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Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge

99%
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· Gordonsville, Orange, Virginia
66 acres hosted by John J.
2 lodging sites
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John is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
Off-leash friendly
Pets can be off-leash at this Hipcamp.
Near Shenandoah National Park
Within a 60-minute drive from the Swift Run Gap Entrance Station.
Amazing views
Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
With views over the ocean of trees and town below, our three Jefferson Sea Glamping 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 op the hill 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, two of 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! Our third cabin, which was recently completed, sits on the original Main House site of this historic property. It has even better views. Wildlife, including eagles, hawks, turkey, fox, rabbit, deer, fireflies and more are abundant on the 66-acre property. 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. Tow of our cabins are off grid — no electric and no plumbing but with alternative water and light. The third and newest enjoys electric. In all, we make it comfortable and easy to unplug and enjoy the outside without the hassle. While there is no "running" water, we bring you fresh spring water. And while there is no electric in 2 cabins we make up for it with solar and battery lights and fans. We also offer a propane heater in all 3 to keep you toasty in cooler weather. The 2 original Jefferson Sea 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. Both off-grid cabins are 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 original cabin is slightly smaller interior than the lower cabin. The newest third cabin is called the Boxwood Overlook Cabin, because it is surrounded by huge boxwoods and overlooks the entire property. It sits where the original main house was located, but burned down in the 1920's. It is more luxurious that the other 2. It's 12x20, includes an organic queen bed, refrigerator, reclining chairs, interior and exterior lights. And you can drive right to the front door. Each cabin gets a propane heater which keeps you toasty even on the coldest winter nights. In warmer months, the 2 off-grid cabins have battery-powered fans with plenty of industrial batteries. They 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. The Boxwood Overlook cabin has electricity with interior and exterior lights, refrigerator and AC in the summer. All the cabins enjoy 5-gallon containers of fresh spring water and their own private Loo House/bathroom. The Loo Houses or bathrooms are semi open air. They have roofs, a solar bag shower, and bedside commodes with large, disposable, biodegradable bag inside with special sand that solidifies your waste. You dispose of the bag at a nearby trash box off property, just like a diaper. Extra bags are available. 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. The "Jefferson Sea" is a description many attribute to the nation's 4th President, Thomas Jefferson, who enjoyed the same ocean-like view (but better) of fields and trees below his home at Monticello, that is located 15 miles down the road. Enjoy giant Ginkgo trees (especially in the Fall), boxwood gardens, colossal Tulip Poplars, and Osage Orange trees, and wild organic raspberries in July. 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.
Activities
Biking
Boating
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Hiking
Natural features
Forest
River, stream, or creek
Mountainous
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99%
75 ratings · 66 reviews
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Tahnesha H.recommends
March 20, 2024
Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
Serenity
I had a great experience peace and quiet over looking the mountains..
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Rebecca G.recommends
March 4, 2024
Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
Beautiful place to stay
Beautiful place to spend a few days! My host was very kind and helpful. The little cabin is set up beautifully and is comfortable. Had a great view of the sunset and stars, and a lovely little porch to enjoy the sun and birds in the morning. I would definitely recommend!
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Lucy E.recommends
December 16, 2023
Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
The cutest little cabin!
We absolutely loved our stay here! I would recommend this place, or any of John’s properties, to anyone! It was very well kept, had everything we needed, and is at a great location. The cabin may be tiny, but it comfortably fit us (two 6ft+ adults) and our dog🙂. John gave us recommendations for wineries/breweries and restaurants in the area leading up to our stay, which was super helpful since I have severe food allergies and it is difficult to find places to eat. Gordonsville is such a lovely town with great restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops! The Main Street is just about a 5 minute drive away, but you still feel remote and like you’re camping here! Also, the stars at night are unbelievable, especially for being so close to town!
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Larissa P.recommends
October 28, 2023
Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
John is such a friendly and helpful host and his land is just beautiful! Camping experience in nature, but with the comforts of a nice bed, outhouse, table & chairs and fire pit with wood… just a quick drive from Charlottesville. Ideal getaway!
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Kevin M.recommends
October 17, 2023
Jefferson Sea Cabin on Ginkgo Ridge
Beautiful location with a very accommodating host. Recommend!
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Amy B.recommends
October 15, 2023
Glamping Cabin, Gorgeous Views #2
Beautiful views in great location
John met us at the property and gave us a short overview of everything. His cabin was terrific, the views were amazing especially at sunset, and it made for a lovely getaway that felt really private and secluded but was only a couple of minutes from downtown Gordonsville, which had a number of fun and delicious restaurants, breweries and coffee shops. It was near Monticello, Montpelier, and lots of hiking, vineyards, and gorgeous scenery.
Location
Gordonsville, Orange, Virginia, United StatesTraditional, ancestral territory of Monacan and Manahoac First Nations according to To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by John J.Joined in July 2020
Response rate: 100%
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