66 acres hosted by John J.
2 lodging sites
Off-leash friendly
Pets can be off-leash at this Hipcamp.
Amazing views
Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
Private sites
97% of recent Hipcampers say the sites felt private.
Near Shenandoah National Park
Within a 60-minute drive from the Swift Run Gap Entrance Station.
With views over the ocean of trees and town below, our two cabins offer a terrific place to enjoy the breathtaking vistas, constant breezes, and privacy from this historic property. Bring your binoculars and count how many water towers you can see during the day and in the evening, watch the stars. and look for the Milky Way from your own private deck. Or take a short walk to the original estate home site where you can enjoy both the eastern and western views from the same spot. The sunsets are magnificent.
Perched on a ridge under mature cedars, our cabins sit on the edge of the Southwest Mountains, which is the first mountain range west of the Atlantic. The views are big and far. And private. Some say you can even see Portugal!
Or look a little closer to see local wildlife, including eagles, hawks, turkey, fox, rabbit, deer, fireflies and more.
If you are interested in history, ask John. He will tell you about the Civil War battle fought here and the tobacco baron who once owned the estate.
Our cabins are off grid — no electric and no plumbing — but we make it quite comfortable and easy to unplug and enjoy the outside without the hassle. And while there is no "running" water, we bring you water. And while there is no electric, we make up for it with solar and battery lights and fans. We also offer a propane heater to keep you toasty in cooler weather.
The cabins are about 75 yards from each other and separated by evergreen trees, bushes, and elevation change. Far enough for privacy, but close enough if a a single small group that wants to enjoy both cabins at once.
Each cabin is equipped with a comfy, luxury queen-sized bed and box spring with fresh linens and plenty of pillows, a chair, and tables. The cabins are approximately 12x14 of interior living space plus a semi covered 16’ x 8’ deck with chairs and table. The upper cabin is slightly smaller interior than the lower cabin.
Each cabin gets a propane heater which keeps you toasty even on the coldest winter nights and a strong battery powered fan for warmer months with plenty of industrial batteries. Each also enjoys plenty of solar powered torch lamps which offer a terrific ambiance. We do recommend you bring flashlights and or headlamps. If you forget, no worries, we got you covered.
Each enjoys two 5-gallon containers of fresh spring water. One for drinking and one for keeping your hands clean. There is a solar shower, too in your Loo House (see below).
Each cabin has its own fire pit and grill with everything you need to make a fire, including split wood, kindling, newspaper and lighter. Firewood is $7.50 per crate. And if you need help starting your fire, no worries, John will help you.
Each cabin has their own private 3-sided and roofed Loo House, where you do your business in a bed-side commode with a large biodegradable bag inside with special sand that solidifies your waste. You dispose of the bag at a nearby trash box, just like a diaper. Extra bags are available.
The "Jefferson Sea" is a description many attribute to the nations 4th President, Thomas Jefferson, who enjoyed the ocean-like view of fields and
trees below his home at Monticello, a world heritage site that shares a similar view from the very same Southwest Mountains.
We enjoy giant Ginkgo trees, boxwood gardens, colossal Tulip Poplars, and Osage Orange trees, and,wild organic raspberries .
We support BIPOC and all are welcome to enjoy our property :)
There is a 2-night minimum on weekends.
Just down the hill is the historic town of Gordonsville with perhaps the best BBQ on the east coast, wine tasting room, two breweries, several cafes and restaurants, grocery store and liquor store. Within minutes are Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, James Madison’s Montpelier and some of the nation’s finest vineyards, including Barboursville Vineyard and many others.
The Blue Ridge Mountains, Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park, the University of Virginia and downtown Charlottesville are within 30 minutes.
It’s just an hour to Richmond or Harrisonburg and less than two to Washington, DC, or 3 to
We are very COVID-conscious!
We comply with all COVID cleaning precautions which includes cleaning hard surfaces and fresh linens
PETS
We love dogs! Friendly and well-behaved dogs are welcome but we have pet rules out of necessity.
Prior to making your reservation, please email us and tell us about your dog, describing their breed, size, temperament, owners ability to control dog, confirm that dog will be leashed and under your control at all times and that all vaccinations and flea/tick meds are up to date.
There is a $25 fee per dog with a maximum of 2 dogs.
Please see separate Pet Policy for details.
EXTRAS
$20 weekend rental Kitchen Package includes Coleman 2-burner stove with gas; spatula, fork, tongs; tea kettle and French Press to make hot water and coffee; small & large pots & frying pan; cups, bowls, plates, silverware; sharp knife & mini-cheese grater; large bowl; wine/bottle opener; dish soap & sponge; & smattering of other items.
Also available are additional are:
crates of firewood for $7.50 per
a large cooler
fresh flowers in season
Any of these can be purchased in advance or paid on site via cash or Venmo.