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Cricket Ranch

Hosted by Jay · Cascade, Wisconsin
5 sites · Tent · 53 acres
99%
·
203 reviews
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Best Hipcamps in Wisconsin
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2025.
Best in Wisconsin: 3rd place
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.
Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Jay is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
We are honored to again be named one of the Best Hipcamps in Wisconsin for 2024. Thank you to our guests for your wonderful reviews and helpful suggestions! And a special thank you to one of our guests, Brandon "Da Garbage Disposal" Clark, for featuring Cricket Ranch in his YouTube series "Outdoors Unsupervised: Survival Season 6". Learn more about this land: Cricket Ranch is a crazy combo of Nature's past, present, and future. The property was a farm with 75% of it corn fields until 30 years ago. It has been virtually untouched since then and in just a few decades it has reinvented itself as a forest. Chambers Creek runs thru the west side of the property. As a headwater of the Milwaukee River, it is part of the Great Lakes Basin and a source for Lake Michigan. Wisconsin has identified Chambers Creek as an Exceptional Resource Water (ERWs), Less than 10% of Wisconsin waterways carry this designation. What we do (or don't do) now affects the Great Lakes later. And you'll find fossils in the rock walls of some of the earliest examples of complex life on Earth (from 460 mya, Ordovician, Cambrian). No digging required. Seriously. How they got there is a very long story in the making and involves ancient inland seas, plate tectonics, glaciers, German immigrants, and 19th-20th century farming. Off the Beaten Path @ Cricket Ranch provides a true back to nature environment for campers, sometimes called "backcountry camping". Located on 50 acres of private forest, field, and valley, our campsites are very secluded and separated by acres of woodland. Each layout is unique, embracing what nature has provided. Backpacking (or wagoning) to your camp from the parking area is necessary as the 5' wide paths do not accommodate cars/trucks. Hiking distance from parking area: (1) Camp Cricket is 600 Ft. (2) Haen Hollow is 250 ft. (3) Rocky Top is 700 ft. (4) Grapeline is 1000 ft.  Feel fee to explore the land! We are located near the Niagara Escarpment so, as previously mentioned, you might even find a 460 million year old fossil on one of the field rock walls. Keep it! So we can keep a count of how many are found, and out of an overabundance of curiosity, please let us know and send some pics of your find.   Chambers Creek provides a spot to cool your feet, stone step, or just listen to the relaxing sound of a babbling brook. The creek is overgrown with brush so access is limited but we do have a trail that follows the creek for about 300 yds. We intend to clear some more of the underbrush in the near future to allow for better enjoyment and management of this invaluable natural resource. Near by: Kettle Moraine National Forest is a 10 minute drive, boasting great hiking and the can't-miss-it view from atop Parnell Tower. Lake Ellen has a nice no-fee public boat landing just 2 miles away. The lake has clear water and is stocked periodically with Pike and Walleye. It is surprising how un-busy this lake is so bring your boat, kayak, paddle board, and/or assorted flotation devices and check it out. Our parking area can accommodate boat trailers during your stay.

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Tent-only sites

5 sites
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Grapeline

99%
(105)
Tent site · Sleeps 14
Grapeline is a 2-for-1 site that combines the coziness of "Lil' Grapeline" with the open sky of "Big Grapeline". The large trees (Elm, Hickory, Oak, Maple) growing on the rock wall by Lil' Grapeline provide shade, a break from wind and rain, and are a great base for hammocks. An antient Wild Grape vine is interwoven with that line of mature trees, inspiring the site's name. Big Grapeline provides more space for bigger setups, lots of sky, and a great sunset view. Lil' and Big are right next to each other and are connected by a short path through the trees. Grapeline has 2 firepits, a picnic table, cooking grate, garbage can and recycle bin.
Moderate walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
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Rocky Top

99%
(67)
Tent site · Sleeps 14
**FEATURED in "Outdoors Unsupervised: Survival Season 6" on YouTube** Rocky Top isn't actually rocky as the name implies. It's named for the rock wall that runs next to it and it is on the highest point of elevation at Cricket Ranch. Rocky Top is a large site with a huge view of the sky for star-gazing and the sunsets are fantastic! There is very little shade and many of our guests recommend using a pop-up canopy during the day. There are two ways to access the site. The short way takes you over the rock wall which is not hard for most people and you can get a little red wagon over it. The long way takes your around the rock wall, adding about 300 feet to your hike, but is wheelchair and ATV accessible. Site includes a picnic table, fire pit, cooking grate, garbage can and recycle bin.
Moderate walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
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Haen Hollow

98%
(55)
Tent site · Sleeps 14
Haen Hollow is the only site you can drive right up to at Cricket Ranch. It is located near the front of the property so it is close to the entrance, porta-potty, yard game area, and firewood stand. It is set back about 100 feet from the main trail and provides privacy. There is a picnic table, fire pit, cooking grate, garbage can and recycle bin provided. The site is surrounded by trees (Maples and Quaking Aspens) that provide a good amount of shade. The surface is grass and clover and is on a slight slant, with the most level area being shaded. Haen Hollow is a smaller site and is best suited for a smaller group. We can no longer allow vehicles/campers/trailers to park on the campsite. Our sites just aren't built for the stress. You can drive up to it and park just outside of Haen Hollow for you entire stay.
Moderate walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
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Instant book

Apple Valley (Site #5)

100%
(40)
Tent site · Sleeps 14
Apple Valley (Site #5) is very big and secluded. It is located in the valley by Chambers Creek, it has a level grass surface, and is surrounded 360 degrees by a wall of nature. There is a large amount of sky viewable for star-gazers at night. That also means there is very little shade most of the day so bringing a pop-up canopy would be worth the effort. A 25 foot trail takes you creekside and to a 500 ft trail that follows the creek. The site is closer to the road than our other sites so you get more road noise. It's not at all bad or constant but is worth a mention. Most of the time when a vehicle goes by, it's white noise. But a truck downshifting on the hill or a motorcycle with deer-repellent pipes goes by, you'll hear it (and so will your dog) Firepit, picnic table, cooking grate, garbage can and recycle bin provided.
Moderate walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
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Instant book

Camp Cricket

100%
(17)
Tent site · Sleeps 14
Simply put, Camp Cricket is our best campsite. Most of the time it is occupied by the Hosts (Jay and Jodi) so it is rarely available. If you get a chance to nab this site, you'll see why. (Big Bang Theory fans: this is Sheldon's spot) Camp Cricket is a large site nestled in the trees where 3 rock walls converge. The mature Maple and Hickory trees provide shade, some protection from wind/rain, and multiple hammock options. Perfectly level surface throughout the site so you can build your camping compound with confidence. There are two fire pits, one is an extra large ring to circle the chairs around, the other is small and ideal for cooking. This site is next to its own parking area and the "blue phone booth" is close by. **Camp Cricket is not intended for those who don't want it easy**
Moderate walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
Pets allowed
No showers

Reviews

99% Recommend365 ratings · 203 reviews
Recommends
· September 2026
Tent ·
Rocky Top
Cricket ranch is a favorite spot of ours. The kids love rustic camping and the hiking trails and creek are beautiful.
Recommends
· August 2026
A little piece of paradise
Tent ·
Grapeline
When you pack up your things and feel a little sad taking one last look around, you know you’re leaving a little piece of paradise behind. This place was spacious, peaceful, and secluded. We truly felt isolated from other people, which was exactly what we were looking for. You can hear some traffic in the distance, but honestly, it’s not bad at all and didn’t take away from the experience. This is a wonderful place to get away, reconnect with nature, and spend some time under the stars. The star gazing was absolutely beautiful. This is officially my new favorite place to camp, and I’m already looking forward to coming back!
Recommends
· July 2026
Great time!
Tent · Group trip ·
Rocky Top
Great campsite, Jay was very helpful (chill guy fr). fire pit was intact and worked. Good environment overall.
Recommends
· July 2026
Highly recommend
Tent · With pets ·
Grapeline
My family loved our two nights at Grapeline. Plenty of space between us and other campers. Host was readily available when we called for a minor thing (which he immediately resolved). Portapotty at the center of the property was easily the cleanest I have ever seen. Would absolutely return and recommend. 👍
Recommends
· July 2026
Grapeline
Tent · Group trip ·
Grapeline
Me and my friends all had a great time at this site! It was clean and well marked, and we had no trouble finding our way around. Also, the site is beautiful, with a lot of options for those who want to hammock or watch the stars at night. Thank you Jay for an excellent trip!
Recommends
· July 2026
Tent ·
Rocky Top
It's my bestie and I annual camping trip we do every year! We love it here its secluded, had a picnic table, trash can and firepit all ready to go. Never had an issue once here and great memories!
Recommends
· July 2026
Tent · With pets ·
Camp Cricket
Jay was a great host and his campsite was as described. The six of us had an awesome time and will be back!
Recommends
· June 2026
Tent ·
Camp Cricket
Beautiful place to camp we had so much fun! We would definitely camp here again.
Recommends
· June 2026
Tent · Group trip ·
Grapeline
This was an awesome spot, great privacy, the trails were well kept up, no bugs. Surprisingly, an apple space with a great big fire pit! Will definitely stay there again.
Recommends
· June 2026
Nice little spot overall
Tent ·
Haen Hollow
Host were very responsive. Sites are nice and secluded. Very well kept, clean, available trash can etc. They are also very close to town so if you need to run for quick supplies it's just down the road. The site are pretty close to a busy road heading into town so traffic noise can be somewhat steady until around 5-6 pm When it settles down and gets pretty quiet. That was fine as I was busy setting up camp and getting dinner rolling so by time I was ready to settle down, relax it was nice and quiet. There is room to walk around and explore after a good dinner. I would recommend site overall just be aware of traffic earlier afternoon but it does quiet down in later afternoon and evening. No issues with returning for another camp. I also tried to check out the lake near town but was unable to find a place that allowed me to park and access. To be fair I was just driving around so didn't stop to look up were the docks or boat ramps were located. Next time I may bring my knack and spend time at the lake. Thanks for the opportunity and great hospitality!!!
Recommends
· June 2026
Very peaceful
Tent ·
Camp Cricket
Great little spot. It was private and we couldn’t hear the other folks on the property at all. Jay was very kind and friendly. We enjoyed being so close to Kettle Moraine. Would recommend!
Recommends
· June 2026
Tent ·
Grapeline
I love Grapevine! Its got a shadier spot out front, and an even more private feeling open space set back that is sunny and beautiful. There are so many types of trees and plant species, the land is beautiful. It is the farthest site, but a doable walk for an able body. You can hear the freeway, but it doesn't take away from the beauty.
Recommends
· May 2026
Hidden gem, lovely campsite
Tent ·
Camp Cricket
Beautiful space. Lots of trees and options for hammocks and tents. This is an underrated spot for sure. Felt private and secluded. When we arrived there was no wheel barrel or cart to lug our stuff in but no worries there. Also thought it was odd that the creek access ran through our campsite and we weren’t a fan of people being encouraged to come through our campsite. Once again it didn’t affect our experience but we weren’t fans of that.
Recommends
· May 2026
Worth the Walk!
Tent · With kids ·
Grapeline
Our group loved camping at Grapeline! We easily fit 8 adults 5 kids, and 6 tents and (let's be real) way more gear than we needed for the four day weekend. The provided carts made it easy enough to transport all our stuff to and from the site, but definitely be prepared for a walk, and try to pack light! The ground was a bit muddy during our trip, so good shoes were a must. Jay was a great host! Communication was perfect, the information provided before our stay was clear and direct, and the property was well maintained. The trails and sites were mowed and we'll kept, and the portapotty was legitimately the best portapotty I've been had the pleasure of using. I would absolutely recommend this location to anyone looking for a rustic weekend away. This site in particular is great if you want to be well away from others in your own private bubble.
Mixed feelings
· April 2026
Great area
Tent · With kids ·
Grapeline
Great area but a half mile or less hike from where you park the car and from where portapotty is. Lots of woods and good seclusion. Pretty area The portapotty wasn’t there when we stayed or trash cans. You can’t drop off gear as the road there is too narrow. The closest site to the road you can.
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent · With pets ·
Grapeline
Clean, private, and spacious. Easy, wide walk in with wagons. Jay brought us a big haul of firewood. Would recommend.
Recommends
· October 2025
Grapevine is a great adventure!
Tent · With kids ·
Grapeline
Third annual camping trip to Grapeline, and every year it's a home run! We love the convenience of having the Bell tent up and ready to go when we arrive. This property is so close to so much great outdoor adventure we keep coming back year after year. See you in 2026!
Recommends
· October 2025
Spooked
Tent · With pets ·
Haen Hollow
Directions to get to the site were easy enough to follow. Portapotty was clean and well maintained. Firewood was available on site for $5 with a wagon which was helpful. We cooked our dinner over the fire grate provided & ate at the picnic table. Overall a lovely stay. We took a nature walk during sunset to scope out a bit of the land. Was cool to see the rock walls & get some history from The land owner. When we crawled into the tent for the evening we were awoken twice throughout the night from our dog barking at what seemed to be human footsteps through the fallen leaves on the path leading up to our site. We were quite spooked to say the very least… other than that, we heard truck noise from the road throughout the night which brought some comfort to us. The owner said he never heard of such a thing in the middle of the night.. Would recommend, just be aware & prepared as always when tent camping.
Recommends
· October 2025
Rocky Top Respite
Tent ·
Rocky Top
Stayed at Rocky Top for one night, what a lovely, secluded campsite! Even though there were campers at other sites I barely heard or saw them. Nice sunset view and the creek was calming. The wagon was awesome amenity as the site is a little ways in and up a bit of a hill. The only minor con was a bit of road noise but it wasn’t too loud or distracting.
Recommends
· October 2025
Haen hollow
Tent · With pets ·
Haen Hollow
Great camping spot would recommend to others. We had a group of 6, 4 dogs and 3 tents and had plenty of space. Trashcan was full when we got there with trash on the ground and no wood was left in the precut bundle area. Can hear the traffic from the site but really wasn't a problem for us. Overall would go again.
Recommends
· October 2025
First time Hipcampers
Tent · With pets ·
Grapeline
This was our first time staying at a Hipcamp. Don't think we will ever go to another crowded campground again. This is exactly what we were looking for. We adopted 2 rescue dogs a few years ago and one is not so great with people. Pretty much put an end to our camping. This site was absolutely perfect. We picked the furthest site away from the others, Grapeline. It was not a bad walk at all, remote enough that we could let the dogs off leash. We still encountered other campers when we were coming and going for the day, near the parking area and Porta potty. Lake Michigan is near by and Kettle Morain for some great hiking. This trip and the camp were exactly what we were looking for. Perfect!
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent ·
Grapeline
Super nice property and host! We stayed at Grapeline and barely heard any traffic from the road. Would recommend!
Mixed feelings
· September 2025
An overall great time
Tent · With pets ·
Haen Hollow
Overall, we had a great experience. Pros: -The site was easily located via the pin provided on Google. The directions listed on the Hipcamp posting were clear. -The site was clean and provided a lot of shade with a big open area in the middle. On a clear night the view would be amazing. -The porta potty was clean, close by, and stocked according to needs -Ability to drive up to the site was ideal for me. -Wood available for purchase at site offered convenience. -Not able to hear other campers when in other sites. So quiet nights... a well needed retreat. -Site is private as it is surrounded by trees and tucked a bit back. -location is 10-15 min away from lots of walking trails. - Grabbed food at a local joint. Sipps bar and grill. Owned by a local couple. The food and service were great!! -Dog loved her time...the ability to have her roam a bit was awesome. Cons: All due to my own lack of thought. So I list them to help others realize what some pros may also entail. - Be aware that this site IS right off of the loading and unloading area(a bit less than 100 feet) so you will have to deal with noise from other arrivals...even when they decide to come later in the evening. As well as other departures...even if that departure is at 1130 at night. - Because the porta potty is close by you may catch a wiff or 2. -Since this is a shaded area you will have to deal will have some muddy areas if it decides to rain...we got stormed on 70% of our time there.
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
Rocky Top
Great communication from the host, everything exactly as described. We had a question upon arrival and Jay was very helpful. The site was well maintained and the property is beautiful.
Recommends
· September 2025
Tranquil times @ Cricket Ranch!
Tent · With pets ·
Haen Hollow
We had an awesome time at Cricket Ranch! We were lucky enough to have the entire property to ourselves for a night of camping! The host, Jay, was incredibly communicative and accommodating. It’s awesome that he has firewood for sale right in the general area, porta potty was very clean & all sites were awesome as we did explore with our 3 dogs! The off leash amenity of this location is hard to beat! We will be back!
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent ·
Apple Valley (Site #5)
We got rained out, but the dry time we had was great! Port o potty was amazing. Our dog had a blast getting to camp and be free!
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent · With pets ·
Apple Valley (Site #5)
Awesome spot! Tent camped at site 5, it felt nice and private. You hear a little car traffic during the day but it’s pretty quiet at night and doesn’t take away from the experience. Wonderful spot to see the stars. The sled is very helpful getting supplies to the site from your car. There is a bit of a hill towards the actual site itself so have decent shoes on, again nothing crazy or undoable. I would recommend this spot if you need a relaxing getaway!
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent ·
Grapeline
We had a great weekend camping here! The grapeline site was secluded and peaceful, and the hosts quick to respond with answers to questions.
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent ·
Rocky Top
Great place to camp, would definitely camp here again.
Recommends
· September 2025
Awesome stay!
Tent · With kids ·
Haen Hollow
This was such a great spot to camp! The site was well maintained, so clean, and had lots of spots to explore (the rock wall was fun to explore and the history of the area is fascinating). Our host, Jay, was also very responsive. We definitely will stay again. One note, the road noise was loud at times, mostly overnight due to the big rigs taking that route. Not at all a deal breaker, just a heads up for any light sleepers!

Location

Cascade, Sheboygan, Wisconsin, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Jay S.

Joined in September 2021

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