grapes growing on the hookah lounge - everything. The water was perfect too. Even in dry late August, the creek was flowing and the swimming hole was deep, cold, and clear.
Things to note:
-You'll have to pack out your trash (no dumpster).
-The dogs are a little terrifying at first but they're just warning everyone that a new person is here! They're sweethearts.
-The one bathroom is not very private - it's a wooden shack in the middle of a clearing near the hot tub, and two of the showers are connected to the outside of it (you can hear everything). Shy poopers beware.
-The hot showers aren't really hot - the solar one doesn't heat at night (lol); the gas one only has enough hot water for 2 minutes; and the last is lukewarm (and in the open)
Thankfully they're making a new private bathroom!
Everything else was perf. We all truly loved it and want to return often.
N
Nahkoura M.
2 reviews
We ended up being the only group there, and it was such a cool cozy place. There are fun art features around every corner and we had the most relaxing chill time hanging out on the property in the stream and hot tub. We thought we would go for a hike, but we loved the place so much we didn't leave all weekend!
L
Leah B.
1 year on Hipcamp
I had the best time with my partner at shimmerback! It was my second time booking and I will definitely be back for more. John showed us around and was super friendly and a great energy to be around. With the hot tub, the hookah lounge, and the moon raft, I couldnât have asked for a better weekend. All the campers there were also super friendly and fun to hang around. Benâs communication was prompt and thoughtful, explaining everything in writing before we got there. They installed a new bear proof pantry which was a huge plus. I hate letting the secret of a good camp spot out but shimmerback deserves a 5 star rating!
M
Matt S.
1 year on Hipcamp
The quote, 'This is the place where everything's better and everyone's safe,' perfectly captures how I feel about Shimmerback. My partner and I had an unforgettable time and are deeply grateful to Ben for sharing this magical place with us. Our hosts, Chelsea and Jon, made the experience truly special, guiding us on a hike through the creek and stargazing in the bed with heated blankets together. Nights spent in the forest, relaxing in the hot tub with new friends, cooking communal meals in the kitchen, and floating on the creek made this weekend so magical. Im already dreaming of coming back here and can't wait to! Thank you so much, Ben!
Samantha A.
2 reviews
Lovely quiet space next to a small creek, with a full outdoor kitchen, small hot tub, showers, etc. It allows a great balance between camping and retaining some creature comforts. Close to Wilits, about an hour from Ft. Bragg and the coast, we had a wonderfully relaxing three day stay. Ben and Chas are great, welcoming hosts.
C
Colin M.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
¡ September 2023
Ben has an absolutely fantastic setup; almost a glamping scenario depending on the upgrades you choose. We loved our morning soak in the hot tub followed by a cold plunge in the creek adjacent. We were even visited by a busy river otter during our hang in the river. The open-air kitchen is completely stockedâyou can leave all your cooking gear at home. The campsites all have a nice mix of sun/shade and have plenty of room for multiple tents. You get to know the other campers coming and going, and Ben cultivates a community vibe. The sound of the adjacent highway is somewhat audible most of the time, so if you want a remote/wild experience this may not be for you. We'll be back for sure!
P
Paul C.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
¡ August 2023
Tent ¡ Group trip ¡
Shimmerback Ranch Creekside Magic
We absolutely loved our stay here. Relaxed by the creek at the swimming hole for a long afternoon and explored around the area. Wonderfully maintained property with so many things to do!
V
Vennette V.
3 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
¡ July 2023
Tent ¡ Group trip ¡
Shimmerback Ranch Creekside Magic
My family & I love this place and are hoping to make a visit to SBR an annual occurrence! It's truly a one of a kind place filled with magic. â¨
Olivia B.
2 reviews
Recommends
¡ July 2023
awesome and so cool and good and aw
Tent ¡ Group trip ¡
Shimmerback Ranch Creekside Magic
this was so magical and amazing. will definitely be coming again soon
L
Lily F.
3 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
¡ July 2023
Great camping experience! The creek is beautiful and the swimming hole was very refreshing. Loved the wood-fired hot tub in the evenings, amazing for star-gazing. The kitchen is very well stocked and made preparing meals extremely easy. We were the only group there for most of the time which was awesome, the campsites aren't super private so I'm not sure how it would be with multiple groups there but there are a lot of areas to hang out.
Laeesha C.
4 reviews
Recommends
¡ July 2023
Great mellow stay! Folks were friendly And that land is beautiful.
A
Arianna V.
2 reviews
Recommends
¡ July 2023
Perfect spot! Has everything you could need and more. Fresh clear creek and the site has lots of love
J
Joaquin C.
3 years on Hipcamp
This is a incredible place. Hot tub outdoors under the stars. A creek to play on! They have a very comfy outdoor living room and great kitchen area with all u need. Ckthing optional was a great way to feel free in nature! Ben is amazing and so friendly and helpful! I really want to go again and stay longer!
H
Helayna T.
3 years on Hipcamp
We loved this spot. It's got everything you need and more. The land is beautiful and expansive. The kitchen is set up for success, the stage and hang out area are so cozy! We also loved the hot tub and river access + den. Oh and outdoor showers? Yes please! We will definitely be back, thanks for having us Ben!
Z
Zarrah B.
4 reviews
Recommends
¡ April 2023
Exceptional, Happy Camping
Tent ¡ Group trip ¡
Shimmerback Ranch Creekside Magic
Camp to camp shimmerback for my girlfriends birthday with a bunch of friends. This campsite is the perfect get away from the city. Itâs big enough to explore and go on various hikes, has a covered hangout area, amazing creek and hot tub which gets cooking! Lots of fun eclectic artwork and trinkets all around the property which makes this place amazing for a trip. Climate in this area is on point and was able to fully relax anywhere on the property. Added bonus, we brought our speaker system but forgot the power cord, owner Ben happened to have an extra laying around and saved the day! This place is really a gem
Noura L.
2 reviews
Recommends
¡ October 2022
Really unique property. We had a great time cooking meals in the outdoor kitchen, hanging out watching movies on the projector in the lounge area, and exploring nearby attractions. Ben was very friendly and responsive. Iâd love to come back here some day.
B
Brandon R.
5 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
¡ September 2022
16 ft campervan ¡
Shimmerback Ranch Creekside Magic
Wonderful place. We really enjoyed our fellow campers and the outdoor kitchen living room.
The bridge leading to the hot tub and shower was too precarious for us but we were ok with that.
L
Lisa C.
3 reviews
Recommends
¡ September 2022
Tent ¡ Group trip ¡
Shimmerback Ranch Creekside Magic
Such a beautiful place! Everything youâll need and more. Wish we could have stayed longer. Love the hangout area. Spent our time eating, drinking and laughing. Bridge is fun to walk across.
Alexandra J.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
¡ September 2022
10 ft car ¡
Shimmerback Ranch Creekside Magic
This place was beyond anything we were expecting! Ben has created such a magical spot with so many gems and just wonderful energy throughout the whole place and met some of the most lovely humans there. We are so grateful to have found this serene spot and will definitely be going again! Thank you Ben!
C
Chels N.
4 years on Hipcamp
Great location. Friendly host. Swimming hole! Lots of options to set up your own tent or use one provided by the host. Full service outdoor kitchen - it feels a little bit like a camp at burning man.
L
Lyle S.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
¡ August 2022
What a special place! We had such an incredible (but far too brief) stay at SBR & cannot wait to return! (So much so that we might come back next month already!) Truly, what a dream. So grateful to experience this land & the beautiful community â¨
Olivia B.
2 reviews
This place is a gem! My partner and I had an amazing weekend getaway at Shimmerback and canât wait to go back. Ben is a wonderful host and has created such a magical sanctuary. The hot tub, swinging bridge, swimming hole in the creek, fairy lights all overâŚI canât recommend it highly enough.
C
Carla L.
2 reviews
Recommends
¡ July 2022
An amazing community of wonderful old souls. We had an incredible time here, and will definitely be back!
Ben O.
2 reviews
Location
Willits, Mendocino, California, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
Hosted by Ben G.
Joined in September 2021Response rate: 100%Response time: Within an hour
Things to do nearby
Similar campgrounds nearby
Campers also viewed...
Hipcamp is created with â¤ď¸ and hope for our future.