Shimmerback Ranch

100%

33 reviews

· Willits, Mendocino, California · 150 acres

Hosted by Ben G.

4 tent sites

Staff verified

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Ben is a Star Host

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Nestled in a magical valley along Dutch Henry Creek, Shimmerback Ranch is a working farm and queer land community, with whom guests may share common facilities such as the kitchen and bathhouse. We're proponents of plant medicine and are known to throw an occasional dance party in the woods. Shimmerback Ranch is clothing optional/body positive, which means you can be naked if you want. We are respectful and inclusive of all people, and we expect the same of our guests. We have two land dogs, Lola and Jenny, friendly and rambunctious pit mixes. Please note that while our road can be challenging for some 2WD vehicles (though most do just fine), we're happy to shuttle guests in using our land truck. Shimmerback Ranch is perfectly situated an hour south of the Avenue of the Giants redwood groves, an hour from the stunning Mendocino coast, less than an hour from Mendocino's famed wineries, and just two easy hours from the Golden Gate Bridge. Learn more about this land: Camp along our beautiful year-round creek and enjoy 150 magical acres of classic Mendocino woodlands and meadows. Stroll across our swinging bridge to take a dip in the gorgeous swimming hole. Doze off in a hammock after a ridge-top hike. Soak in the wood fired hot tub under the stars. Guests have access to our fabulous outdoor kitchen, solar shower and flush toilet. There's even wifi and a big screen projector for outdoor movies.Camp along our beautiful year-round creek and enjoy 150 magical acres of classic Mendocino woodlands and meadows. Stroll across our swinging bridge to take a dip in the gorgeous swimming hole. Doze off in a hammock after a ridge-top hike. Soak in the wood fired hot tub under the stars. Guests have access to our fabulous outdoor kitchen, solar shower and flush toilet. There's even wifi and a big screen projector for outdoor movies. Shimmerback Ranch is perfectly situated an hour south of the Avenue of the Giants redwood groves, an hour from the stunning Mendocino coast, less than an hour from Mendocino's famed wineries, and just two easy hours from the Golden Gate Bridge. Shimmerback Ranch is a working farm and queer land community, with whom guests may share common facilities such as the kitchen and bathhouse. We're proponents of plant medicine and are known to throw an occasional dance party in the woods. Shimmerback Ranch is clothing optional/body positive, which means you can be naked if you want. We are respectful and inclusive of all people, and we expect the same of our guests. We have two land dogs, Lola and Jenny, friendly and rambunctious pit mixes. Please note that our road can be challenging for some 2WD vehicles. If you have concerns about your vehicle let us know; we may be able to shuttle you in using our truck. Please note: If you wish to use the hot tub please order the hot tub extra with your booking and let us know in advance so we can get the tub heated up. If you wish to cook in the kitchen, please order the propane extra with your booking.

What to expect

Tent site

Camping area selected or assigned upon arrival.

6 guests max per site

Toilet available

No campfires

No pets

Potable water available

Showers available

Bins available

Cooking equipment present

Picnic table present

Wifi available

Hot Tub present

If you wish to use the hot tub please let us know in advance so we can get it heated up.

Laundry absent

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 2:00 PM

Check out: Before 12:00 PM

On arrival: Meet with Host

Cancellation policy: Flexible

Minimum nights: 2 nights

Accepts bookings: 6 months out

Short walk

No wheelchair access

Max 2 vehicles

4WD required

We are a mile in on a gravel road. There is a steep hill that can be challenging for 2WD vehicles, especially in summer when the gravel is looser. If you have a concern about your vehicle please let us know; we may be able to shuttle you and your gear in using our truck.

During your trip

Follow the

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

ExtrasAvailable at checkout

Hot Tubgood

$50.00

Cost per stay to clean and heat up tub

Auntie Blim Blam's Haunted Hikeexperience

$20.00

An unforgettable journey through stunning Mendocino countryside to weird whacky ruins and a real bat cave. This is the one everyone's talking about, trust us you don't want to miss it. Approx two hours

Tentrental

$20.00

We have three pre-pitched tents available to rent if you prefer not to bring your own.

Propanegood

$10.00

We ask that guests using the kitchen contribute toward propane. (One unit covers your entire stay.)

Reviews

100% Recommend45 ratings · 33 reviews

Matt S.

7 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2024

Camping so good I came twice!

Tent

I had the best time with my partner at shimmerback! It was my second time booking and I will definitely be back for more. John showed us around and was super friendly and a great energy to be around. With the hot tub, the hookah lounge, and the moon raft, I couldn’t have asked for a better weekend. All the campers there were also super friendly and fun to hang around. Ben’s communication was prompt and thoughtful, explaining everything in writing before we got there. They installed a new bear proof pantry which was a huge plus. I hate letting the secret of a good camp spot out but shimmerback deserves a 5 star rating!

Samantha A.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

A magical space

Tent

The quote, 'This is the place where everything's better and everyone's safe,' perfectly captures how I feel about Shimmerback. My partner and I had an unforgettable time and are deeply grateful to Ben for sharing this magical place with us. Our hosts, Chelsea and Jon, made the experience truly special, guiding us on a hike through the creek and stargazing in the bed with heated blankets together. Nights spent in the forest, relaxing in the hot tub with new friends, cooking communal meals in the kitchen, and floating on the creek made this weekend so magical. Im already dreaming of coming back here and can't wait to! Thank you so much, Ben!

Colin M.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2024

Lovely camping with amenities

Tent

Lovely quiet space next to a small creek, with a full outdoor kitchen, small hot tub, showers, etc. It allows a great balance between camping and retaining some creature comforts. Close to Wilits, about an hour from Ft. Bragg and the coast, we had a wonderfully relaxing three day stay. Ben and Chas are great, welcoming hosts.

Paul C.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2023

Tent

Ben has an absolutely fantastic setup; almost a glamping scenario depending on the upgrades you choose. We loved our morning soak in the hot tub followed by a cold plunge in the creek adjacent. We were even visited by a busy river otter during our hang in the river. The open-air kitchen is completely stocked—you can leave all your cooking gear at home. The campsites all have a nice mix of sun/shade and have plenty of room for multiple tents. You get to know the other campers coming and going, and Ben cultivates a community vibe. The sound of the adjacent highway is somewhat audible most of the time, so if you want a remote/wild experience this may not be for you. We'll be back for sure!

Vennette V.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2023

Tent · Group trip

We absolutely loved our stay here. Relaxed by the creek at the swimming hole for a long afternoon and explored around the area. Wonderfully maintained property with so many things to do!