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Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

100%
·
190 reviews
 · Etlan, Madison, Virginia
23 acres hosted by Judson B.
4 lodging sites
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Near Shenandoah National Park
Within a 30-minute drive from the Byrd Visitor Center.
Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Staff verified
Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.
Judson is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
Welcome to the Big Dipper Ranch, where glamping in style and stargazing come easy! My wife and I visited this property 19 years ago and we took one look at the Sugar Maple tree in full bloom and we knew this was it. Now we want to share this gem with you! We love to greet our camper guests on arrival, and then we always respect privacy during the trip so you can recharge and enjoy the land. Come stay and relax in one of our four luxurious tents. Our property, with sweeping mountain views, is situated at the foot of the Shenandoah's, Old Rag is just a 15 minute drive, making it the perfect location for tons of outdoor exploration and enjoyment! We are close to countless hiking trails, canoeing spots, apple picking orchards, and wineries. You can also try your hand at fly fishing, or take a dip into the cool, spring-fed pond on a warm day! We are just a few miles from Etlan, VA if you want to head into town or need some necessities. Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to your stay!
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The Virginia Glamping Tent, #1

100% (82)
Safari tent · Sleeps 4
Welcome to the Big Dipper Ranch, where glamping in style comes easy! Our canvas tent #1 has a cool, cozy interior feel, and is tucked away into our beautiful 23 acres of land! This charming spot is perfect for a getaway near Shenandoah National Park. All are welcome - bring the family or make it an adult trip! About the Property: Our property, with sweeping mountain views, is situated at the foot of the Shenandoah's (just a 10 minute drive), making it the perfect location for tons of outdoor exploration and enjoyment! We are close to countless hiking trails, canoeing spots, apple picking orchards, and wineries. You can also try your hand at fly fishing, or take a dip into the cool, spring-fed pond on a warm day! We are just a few miles from Etlan, VA if you want to head into town or need some necessities.  My wife and I visited this property 13 years ago, and we took one look at the Sugar Maple tree in full bloom and we knew this was it. Now we want to share this gem with you! We love to greet our camper guests on arrival, and then we always respect privacy during the trip so you can recharge and enjoy the land.  About the Listing: Spend the night in one of our carpeted glamping canvas tents (there are four total, this listing is #1), and wake up close to everything that the Shenandoah Mountains have to offer. The canvas tent sits atop a wooden platform, and is furnished with a comfy bed for two and a night stand. There are picnic tables where you can enjoy a bite to eat or some morning coffee with a view! We have a composting toilet available to our guests, as well as fresh well/pump water. There is a communal fire pit on site for you to cozy up by and toast marshmallows if you like. Please note that there is no designated kitchen area or cooking supplies, so please bring your own camping stove and supplies if you'd like to cook.  We hope you'll enjoy the stunning mountain views, the wildlife, and seclusion as much as we do! Critters big and small, we have them all!  Please know we are in a remote area and wild animals and insects are part of nature and come with the camping experience!Additional Details to Note: - Check-in time is after 2pm, and check-out time is before 11am. - Things to bring: cooking supplies and camping stove if you'd like to cook - We do have wifi and some carriers have limited cell reception on our property, so please keep this in mind when planning the logistics of your travels and your stay. Great opportunity to unplug if you'd like! - You are welcome to bring your pets off leash, but please keep pets off the bed. Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to your stay!
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
Picnic table
from
$113
/ night
for NaN guests
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  • Picture of the site
Instant book

The Powhatan Glamping Site, Tent #3

100% (76)
Safari tent · Sleeps 4
Welcome to the Big Dipper Ranch, where glamping in style comes easy! Our canvas tent #3 has a traditional mountain flair, and is tucked away into our beautiful 23 acres of land! This charming spot is perfect for a getaway near Shenandoah National Park. All are welcome - bring the family or make it an adult trip! About the Property: Spring fed pond perfect for relaxing by and in! Fish are plentiful too. Our property, with sweeping mountain views, is situated at the foot of the Shenandoah's (just a 10 minute drive), making it the perfect location for tons of outdoor exploration and enjoyment! We are close to countless hiking trails, canoeing spots, apple picking orchards, and wineries. You can also try your hand at fly fishing, or take a dip into the cool, spring-fed pond on a warm day! We are just a few miles from Etlan, VA if you want to head into town or need some necessities.  My wife and I visited this property 13 years ago, and we took one look at the Sugar Maple tree in full bloom and we knew this was it. Now we want to share this gem with you! We love to greet our camper guests on arrival, and then we always respect privacy during the trip so you can recharge and enjoy the land.  About the Listing: Spend the night in one of our glamping canvas tents (there are four total, this listing is #3), and wake up close to everything that the Shenandoah Mountains have to offer. The canvas tent sits atop a wooden platform, and is furnished with a comfy queen bed, a night stand, and a small table where you can enjoy a bite to eat or some morning coffee! We have a composting toilet available to our guests, as well as fresh well/pump water. There is a communal fire pit on site for you to cozy up by and toast marshmallows if you like. Please note that there is no designated kitchen area or cooking supplies, so please bring your own camping stove and supplies if you'd like to cook.  We hope you'll enjoy the stunning mountain views, the wildlife, and seclusion as much as we do! Critters big and small, we have them all!  Please know we are in a remote area and wild animals and insects are part of nature and come with the camping experience!Additional Details to Note: - Check-in time is after 2pm, and check-out time is before 11am. - Things to bring: cooking supplies and camping stove if you'd like to cook - We do have wifi and some carriers have limited cell reception on our property, so please keep this in mind when planning the logistics of your travels and your stay. Great opportunity to unplug if you'd like! - You are welcome to bring your pets off leash, but please keep pets off the bed. Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to your stay!
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
Picnic table
from
$113
/ night
for NaN guests
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
Instant book

Glamping Mid Century style, Tent #2

100% (35)
Safari tent · Sleeps 4
Welcome to the Big Dipper Ranch, where glamping in style comes easy! Our canvas tent #2 has a mid-century modern flair, and is tucked away into our beautiful 23 acres of land! This charming spot is perfect for a getaway near Shenandoah National Park. All are welcome - bring the family or make it an adult trip! About the Property: Sitting area near spring fed pond. Great fishing too. Each tent has its own private bathroom tent. Our property, with sweeping mountain views, is situated at the foot of the Shenandoah's (just a 10 minute drive), making it the perfect location for tons of outdoor exploration and enjoyment! We are close to countless hiking trails, canoeing spots, apple picking orchards, and wineries. You can also try your hand at fly fishing, or take a dip into the cool, spring-fed pond on a warm day! We are just a few miles from Etlan, VA if you want to head into town or need some necessities.  My wife and I visited this property 13 years ago, and we took one look at the Sugar Maple tree in full bloom and we knew this was it. Now we want to share this gem with you! We love to greet our camper guests on arrival, and then we always respect privacy during the trip so you can recharge and enjoy the land.  About the Listing: Spend the night in one of our glamping canvas tents (there are four total, this listing is #2), and wake up close to everything that the Shenandoah Mountains have to offer. The canvas tent sits atop a wooden platform, and is furnished with a comfy bed for two, a night stand, and a small table where you can enjoy a bite to eat or some morning coffee! We have a composting toilet available to our guests, as well as fresh well/pump water. There is a communal fire pit on site for you to cozy up by and toast marshmallows if you like. Please note that there is no designated kitchen area or cooking supplies, so please bring your own camping stove and supplies if you'd like to cook.  We hope you'll enjoy the stunning mountain views, the wildlife, and seclusion as much as we do! Critters big and small, we have them all!  Please know we are in a remote area and wild animals and insects are part of nature and come with the camping experience!Additional Details to Note: - Check-in time is after 2pm, and check-out time is before 11am. - Things to bring: cooking supplies and camping stove if you'd like to cook - We do have wifi and some carriers have limited cell reception on our property, so please keep this in mind when planning the logistics of your travels and your stay. Great opportunity to unplug if you'd like! - You are welcome to bring your pets off leash, but please keep pets off the bed. Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to your stay!
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
Picnic table
from
$113
/ night
for NaN guests
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
Instant book

White Oak Safari Tent, #4

98% (32)
Canvas tent · Sleeps 4
Welcome to the Big Dipper Ranch, where glamping in style and stargazing come easy! Our canvas tent #4 has a warm and inviting feel, and is tucked away into our beautiful 23 acres of land! This charming spot is perfect for a getaway near Shenandoah National Park. All are welcome - bring the family or make it an adult trip! About the Property: Our property, with sweeping mountain views, is situated at the foot of the Shenandoah's (just a 10 minute drive), making it the perfect location for tons of outdoor exploration and enjoyment! We are close to countless hiking trails, canoeing spots, apple picking orchards, and wineries. You can also try your hand at fly fishing, or take a dip into the cool, spring-fed pond on a warm day! We are just a few miles from Etlan, VA if you want to head into town or need some necessities.  My wife and I visited this property 13 years ago, and we took one look at the Sugar Maple tree in full bloom and we knew this was it. Now we want to share this gem with you! We love to greet our camper guests on arrival, and then we always respect privacy during the trip so you can recharge and enjoy the land.  Critters big and small, we have them all!  Please know we are in a remote area and wild animals and insects are part of nature and come with the camping experience!About the Listing: Spend the night in one of our glamping canvas tents (there are four total, this listing is #4), and wake up close to everything that the Shenandoah Mountains have to offer. The canvas tent sits atop a wooden platform, and is furnished with a comfy bed for two and a night stand. There are picnic tables where you can have a bite to eat, and Adirondack chairs on the front porch of the glamping tent to enjoy some morning coffee with a view! We have a composting toilet available to our guests, as well as fresh well/pump water. There is a communal fire pit on site for you to cozy up by and toast marshmallows if you like. Please note that there is no designated kitchen area or cooking supplies, so please bring your own camping stove and supplies if you'd like to cook.  We hope you'll enjoy the stunning mountain views, the wildlife, and seclusion as much as we do! Additional Details to Note: - Check-in time is after 2pm, and check-out time is before 11am. - Things to bring: cooking supplies and camping stove if you'd like to cook - We do have wifi and some carriers have limited cell reception on our property, so please keep this in mind when planning the logistics of your travels and your stay. Great opportunity to unplug if you'd like! - You are welcome to bring your pets off leash, but please keep pets off the bed. Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to your stay! Critters big and small, we have them all!  Please know we are in a remote area and wild animals and insects are part of nature and come with the camping experience!
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
Picnic table
from
$113
/ night
for NaN guests

Reviews

100% Recommend227 ratings · 190 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
With pets ·
The Powhatan Glamping Site, Tent #3
Perfect glamp spot! The views were great, bed was super comfortable, loved the proximity to a winery, and my dog had the best time swimming in the pond. Can't wait to come back!
P
Perri H.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Comfy stay
With kids ·
Glamping Mid Century style, Tent #2
A wonderful stay, in the woods and close to hikes but also a super comfy bed, we will be back!
Avatar
Patricia K.
4 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Deep Breath
White Oak Safari Tent, #4
Just can't thank Jud and Lisa enough for sharing their property with me! If you really need to detach and breathe, this is the spot! Tents are super cute and cozy! First time using a compost potty and I loved it! Will be getting one for my campervan. Highly reccomend! Bring extra treats for their awesome rescue dogs! ;) MVTO
M
Misty H.
1 month on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
10/10 recommend!
The Powhatan Glamping Site, Tent #3
This was the perfect spot. Very generous host. The spot is special and you won’t find anything else like it!
L
Leah B.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Best glamping yet!
The Powhatan Glamping Site, Tent #3
The Big Dipper Ranch was amazing! I’m sad we only spent one night there. I’d love to come back! Jud greeted us and gave us some insight on things to do and see. We were able to get a sunset hike in and check out the winery down the road. The tent set up was cozy and comfortable. Thanks for the wonderful memories!
A
Amanda F.
3 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
The Perfect Weekend Getaway ❣️❣️❣️
White Oak Safari Tent, #4
My husband and I needed a last minute getaway to connect with nature. We live in Frederick and wanted a place 2 hours or less away. It was our lucky day when we found The Big Dipper in Etlan, Virginia and even luckier to meet our great host Judd and his lovely wife. Our first ever attempt at Glamping and it was perfect. The bedding was so soft and comfortable and the details throughout our Tent made you feel so welcomed. The Compost Toilet and Sink were so clean and efficient. So peaceful as there are only 4 Tents so you have a lot of privacy. It actually rained heavily for 90% of the trip and we were still able to return home refreshed. We will definitely be back with friends as I couldn't stop talking about our relaxing 24 hour getaway. Judd also recommended a place for Brunch called New Iberia and it did not disappoint!!! Food, atmosphere, super friendly staff all with New Orleans flair - and incredible Mimosa Specials. Don't let this hidden gem escape you - find your way to The Big Dipper and enjoy nature and camping in a fun new way.
L
Linda R.
1 month on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2025
Highly Recommend Big Dipper Ranch
With kids ·
Glamping Mid Century style, Tent #2
My daughters and I loved Big Dipper Ranch, will definitely be coming back for another visit! Tent and accommodations were very well maintained, exactly as advertised. We loved kayaking at the pond! Jud is a wonderful host, very accommodating and responsive. He clearly takes great pride in sharing his beautiful property with his guests.
B
Brendan S.
2 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2025
Great time!
With kids ·
White Oak Safari Tent, #4
We had a great time! We especially loved kayaking and fishing on the pond!
S
Sarah C.
2 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2025
Amazing Spot to Stay!!
The Virginia Glamping Tent, #1
Big Dipper Ranch is nothing short of extraordinary. The tent was cozy and perfect for us. All of the outdoor amenities are amazing. The compost toilet was super clean. The stargazing was incredible. Jud was so friendly and helpful with anything we needed. Will absolutely be back one day!!
Avatar
Holly T.
6 reviews
Recommends
· April 2025
With kids ·
The Powhatan Glamping Site, Tent #3
What a heavenly glampsite! Joined by our good friend and her daughter, we had two 3-year-olds in tow and our trusty dog. Everyone had a blast! Jud is an exceptional host- greeted us upon arrival, gave us the tour, and was super communicative, personable, and accommodating. The property is stunning, especially at this time of year with all the dogwoods and red buds in bloom. We had a sunny, hot day, so the pond was the highlight! We used the kayaks, my husband fished and caught several bass, my little one bravely jumped in the water, and our dog was in heaven swimming for hours! The water was icy cold, but that didn’t stop our water babies. The tents are so comfortable and the charcoal grill and solo stoves at each site make campsite cooking a breeze. The compostable toilets per site offer convenience, comfort, and privacy. We will definitely return! We got rained out for s’mores making, so we need to come back on a dry night to check all our camping must-dos off our list. Thanks Jud, we had such a special visit!
H
Hannah C.
2 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2024
Our dog's Gotcha Day!
With pets ·
Glamping Mid Century style, Tent #2
We decided to spend our dog's Gotcha Day at Big Dipper Ranch and we loved it so much! Jud made sure to greet us with a warm welcome during a cold weekend. Our dog enjoyed the open fields and being able to play fetch off leash in large distance. We were amazed with the number of shooting stars we saw. We are definitely considering coming back next year, maybe on a warmer weekend.
Avatar
Angela I.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2024
With pets ·
The Powhatan Glamping Site, Tent #3
Judd was a fantastic host! We had everything we needed. The bed was super comfortable. The stars were beautiful! We can’t wait to come back!
K
Kathleen S.
8 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2024
The Powhatan Glamping Site, Tent #3
Our night of glamping was amazing!!! The vibes were seriously fantastic - the tent had string lights insight and out, and the site came with a lovely firepit and grill. Jud was super friendly and gave us a space heater for the cold night too! Excited to come back!
Avatar
Rachel L.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2024
Glamping Mid Century style, Tent #2
We had a wonderful time staying at Big Dipper Ranch! Jud was an amazing host and ensured we had everything we needed. The tent was very cute and the views on the ranch were beautiful. We can’t wait to come back!
J
Juliana O.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2024
The Powhatan Glamping Site, Tent #3
We loved staying on Jud's property! The host was extremely welcoming and made checkin smooth. The cabin was cozy. The property was beautiful and had everything we needed. It was the perfect space to spend with friends and family!
Avatar
Jilli D.
4 reviews
Recommends
· October 2024
The Virginia Glamping Tent, #1
Adorable, cozy little place with some thoughtful touches. I live Jud’s little slice of peaceful paradise and would absolutely come back.
H
Hilary B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2024
White Oak Safari Tent, #4
The view was beautiful. The pond was great. Judson was an awesome host!
B
Brian S.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2024
Big dippa ranch :)
White Oak Safari Tent, #4
Had a great time at the Big Dipper ranch, definitely will be coming Back next time with a bigger group when the weather starts clearing up Very good hosts, very kind and informative. Thank you guys my girlfriend and I really appreciated you having us.
J
Joe I.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2024
The Virginia Glamping Tent, #1
We had a wonderful time at The Bigger Dipper Ranch. The tent was spacious and comfortable. There were lots of recommendations for nearby activities. It was so peaceful and relaxing and we intend to come back soon.
Avatar
Michelle D.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2024
The Powhatan Glamping Site, Tent #3
The perfect campsite I could ask for! Judson was an amazing host! He was super friendly and was quick to answer any questions. He had awesome recommendations and even took the time out of his day to help us with worms to fish. His campsite will be a place we decided to make a yearly trip to.
S
Shaandiin N.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2024
The Virginia Glamping Tent, #1
Such a great place to just get away. Jud was very responsive and hospitable. The night sky is so beautiful here. Thank you!
G
Gina B.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2024
With kids ·
Glamping Mid Century style, Tent #2
Beautiful location! Fire pit was great and the tent set up was really nice. Host met us and showed us around. There were some other campers there and they played their music pretty loud till 10.
C
Christopher T.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2024
With pets ·
White Oak Safari Tent, #4
My wife and I loved staying at Judson's camp for a night with our dog! The area is really clean and has four tents well separated from each other. Getting to the spot doesn't require a 4-wheel drive and the campsite is fairly close to nearby convenience stores. Being in the dark sky belt is a welcome surprise and allows stargazing from the comfort of a bonfire! 100% will visit again for longer!
P
Parth D.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2024
With pets ·
Glamping Mid Century style, Tent #2
The experience was really great and we had a lot of fun cooking by the campfire and making smores as well as exploring the city of madison and going sightseeing in shenandoah National Park. The tent was really nice and comfy, and Jud was an amazing host!
D
Darren A.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2024
White Oak Safari Tent, #4
Beautiful area and hospitable host, great for stargazing by the campfire!
S
Steven P.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2024
With pets ·
Glamping Mid Century style, Tent #2
This was a good site, as the skies were dark allowing for incredible star gazing, and the tents are well spaced such that you definitely ave your own experience, while if you have a group occupying multiple tents they're close enough such that you are all together. It's a well thought out property and a host who genuinely wants you to have a great experience, whether finding an outdoor activity, finding a winery or place to eat, or simply sharing how this property and place came to be.
J
John A.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2024
Glamping Mid Century style, Tent #2
Great host, great location, great glamping! Definitely recommend. We enjoyed the pond, walking with our pup around the forest trail, and star gazing. Also had a great meal and caught some local music at the nearby winery.
B
Bridget M.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2024
Highly recommend! Great Glamping!
The Virginia Glamping Tent, #1
The space is incredible at Big Dipper Ranch! Jud was an excellent host, always able to answer all our questions and talk shop about starting a business like this! We stayed in tent #1, which is closest to the pond, has the most “private” picnic site, and is furthest from Jud’s house and the cooling station for a nice rinse. Each site was thoughtfully planned, with incredible twinkle lights, lanterns, fans, and extra blankets. I can imagine having an incredible family reunion on the grounds, or inviting all your friends to rent out the 4 cabins and have a relaxing camping weekend. The site is close to old rag mountain & white oak canyon hikes via a 20 minute drive. Whereas the hikes via the main entrance of Shenandoah will take you about an hour to get to via a beautiful scenic drive. We saw why so many people are return guests! We’ll need to come back in hopes of clear nights to actually see the Big Dipper & Milky Way. Despite the rain, we had a fabulous time and were mesmerized watching the rain and lightning from the comfort of the covered porch!
A
Ariella A.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2024
True Glamping Experience
With kids ·
White Oak Safari Tent, #4
Far exceeded expectations. Meticulously maintained and great host! The private restrooms were a great touch
N
N C.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2024
With pets ·
White Oak Safari Tent, #4
Tents were well organized and clean. Host was clearly interested in making sure everyone had a great experience.
S
Steven W.
1 year on Hipcamp

Location

Etlan, Madison, Virginia, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Judson B.

Joined in May 2020

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