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Fortress of Love Homestead

Hosted by Doug · Chelsea, Michigan

10 guests max

98%

Amazing views

Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.

Fortress of Love homestead, previously Long Haul Farm, is rebuilding to be a functioning homestead in Chelsea, MI dedicated to sustainably growing plants, family, community, and soil biology for generations, the long haul! --- 2026 update ---- We are no longer doing any flower growing like we did before, as life has taken us to work outside of our own space. However, we've shifted to more stewardship on our property and the adjacent preserve. We'd love to guide you on a hike and teach about the local ecology, flora, and fauna too! The goats and chickens continue to provide joyful entertainment as well. --- AN OFFERING --- Acknowledging that this land was unceded by the people who previously occupied it, we're offering that anyone with indigenous ancestry can stay for reduced rates, just message us and ask! -------- History -------- Growing up, I used to come here to visit my great-aunt & uncle's horse ranch. My great uncle grew up visiting his great uncle who was one of the first in our family on this land. They were animal and nature lovers, and in their retirement, sold 130 acres to The Nature Conservancy, all of which is now protected as a county nature preserve. Unfortunately, 11 years ago, my great-uncle and aunt had passed, and we had to sell the family land. Serendipitously, as we were looking for a farm homestead to move to, we reconnected with the owners of the land, and they were just deciding to sell it. My family was able to buy back the family land and continue the legacy. -------- Onwards ---- We hoping to develop a permaculture inspired homestead, planting an orchard and keep chickens and pigs. We love living here surrounded by extensive state and county parks and recreation land, while still being close enough to Chelsea and Ann Arbor for all that they provide. Our aim is to create a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable atmosphere for our visitors. We hope to provide a refuge in nature and perhaps even some education of flowers or wildlife. Join us in carrying on the legacy of family land stewardship and love for natural spaces! - Doug (he/him/his) & & Phoebe (5yr old - She/they TBD)2024 UPDATE: With our 3 year old and two jobs, we've put our flower farm on hold, and so we don't have many flowers growing this season, so we want to give an accurate expectation for our Flower Farm. We are also putting our farm breakfasts offering on hold given our limited capacity. There are plenty of great hikes and activities nearby still that we're happy to recommend. Thanks to all the campers from 2020 who voted us the 2nd best in Michigan to visit in 2021! Hope to see you back! -----New to HipCamp? Copy/Paste this link and get https://www.hipcamp.com/i/flowerfarm -------- About the Space -------- Our property is a cozy 4.5 acre flower farm atop a beautiful vista surrounded by hundres of acres of contiguous nature preserves, county parks, and state game area. We have 3 friendly pygmy goats and 15 roamin' chickens. Please let us know if you intend to bring dogs. -------- About the Campsite -------- This camp is out of sight of any houses or roads. While it doesn't have all the views of our HillTop site, it is much more secluded and shaded. It includes a firepit and close to the composting toilet and water. There’s ample space to park a vehicle near your spot, including for pop-up campers or RVs. We don't have shore power, but we do have an extension cord that will reach. Please indicate if you have a large or many vehicles. See our other listing for the Hilltop site. -------- Breakfast -------- We sometimes can offer our homecookin' breakfast of our own chicken eggs, locally made bread toast, local organic greens, and organic coffee/tea. Avocado, bananas or other fruit included depending what we have at the moment. We ask a sliding scale donation of $8-14 for the breakfast, and that you let us know ahead of time if you are interested. -------- Amenities -------- Water is available via a hydrant that pumps from well water, we like the taste. There is a rustic dry composting toilet for your solid wastes. We have electric in the barn if needed. We have internet in the house, but only available to campers by special request. -------- Social Atmosphere -------- We’ll often be out working in the flower farm, taking our dogs for walks, and may be hosting other campers, so expect to have some socializing around the farm. We love to hear your stories and share ours. Anyone looking to rent the whole space exclusively for more privacy, can do so for an extra charge at a first come first serve basis. Must be requested in advance! -------- Adventure Awaits -------- HIKERS, TRAIL RUNNERS, & NATURE ENTHUSIASTS: It's a short walk to amazing remote natural area for wildlife viewing, a quarter mile to the middle of 38 mile Pinckney-Waterloo trail system that connects the two huge recreation areas with abundant hiking and nature viewing. MOUNTAIN BICYCLISTS: We are 1 mile from the very popular mountain biking DTE Energy Foundation Trail. We are 6 miles north of downtown Chelsea, MI with the majority of the route including the B2B multi-use trail system. PADDLERS & HORSE ENTHUSIASTS: We sit smack-dab in the middle of both the Waterloo and Pinckney Recreation Areas, which offer some amazing spots to paddle, swim, and ride horses, among many other activities. MOTORCYCLISTS: We're along North Territorial Road, a popular scenic motorcycling route, and only 10 minutes from a golf course. Our neighbors are few and secluded. And we have a couple wonderfully friendly dogs. DISC GOLFERS: We are a ten minute drive to Hudson Mills Metropark, which boasts two amazing 24 hole courses. Additionally, we’re 25 minutes from Independence Lake County Park, the local favorite with 18 holes. Lastly, about 30 minute drive will get you to Bandemer, a chill course near the Huron River in Ann Arbor. -------- Words of Caution -------- POISONOUS PLANTS AND BUGS! We do have lots of poison ivy, stinging nettle, ticks, horse flies, and mosquitos. The hiking nearby isn’t always a mowed trail, so come prepared with long pants, tall socks and hiking boots if you want to explore the preserve. We’re glad to show you what to look for if you’re unfamiliar, they are all easy to avoid with the right precautions. Please use Hipcamp messages to contact us about camping, not facebook. To inquire about camping availability, make a request so we can review and approve.

Rig suitability

Vehicles under 40 feet allowed

Allowed rigs: class B RVs, campervans, cars, truck campers, and rooftop tents

Pull-in site

Accommodates slideouts

Surface type: Grass or field

Surface levelness: Flat

There is concrete in the barn, and it is level. Although I need advance notice if you want to park in the barn. Otherwise there is a large level grassy area.

No class A RVs, class C RVs, pop-up campers, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers

Electrical hookup available

We have electricity in the barn, but would need advance notice if you need this.

No water hookup

There are some groundwater hydrants with hoses. I can't guarantee water hookup/hose in winter, but can provide it from the house if needed.

No sewage hookup

No TV hookup

Generators not allowed

What to expect

RV/tent site

You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.

10 guests max

Campfires allowed

Firepit, communal, private. Each campsite will have a bonfire pit. On occasion we'll have bigger fires that everyone is welcome to join.

Toilet available

Flush toilet, composting toilet. An exterior composting toilet is available, and has a hydrant to wash hands nearby.

No pets

We used to allow pets. But with our dogs, we feel it is safer not to have pets and risk interactions. Contact us if you have questions.

Potable water available

Spigot, hose, pump or well, bottled water or jugs. The water is from a well and tastes good to us. We can also provide water from the house that has been through a reverse-osmosis filter system.

Picnic table present

No showers

Bathe in lake

Pack it out

We recommend you pack out whatever you bring. If needed we can provide a trash bag on request. All trash must be cleaned up when leaving camp site. We have a compost pile for food waste.

Cooking equipment absent

No wifi

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 2:00 PM

Early or late check-in may be available

Check out: Before 12:00 PM

On arrival: Head straight to site

Cancellation policy:

Minimum nights: 1 night

Accepts bookings: 6 months out

Park at listing

Wheelchair access

Max 2 vehicles

2WD accessible

During your trip

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

Select a site

RV/tent sites

1 site

Shady Corner Camp - Tents & Campers

97%

(117)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 10 · Vehicles under 40 ft

2024 UPDATE: With our 3 year old and two jobs, we've put our flower farm on hold, and so we don't have many flowers growing this season, so we want to give an accurate expectation for our Flower Farm. We are also putting our farm breakfasts offering on hold given our limited capacity. There are plenty of great hikes and activities nearby still that we're happy to recommend. Thanks to all the campers from 2020 who voted us the 2nd best in Michigan to visit in 2021! Hope to see you back! -----New to HipCamp? Copy/Paste this link and get https://www.hipcamp.com/i/flowerfarm -------- About the Space -------- Our property is a cozy 4.5 acre flower farm atop a beautiful vista surrounded by hundres of acres of contiguous nature preserves, county parks, and state game area. We have 3 friendly pygmy goats and 15 roamin' chickens. Please let us know if you intend to bring dogs. -------- About the Campsite -------- This camp is out of sight of any houses or roads. While it doesn't have all the views of our HillTop site, it is much more secluded and shaded. It includes a firepit and close to the composting toilet and water. There’s ample space to park a vehicle near your spot, including for pop-up campers or RVs. We don't have shore power, but we do have an extension cord that will reach. Please indicate if you have a large or many vehicles. See our other listing for the Hilltop site. -------- Breakfast -------- We sometimes can offer our homecookin' breakfast of our own chicken eggs, locally made bread toast, local organic greens, and organic coffee/tea. Avocado, bananas or other fruit included depending what we have at the moment. We ask a sliding scale donation of $8-14 for the breakfast, and that you let us know ahead of time if you are interested. -------- Amenities -------- Water is available via a hydrant that pumps from well water, we like the taste. There is a rustic dry composting toilet for your solid wastes. We have electric in the barn if needed. We have internet in the house, but only available to campers by special request. -------- Social Atmosphere -------- We’ll often be out working in the flower farm, taking our dogs for walks, and may be hosting other campers, so expect to have some socializing around the farm. We love to hear your stories and share ours. Anyone looking to rent the whole space exclusively for more privacy, can do so for an extra charge at a first come first serve basis. Must be requested in advance! -------- Adventure Awaits -------- HIKERS, TRAIL RUNNERS, & NATURE ENTHUSIASTS: It's a short walk to amazing remote natural area for wildlife viewing, a quarter mile to the middle of 38 mile Pinckney-Waterloo trail system that connects the two huge recreation areas with abundant hiking and nature viewing. MOUNTAIN BICYCLISTS: We are 1 mile from the very popular mountain biking DTE Energy Foundation Trail. We are 6 miles north of downtown Chelsea, MI with the majority of the route including the B2B multi-use trail system. PADDLERS & HORSE ENTHUSIASTS: We sit smack-dab in the middle of both the Waterloo and Pinckney Recreation Areas, which offer some amazing spots to paddle, swim, and ride horses, among many other activities. MOTORCYCLISTS: We're along North Territorial Road, a popular scenic motorcycling route, and only 10 minutes from a golf course. Our neighbors are few and secluded. And we have a couple wonderfully friendly dogs. DISC GOLFERS: We are a ten minute drive to Hudson Mills Metropark, which boasts two amazing 24 hole courses. Additionally, we’re 25 minutes from Independence Lake County Park, the local favorite with 18 holes. Lastly, about 30 minute drive will get you to Bandemer, a chill course near the Huron River in Ann Arbor. -------- Words of Caution -------- POISONOUS PLANTS AND BUGS! We do have lots of poison ivy, stinging nettle, ticks, horse flies, and mosquitos. The hiking nearby isn’t always a mowed trail, so come prepared with long pants, tall socks and hiking boots if you want to explore the preserve. We’re glad to show you what to look for if you’re unfamiliar, they are all easy to avoid with the right precautions. Please use Hipcamp messages to contact us about camping, not facebook. To inquire about camping availability, make a request so we can review and approve.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

Electrical hookup

No water hookup

Reviews

98% Recommend222 ratings · 182 reviews

Doug's campsite offers a peaceful and secluded escape, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat surrounded by nature. Campers consistently praise the friendly hosts and their thoughtful amenities, such as a fire pit and picnic table, which enhance the camping experience. The presence of friendly goats and chickens adds to the charm of the place, making it a memorable spot for families and animal lovers. However, some campers noted issues with the compost toilet and occasional bug concerns, which might require some attention.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· October 2025

Tent · Group trip

Doug was very welcoming and helpful. Beautiful plot of land with a private area for camp.

Recommends

· October 2025

Tent · Group trip

We loved our stay on Doug’s land!! Such a fun getaway, we had a blast! Very quirky place with amazing views and plenty of space:)

Recommends

· September 2025

Tent · With pets

Great place for camping with a family. Secluded area right next to a nice walking trail through county-kept grounds. The host was accommodating and very welcoming.

Recommends

· September 2025

Shady Tree Heaven

Tent

A nice secluded spot close to lots of natural trails and parks! Great supply of dry wood sawdust toilet, fire pit, metal chairs and a plastic picnic table are on site.

Recommends

· August 2025

Quiet and relaxing

Tent

My wife and 2 dogs stayed for 4 days and really enjoyed the peace and quiet of the farm land. It was great with easy access to state land for hiking and fishing. The campsite was very shaded and kept us cool with 90° temps. Doug was a very kind soft spoken person, making sure we had what we needed for our stay. We 10/10 recommend and will more than likely be back, thank you Doug for making your beautiful property accessible to us!

Recommends

· August 2025

Favorite spot so far!

Tent · With kids

We loved our stay at the flower farm. It was private, and we were the only campers so we had the place to ourselves. We got to love on adorable goats and watch the chickens roam- it was a great experience for all of us! The land is large enough that we were able to play hide and seek as a family of 8 for a good hour, with plenty of spots to hide. We did get a flat tire overnight, and the hosts were so kind as to let us use their pump to get rolling again. The land is beautiful and well cared for. We will definitely be back.

Recommends

· July 2025

Tent

Beautiful location, cozy campsite, clear directions.

Recommends

· July 2025

20 ft campervan

This is a super sweet spot, quiet and secluded. Doug was a super host, loves sharing about the area (we wish we had had the time to explore it more). Bike trail nearby, lots of lakes, and only about a half hour from Ann Arbor. We'd highly recommend this spot.

Recommends

· July 2025

Privacy and chickens!

Tent

Doug was a fantastic host and was incredibly accommodating. Meeting the goats and chickens was a ton of fun, you even get to hold one (if you’re lucky enough to catch one) but luckily, there are resident “chicken whisperers” on site. The campsite was private, with plenty of space to set up a tent, and stretch out and relax and enjoy nature. Be sure to follow the trail up the hill to check out the beautiful view of the hills nearby, and spend some time in one of the on-site hammocks!

Recommends

· June 2025

10 ft campervan

Great, quiet spot to camp! Doug was very responsive. I would highly recommend.

Recommends

· June 2025

Tent · With pets

Was exactly what we were looking for - a quiet, private site with easy access to beautiful trails. Hosts were great, directions were clear, and my kid loved feeding the goats and chickens. Already want to visit again.

Recommends

· May 2025

16 ft car

We loved camping here! The quiet, private spot was just perfect for a night under the stars after we enjoyed cooking over a fire and relaxing. We had everything we needed, including a spacious toilet area.

Recommends

· May 2025

Tent

We had a wonderful stay! The hosts were incredibly friendly and we enjoyed getting to do some hiking on the property. Would definitely recommend!

Recommends

· May 2025

Tent · With pets

Doug's property is fantastic--friendly goats, beautiful nature, and where you'll camp is set far back from the road so you wont hear anything. Doug is also super kind and accommodated us for a last minute getaway. 10/10 would stay again!!!

Recommends

· April 2025

Tent · With kids

We stayed at the hilltop hangout spot and it was absolutely fantastic! Easy to get there and Doug was great about getting us set up and showing us around the area. There were beautiful views from the firepit area and hilltop tent spot—looking out over the trees while cooking dinner was perfect. And my kiddo had a great time saying hello to the goats—a perfect first camping trip for her! We’re looking forward to coming back!

Recommends

· November 2024

Really peaceful place

16 ft car

We loved the seclusion - it's an isolated area even though it's very close to the house. Doug is really nice, and everything went really well. Highly recommend!

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent

Loved this campsite! Secluded and backs up to the state park with easy trail access.

Recommends

· October 2024

Perfect spot… with goats!

25 ft campervan · With pets

Our family of five loved our two nights in the shady grove spot. We caught the sunrise on the ridge, hiked the trails, cooked over the fire, and visited the goats every chance we could. It was quiet, scenic, and private. A perfect fall getaway.

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent

First I would like to thank Doug and his wife for accommodating us in the middle of a work week. The site was clean and easy to locate. The nearby lake was a great day trip.

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent

I loved the privacy and shaded area. It made it much more cool in the shade if there hadn't been any. They have extras you can add on for your stay, I did not utilize this trip, but will plan on that next trip. Visit the town for some cute stores, and one of the best places for donuts (Chelsea Bakery). We plan on coming back for sure, one of the best places to camp at! P.s if you are uncomfortable using a compost toilet, there is a trail that has a sheltered bathroom. Maybe 5 minutes, if that from the campsite.

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent

The trails on this land are breathtakingly beautiful! The toilet however, is not for the faint of heart. The campsite is pretty good, but a little muddy so bring good shoes. I would come here again for the peace it gave me.

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent

Shady Grove was exactly what I needed for peaceful rest and connecting to nature. Site is very private and adjacent to expansive trails for exploring nature at its finest. Doug, campsite host provided campfire wood and thoroughly explained the site.

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent

Tent camping was awesome. Beautifully set up with picnic table, shade, fire pit and a sick trail Will definitely come back!!

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent

We had a great stay tent camping on Doug's land. It was a cozy place to stay and a beautiful place to explore.

Recommends

· June 2024

Tent

The view on the hilltop was awesome. The host was friendly and it was so peaceful.

Recommends

· May 2024

Tent · With kids

This place is absolutely wonderful. We cannot recommend the hilltop site more. They have hammocks, hula hoops (big hit with the kids), a swing porch, and a fire pit complete with wood. The flowers they do have are absolutely gorgeous. It is very secluded feeling and quiet. You get an amazing view of the stars as well since there isn’t much light pollution. You definitely need to visit.

Recommends

· April 2024

Always a great stay.

16 ft car

This is my second time at this site. As before, there was the perfect amount of interaction to get set up and suggestions for activities.I like that it is just a short drive to and from my home for those quick little weekend or even 1 night stays. I'll definitely be back!

Recommends

· November 2023

Simple yet well done camp site

Tent

Easy access to walking trails and a nice vantage point for sunrise/sunsets as well as stargazing. Goats were fun to visit too.

Recommends

· October 2023

Camp’n in fall weather

Tent

Camp at Kat’s land was great! The view was really beautiful and the mile loop was fun to walk! It did rain on our trip a bit which was out of everyone’s control, but we did see a double rainbow which was cool! Kat was super friendly she told us what hikes were in the area and she recommended a great coffee place in Chelsea. Over all I would highly recommend this Hipcamp site!

Recommends

· October 2023

Very Pleasant experience

Tent

Our family of 3 stayed at the hiltop campsite at Long haul flower farm. And We were gladly surprised. It was a beautiful view with a very rustic feel. The only significant thing I wouldn't recommend is getting any of the "add ons" the website offers at checkout. We payed for fresh coffee, farm eggs, meeting the animals and none of those things happened. I did see other comments with the same experience so I personally wouldn't recommend getting that. Other then that.. we had a great time, enjoyed nature and looked at the stars. We will plan to visit again for sure.

Location

Chelsea, Washtenaw County, Michigan, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking

Fortress of Love Homestead

Things to know

Select a site

RV/tent sites

Shady Corner Camp - Tents & Campers

Reviews

Location

Hosted by Doug R.

Things to do nearby

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