Past trips
Past trip
in Bailes Farm, CaliforniaWe are Hip Camp regulars always looking for new adventures - Bailes Hilltop Lodge did not disappoint! Christopher's lodge built at the crest of a hill in a cradled canyon has everything you need to enjoy a great outdoor experience without having to pack the kitchen sink. The Lodge had a small kitchen with a basin sink, mini refrigerator, outdoor grill and single cooktop to make cooking and dining a simple task. The kitchen is stocked with dishes, cookware and utensils, a coffee maker and electric hot water kettle. The outdoor shower was surprisingly hot and a welcome luxury. The composting toilet did the job. It was nice having a comfortable king sized bed that assured a good night's rest. We enjoyed the private location, quiet setting and the views. We were impressed by the variety of bird species in the area. Christopher, the host, was on the property the weekend we stayed, doing some projects. He was far enough across the canyon that we had our privacy, but he was responsive and offered help on several occasions, even though none was needed. Christopher does not charge a cleaning fee, so each guest is expected to clean up for the next group. If you're like me and enjoy things clean and orderly, plan to I spend some time dusting and cleaning before settling in. There is plenty of space to spread out and ample areas for relaxing in the sun or shade on the property. We enjoyed our stay and hope to return in the future. The nearby Santa Margarita River Trail & Preserve is a definite "don't miss."




Past trip
in Whiteside Mountain, CaliforniaI am a regular Whiteside Mountain guest - can't say enough good things about Steve and his amazing property - just wish so many other people hadn't discovered it because now I don't get to go there as often as I would like! 😆
Past trip
Under the Stars
in Under the Stars, CaliforniaWe had a lovely, relaxing weekend staying at Under the Stars, an authentic 1952 Hanson Love Bug trailer positioned in a magical country garden (the owner's backyard) under giant oaks. While compact, the charming trailer (15ft long x 6.5 feet wide x 6.5 feet high) is well kept and equipped with eveything you need to cook your meals and provide a comfortable night's sleep. There's a separate bathroom shed - clean and spacious - with a nice warm shower, sink and toilet. The garden/backyard that the trailer sits in is beautifully cared for, and simply magical at night, with all the well placed mood lighting. There's a propane firepit and outdoor chairs to sit and lounge on, as well a lovely outdoor dining table. An inviting swing hangs from one of the many oaks that shroud the space. Lots of little, thoughtful details throughout the property. The White Rock swimming hole is a quick 10 minute walk away, although it's end of the season right now. Didn't get to try any of the hikes because trails were closed due to fire risk but the property is very centrally located to many nearby attractions - Lake Cachuma, Santa Barbara, the beaches, The Painted Cave, Solvang and Santa Ynez. Karen, the owner was a very friendly, gracious and accommodating host. We enjoyed the many birds that visited the property, especially the regular visits from wild turkeys.




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Past trips
Whiteside Mountain
in Whiteside Mountain, CaliforniaWhiteside Mountain
in Whiteside Mountain, CaliforniaI am a regular. Whiteside never disappoints. Steve, the owner is a pleasure to interact with. Wish it wasn't so hard to get reservations.
Whiteside Mountain
in Whiteside Mountain, CaliforniaI am a regular at Whiteside, but no matter how many times I come here, I am always taken aback by the serenity of the mountain top campsite and its beautiful views. It's definitely one of my "Happy Places."
Dome Home under the Queen Palms
in Bailes Farm, CaliforniaAt home in the dome
Loved staying at Bailes Dome Home - the dome tent is roomy and does a nice job of keeping the elements out. The overall light and ambience is very pleasant and cozy within the tent. The beds are comfortable and the clear window allows for beautiful views. The covered kitchen area has everything needed to cook your meals "al fresco" and the picnic table and outdoor area is a welcoming place to relax, sun bathe, take in a sunset or simply look up at the stars at night. The warm outdoor shower is a welcomed delight. We explored the property, hiked the Santa Margarita River Trail, had margaritas at Estrellas in Fallbrook and enjoyed each others company and the great outdoors. So many birds in the area if that's something you enjoy.
Whiteside Mountain
in Whiteside Mountain, CaliforniaHilltop Lodge Tiny House
in Bailes Farm, CaliforniaHilltop hideaway
We are Hip Camp regulars always looking for new adventures - Bailes Hilltop Lodge did not disappoint! Christopher's lodge built at the crest of a hill in a cradled canyon has everything you need to enjoy a great outdoor experience without having to pack the kitchen sink. The Lodge had a small kitchen with a basin sink, mini refrigerator, outdoor grill and single cooktop to make cooking and dining a simple task. The kitchen is stocked with dishes, cookware and utensils, a coffee maker and electric hot water kettle. The outdoor shower was surprisingly hot and a welcome luxury. The composting toilet did the job. It was nice having a comfortable king sized bed that assured a good night's rest. We enjoyed the private location, quiet setting and the views. We were impressed by the variety of bird species in the area. Christopher, the host, was on the property the weekend we stayed, doing some projects. He was far enough across the canyon that we had our privacy, but he was responsive and offered help on several occasions, even though none was needed. Christopher does not charge a cleaning fee, so each guest is expected to clean up for the next group. If you're like me and enjoy things clean and orderly, plan to I spend some time dusting and cleaning before settling in. There is plenty of space to spread out and ample areas for relaxing in the sun or shade on the property. We enjoyed our stay and hope to return in the future. The nearby Santa Margarita River Trail & Preserve is a definite "don't miss."
Hilltop Lodge Tiny House
in Bailes Farm, CaliforniaWhiteside Mountain
in Whiteside Mountain, CaliforniaCan't get enough
I am a regular Whiteside Mountain guest - can't say enough good things about Steve and his amazing property - just wish so many other people hadn't discovered it because now I don't get to go there as often as I would like! 😆
Porte-Cochere in Joshua Tree
in The Joshua Tree Bom, CaliforniaQuaint and comfortable camping set-
Really enjoyed our stay at Porte Cochere - it's a unique and artsy arrangement, with just the right amount of amenities to take some of the set-up work out of camping. The property was clean and ready for our arrival. The "bed shed" (as I named it) was not large, but we fit three people in using the platform for two and a single air mattress for the third person. We enjoyed having the storage shelf, side table, solar lighting/outlets and the sliding french doors. The sink/wash basin area was very convenient for cleaning up (ourselves and the dishes) and we hung potable shower bags on the large fence hooks that heated up really well with the desert day time heat. The porta potty is clean and close by. The owners are in the process of building a flush toilet for Porte Cochere and if it turns out as cute as the one constructed for The Penzione, it will be an added bonus. The fences that frame the site provide privacy and are a good wind break. The picnic table, wooden backed bench and campfire set-up/ring were all welcome spots to relax. We stretched a couple of light tarps to provide shade, hung our hammock and it felt like home. It's a quiet area and even with guests staying at the adjoining Pensione, we felt like we had a piece of the desert to ourselves. Cheryl and Jimbo were responsive and welcoming. They met us in town to guide us to the camp site and gave us a quick once over of how things worked. The property had a lot of personality and I would definitely go back. I would recommend going with a bigger group and renting both campsites. As many have described before, you are not far from the hwy but it is not an issue at all.
Whiteside Mountain
in Whiteside Mountain, CaliforniaHappy in jamul
So glad to be back atop Whiteside Mountain - no matter how many times I visit I am never disappointed. Tried the Hollenbeck Canyon Loop Trail this visit - very pleasant - would love to check it out in the Spring when the river is fully flowing.
Whiteside Mountain
in Whiteside Mountain, CaliforniaUnder the Stars
in Under the Stars, CaliforniaGlamping getaway
We had a lovely, relaxing weekend staying at Under the Stars, an authentic 1952 Hanson Love Bug trailer positioned in a magical country garden (the owner's backyard) under giant oaks. While compact, the charming trailer (15ft long x 6.5 feet wide x 6.5 feet high) is well kept and equipped with eveything you need to cook your meals and provide a comfortable night's sleep. There's a separate bathroom shed - clean and spacious - with a nice warm shower, sink and toilet. The garden/backyard that the trailer sits in is beautifully cared for, and simply magical at night, with all the well placed mood lighting. There's a propane firepit and outdoor chairs to sit and lounge on, as well a lovely outdoor dining table. An inviting swing hangs from one of the many oaks that shroud the space. Lots of little, thoughtful details throughout the property. The White Rock swimming hole is a quick 10 minute walk away, although it's end of the season right now. Didn't get to try any of the hikes because trails were closed due to fire risk but the property is very centrally located to many nearby attractions - Lake Cachuma, Santa Barbara, the beaches, The Painted Cave, Solvang and Santa Ynez. Karen, the owner was a very friendly, gracious and accommodating host. We enjoyed the many birds that visited the property, especially the regular visits from wild turkeys.