Hosted by James C.
Activities
Biking
Boating
Fishing
Hiking
Natural features
Forest
River, stream, or creek
Swimming hole
Waterfall
Not currently accepting bookings on Hipcamp
More camping spots nearby
98% 
89 Ratings · 65 reviews
Tabitha Y.recommends
August 9, 2020
Sterling Creek Ranch
My partner and I had an incredible time staying at Sterling Creek Ranch! Jamie was an exceptional host.
We wanted a weekend retreat to try out some swimming holes. We had a fantastic afternoon at the South Yuba River, then drove to Sterling Creek Ranch. It was a little tricky getting in because Midway had closed and it was getting dark, but James helped us navigate inside.
We were given the option to camp in a few approved areas in the ranch. We chose to pitch our tent by the picnic table to sleep under the stars. The night was warm, but it was worth it! Also when we arrived (around 8-9pm) there were a TON of mosquitoes outside. Jamie lent us some repellant, but we got a ton of bites before we used it. Bring bug spray!
In the morning, Jamie fed the horses and let us interact with them. He also gave us pellets to feed the alpacas, which was our favorite part! The alpacas were curious and fun to observe and play with, not afraid of people at all. Jamie had a lot of interesting stories and told us a lot of great info about the ranch and the animals.
When we departed, Jamie gifted us with eggs from his chickens. We had a marvelous time and would recommend this Hipcamp to anyone for a unique experience!
Matthias S.recommends
August 4, 2020
Sterling Creek Ranch
Tranquil setting, most unique host
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Sterling Creek Ranch. We camped with our travel trailer next to the house (where there is electric and water hook up) and looked out over pastures in which horses and alpacas grazed tranquilly. Every now and then a chicken would come by and peck around for some food. We enjoyed some delicious free-range eggs generously gifted to us by our host. James regaled us with stories from many aspects of his life, including summers in Germany growing up and stories from his cutting-edge research and work. We thoroughly enjoyed being surrounded by acres and acres of almond trees and also exploring Chico. We highly recommend a stay at Sterling Creek Ranch.
Fernando W.recommends
August 3, 2020
Sterling Creek Ranch
It was a super fun trip. James was so awesome and welcoming. Make sure you bring bug spray / wipes during summer days!
Maria R.recommends
August 3, 2020
Sterling Creek Ranch
It's hard to describe how wonderful Sterling Creek is. James is a caring, kind, and welcoming host. He gave us eggs, allowed us to feed the chickens and the alpacas, and provided us with recommendations for places around the area. The communication with his was very fluid as well. Our site had lots of shade and a picnic table (I am not sure if all sited have a picnic table. The portable restroom was very clean and there is a sink to wash the dishes. We visited lowed Bidwell 20 minutes away from Sterling Creek and it was perfect for getting a refreshing swim and appropriate for young children.
The only two issues we faced were mosquitoes and three rusters who had time-zone confusions and woke us at 4am.
Saurabh A.recommends
August 3, 2020
Sterling Creek Ranch
Jamie is as nice as all the reviews mention — he makes the experience, and is a very generous person. Our little 2.5 yr old loved him and all the animals. We got fresh eggs every morning from the hens’ nests! It can get really really hot (end of July) so we spent a lot of the day away near water (Chico’s bidwell park was pretty great for kids, as is thermalito forebay). The mornings and evenings are nice in summer, but bring lots of bug spray! If you are a light sleeper, bring ear plugs.
Matthew B.recommends
July 27, 2020
Sterling Creek Ranch
Worked out great!
Hosted by James C.
Joined in June 2017Things to do nearby
Safety at Hipcamp
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.