4 acres hosted by Spencer H.
3 Vehicle/Tent sites
Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Spencer is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
Romantic
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is romantic.
Creature comforts
Enjoy the comforts of home—including flush toilets, showers, and a kitchen.
At Howe Ranch, we provide more than just a farm stay; we offer a healing, transformative experience that teaches relaxation and rejuvenation through profound connections with our gentle, trained farm animals.
Baby animal alert! We are excited to share the arrival of our sweet Highland calf, MaryLou, who, along our precious little Scottish Highland calf Petunia is loves cow cuddles and bottle feeding from visitors. They already learned to give cow kisses! All of our gentle micro and mini cows are known to provide comfort to visitors dealing with anxiety and stress. Whether it’s hugging or grooming them, meditating with our mini goats or flock, every interaction is designed to soothe and inspire.
Proceeds from HipCamp directly support the feed and care for our farm animals, of which many are rescues (501c and private).
In other news, Winter Wonderland at Howe Ranch is near! Starting in early November, the farm transforms into cozy, rustic Holiday experience with photo opportunities to make memories!
Important: By making a booking request you agree that you have read the listing in its entirety and agreed.
INCLUDED IN YOUR FARM STAY:
1. A personalized farm animal encounter on the evening of your arrival day and participation in the morning animal care routine
2. Unique learning experiences, and opportunities to relax with the gentle barn animals outside of the care routine times
3. Organic chicken and duck eggs for breakfast
4. Clean restroom in barn with dish washing capabilities (shower is in the pool area/Extra)
5. Free use of the outdoor camp kitchen with 2 propane stoves and basic cooking supplies (must be cleaned after use)
6. Free use of the BBQ with utensils (BYO charcoal)
7. Free optional use of camping equipment (chairs, canopy, small mats)
8. A large safe space for children to play in with toys and games in the 80 ft. x 40 ft. sand camp
9. Pool season is over but you can request a free shower pass (the hot outdoor shower is in the pool venue by the farm house) or add on a 2-Hour Hot Tub session. Go to Extras to explore this option.
10. Access to other "Extras" such as electric and water hookups, and extra parking
The overnight farm stay experience is generally only available on limited Fridays of the year from 2:00 p.m. until Saturday 1:00 p.m. Please do not instant book Saturdays and other days of the week/weekend, as we have regular activities at the farm the make the camp unavailable.
UPCOMING LONGER STAY OPPORTUNITIES:
Winter Wonderland Camp:
November 11 - November 24
If you would like to visit with us other times for longer or during the week, please inquire first if we have the capacity to accommodate (no instant booking, please).
Another popular way to experience our farm animals one on one is the Farm Animal Encounter, which you can book through our website. This Experience is facilitated and takes about 50 - 90 minutes depending on the size of your group. $30/guest, guests under 2 years of age free. Group discount for groups of 7+.
DETAILS ON FARMER FOR THE DAY OVERNIGHT CAMP:
SELF-SUFFICIENT GUEST POLICY
Due to our daily workload, we can only host independent guests who are comfortable exploring the listing details and utilizing available resources on their own. Please note that:
* Our personalized animal tour is guided, but guests will learn to relax around the animals independently after the tour.
* The camping stay is self-facilitated, meaning the hosts are not available to entertain or assist your family members beyond the provided information and scheduled tour.
ABOUT THE AREA:
Nestled on just under 4 foothill acres backing against the wilderness of the Santa Rosa Plateau, but only 2 minutes from shopping, coffee, and dining, our small, veteran owned farm with a private petting zoo opportunity provides a charming and picturesque setting that encompasses the essence of rustic hospitality. It is generally hot in the area during the day June to October, but cool at night and there are lots of fun things to do in the area. Please reference our VISITOR GUIDE on thehoweranch.com and linked to in the photo section here.
OUR POLICY ON PRICING and INTEGRITY
We’ve encountered an increasing number of inquiries where guests try to pressure us into lowering our prices or dispute the value of our services (i.e. pricing of "Extras," last minute cancellation refund requests). While we understand that the current economy might be influencing this behavior, we want to make it clear that such actions are unacceptable and will not be tolerated as our services are priced equitably, ensuring that all guests contribute the same amount for the experiences we offer.🌟 Farmer for a Day Retreat with Private Petting Zoo🌟
Due to our property being an animal farm with associated liabilities, we require all guests to acknowledge that they have thoroughly read our entire listing before making a booking request.
CAMP FOCUS: HANDS ON ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS As a visitor to Howe Ranch, you'll have the opportunity for hands-on interactions with our lovely barn and pasture residents and experience the daily care routine, as well as relaxation. Many of them are rescues, ranging from micro and mini Highland cows to white donkeys, mini goats, ducks, chickens, lop bunnies, and even a barn tomcat, who joined us from a sanctuary.
CAMP CULTURE: The site is for social campers, not travelers who seek a private spot in nature. Vehicles/RVs are parked in the small central parking area between the animal barn and the pavilion (3 spots total). The sand camp offers a vibrant space for tent campers, complete with a communal fireplace, various games/toys, and shaded picnic tables. The provided photos offer a clear preview of our setup. Here, the shared passion is a love for animals and a commitment to sustainable farming, rather than partying. Please note, alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited to ensure safety and manage liability (no HipCamp coverage for use).
CAMP AVAILABILITY: Overnight farm stay camp bookings can be made for Friday afternoon, 2 p.m., until Saturday 1 p.m. on certain weekends of the year, and on occasion on additional days, as posted here.
Upcoming longer camp opportunities: October 8 - 15 November 11 - 24 (Winter Wonderland Camp)
Public Officials/Celebrities: Please inquire with us if you are seeking a serene escape from the spotlight during the week. When possible, we offer exclusive weekday stays tailored for those in the public eye. Enjoy our private, secure environment where you can unwind in peace, away from the cameras and crowds.
Please understand, our team can only respond to inquiries from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. due to our daily workload. We encourage reviewing our listing, FAQs, rules, and photos thoroughly before reaching out.
CONDUCT POLICY By making a booking request, guests commit to our zero-tolerance policy towards disrespectful behavior. This includes but is not limited to:
* Respecting our and other people's property * Only guests able to modulate behavior can interact with the animals * Not abusing resources or amenities provided * Not intruding upon the hosts' personal space (farmhouse)
Our camp provides numerous amenities for guests, and we expect all items to remain on-site in their original condition. Guests who "accidentally" take our belongings will be required to replace them at twice their value. If you break something, you are expected to make arrangements for replacement immediately.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in maintaining a respectful and enjoyable environment for all our guests.
CAMP FAQs: Question: Can we use the pool venue? • Pool season is now over as the pool is cooler, but guests can request a complimentary daily shower pass (the hot shower is in the Pool Venue uphill), and as an Extra a two-hour Hot Tub Session ($35). The hot tub has to be heated by your host as the farm is on propane. Hot tub hours are 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM. The Pool Venue by our farmhouse on the upper part of the property includes a large pool, TV, cabanas, shaded seating, panoramic views, and a hot shower. Please note that pool availability may vary due to special event rentals. Check with your host regarding temporary closures closer to your arrival. Remember, alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all farm guests.
Question: How far in advance can I book? • If you plan to visit on a holiday/school break weekend OR if your trip is over 3 weeks out, please DO NOT INSTANT BOOK but inquire ahead of time about availability. We have a lot of activities on our little farm and can generally not finalize our special event schedule more than 3 weeks out.
Question: Can we interact with the animals? • Yes! Guests can interact with our rescue animals during scheduled care times for a safe, hands-on experience. You will also have the opportunity to relax with some of our barn animals on your own time, and you can observe all animals throughout the day!
Question: Is firewood included? • The stack of firewood is communal, "you take some, you leave some." Using and not replacing wood is considered discourteous and goes against our community values.
Question: We are two adults and two small children, ages 2 and 3. Do we need to make the reservation for our children, too? • Yes, all guests have to be registered through HipCamp for liability management, this includes our youngest guests, as well. You cannot check in unregistered guests. All guests under 13 years of age are considered children per HipCamp.
Question: Can we bring extra cars and tents for our site? • Your tent site is planned for one tent and one car because our exclusive retreat offers only three sites and three parking spots total, each for single family use. If you bring more than one tent for your children for example, inquire with your host first regarding existing reservations and logistics, and if there is space, add the additional tents via "Extra." If you have two cars in your family, please inquire first if there is room to add this Extra, and all vehicles have to be registered prior to arrival. Generally, we ask that you rent two separate sites if you have two cars.
Question: Is late check-out available? • Operational activities and liability coverage require guest-free times before check-in (2:00 p.m.) and after check-out (12:00 p.m.). It is important that you do not check out after 12:00 p.m. Early check-in may on occasion be available for a fee ($25) upon request at booking.
Question: Can we have exclusive use of the property for a large group? • No. Howe Ranch has regular activities outside of the camp opportunity onsite. HipCamp is for single-family stays, up to three camping sites/cars. For gatherings/events, you may make a booking request through our site directly or Peerspace/Swimply, with optional overnight camping as an Add-On (inquire first).
Question: Can we bring our dog? • Some small, friendly, leashed dogs are welcome, except for certain breeds (Pitbull terriers, Dobermans, Rottweilers, Huskies, etc.) due to stress to farm animals. Gated, off-leash area available if other guests agree (the sand pit). Dog booking approval is required before booking. Dogs cannot be near the animal pens.
Question: Suggestions for local activities? • Our Visitor Guide covers guest favorites: Tenaja Falls Hike, Lunch in Old Town Temecula with air conditioned Pennypickle's Workshop children's museum, shopping, and restaurants; Wine Country, and more. See our Visitor Guide online or the QR code in our photo section.
Question: We have friends who are staying in the area. Can they come by just for the day and meet the animals? • No, campers cannot receive/entertain unregistered visitors. Inquire with your host if a Farm Animal Encounter/Tour is offered on the day of your stay or if another site is available for your guests to rent. Unregisterd guests must not enter, utilize the camp or other parts of the property in any way. This policy allows us to manage safety, liability, staffing, and site logistics effectively.
Question: Can we walk to attractions from Howe Ranch? • Howe Ranch is close to the Santa Rosa Plateau Wilderness Preserve and a 17-minute drive to Tenaja Falls trailhead. It’s near I-15, with easy access to shops, dining, and Temecula Valley attractions. No direct trail access from the property.
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🏕️ Your Accommodations: Pitch your tent by your car or in the “sand pit,” or bring your RV with hookup option (this is an Extra; there is only one spot with full H/U- first come first serve; inquire about availability!).
🚽 Animal Barn with Restroom: Our animal barn offers toys, camping chairs, games, etc. to check out, and a restroom that is close to all camp spots. The sink area features a Brita filter pitcher so you can quickly make potable water. You can clean your camping food prep supplies and utensils here, but make sure to not clog the sink. Food goes in the trash can.
🔥Fire Pit: The adjacent, communal fire pit offers hours of cozy relaxation. The stack of firewood is communal, "you take some, you leave some." Roast marshmallows, share a song, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the night under a sky full of stars. Open unless there is a Fire Ban is in effect.
🌄 Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and rural landscape, the perfect backdrop for your unforgettable adventure and family photos.
🍔 Outdoor Cooking: Grill up your favorites under the pavilion with our outdoor kitchen and/or the BBQ, complete with a propane stove top, pan, pot, cutting board, knife and cooking (spatula) and grilling utensils. You clean whatever you use into the trash, ground, and barn sink. If you want to BBQ, remember to bring charcoal. You are expected to leave any area and cooking resource clean after use, and inventory the supplies (ensure you don't pack our inventory by accident).
🐾Wildlife Activity and Sounds: Spot the wild animals on the property: We have a pair of barn owls and their young (5) on the property. On occasion we see a bobcat, and mountain lions around. Around the little duck pond live 7 of California toads, and a pair of Pacific tree frogs. You might hear coyotes howling and livestock guard dogs (LGDs) in the neighborhood responding to a threat of a predator. You might also hear our rooster early in the morning.
GOOD THINGS TO KNOW AND CAMP RULES
Is the camp quiet? Guests cherish the serenity here, enveloped in tranquility unique to our camp adjacent to wilderness and nestled in a rural area. Nights may serenade you with coyotes' calls, met by the vigilant replies of neighborhood livestock guard dogs (LGDs) warding off predators. Come dawn, the distant crow of a rooster might greet you. These sounds are the essence of a stay by the wilderness, adding to the rustic charm of your experience.
Bathroom Use: Guests can use the restroom in the barn and are asked to keep it clean. The ranch is on a septic system. Don’t flush: ANY Moist type towelettes, hygiene products, Baby wipes, bunches of toilet paper. Damage to the system caused by the guest will result in a restoration bill to the guest. There is a shower in the pool venue (not in the camp), which you can use by purchasing a pool access pass.
Quiet Hours: The Barn Site is a quiet site after 9 PM. Please do not blast music at any time.
Interaction with Hosts/Staff: We love to say hello and offer animal interactions at around 9:30 a.m. and sunset, with limited availability otherwise, because we work 7 days/week. Please submit inquiries via the HipCamp app and forgive a delay in response. Rest Time for the hosts and staff is from 9:00 PM - 8:00 AM. Message only with emergency.
Dog Policy: Some small dogs are welcome, leashed (at all time), in the sand camp area, and if the other guests are comfortable, the fenced in sand camp can be closed off for off leash dog socialization. Due to the proximity to farm animals and to ensure their safety, we unfortunately cannot accommodate many breeds known for their strong prey drives and guarding instincts. Restricted breeds include, but are not limited to, Pitbull terriers, Dobermans, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Belgian Malinois, Akitas, Mastiffs, Huskies, and other bigger breeds. Dogs must not get near the fences of the animal pens, as it will create stress. We can also not accommodate dogs who bark regularly, because Livestock Guard Dogs (LGDs) in the rural area will react and it will create an environment that is not suitable for an overnight camp due to noise pollution. Prior to making a booking you must share your intent to bring a dog to the site for the safety of all. Guests who violate this policy will be reported and evicted because safety of our guests, residents, and livestock is our highest priority.
Don't miss out on this unique experience that's perfect for families, friends, or couples seeking to escape the city and connect with the farm life. Book your spot at the Howe Ranch Petting Zoo Camp today and make memories that will last a lifetime!
