Star Route

98%

183 reviews

· Carmel Valley, Monterey, California · 3 acres

Hosted by Jeff M.

Canvas tent

· 2 guests max · 1 toilet

Best glamping: Finalist

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2023.

Jeff is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Romantic

Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is romantic.

The original owner, of this property, Varisto, was a happy go lucky bootlegger back in the day, that welcomed many to try his brew and listen to a song or two on the accordion. He's good neighbor, a famous cowboy artist, Jack Swanson, and he used to have fun fishing out of the river, and sharing a glass or two. One day as Jack was herding his cattle through the area, past Princess Camp, located across the street, he spend a little too long here at Star Route, and to his surprise, the cattle had made their way into Princess Camp startling a few campers outside their airstreams. The Esselen Indians settled just up the road at the Cachagua Community Park back in the 1800's right by the Carmel River, which has an old stone house above the river, and many places to sit and reflect.Nourish yourself in nature in this luxury tent on a piece of property situated near the Los Padres Forest. You can't help but completely relax with the vibe that envelops you as you step foot on the ground, and takes you back to a slice of days gone by. The main house is about 300 feet away from the tent, and you have a beautiful private bathroom close to the tent with an indoor toilet and shower. To one side of the tent is a large picnic table for only you. There is a gas BBQ grill, and an outdoor sink. You'll need to bring your own food supplies, water, and sleeping bags, bedding/linens. The property is completely fenced in, and just a 5 minute walk to the Carmel River, and a 1/4 mile hike to Los Padres Dam. We are 25 minutes from the Carmel Valley Village. There are two other rentals on the property, but each has it's own privacy the way they are situated. There are chickens, and yes, a rooster that make up part of the eclectic farm. We also have one very friendly dog, Ruby, and one cat, Cleo. WiFi is available

What to expect

Canvas tent

You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.

2 guests max

Toilet available

No campfires

No pets

Showers available

Hot water . Private bathroom with shower

Bins available

Compost bin, recycling bin, trash bin

Cooking equipment present

Bbq, private, fridge, freezer, sink or other dishwashing station

Picnic table present

There is a large picnic table right by the side of the tent.

Wifi available

No drinking water

Bring your own water

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 2:00 PM

Check out: Before 12:00 PM

On arrival: Meet with Host

Cancellation policy: Moderate

Minimum nights: 29 nights

Accepts bookings: 12 months out

Park at listing

No wheelchair access

Max 2 vehicles

During your trip

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.

Reviews

98% Recommend226 ratings · 183 reviews

Jeff's campsite is a hit among visitors who appreciate its rustic charm and thoughtful amenities. Guests consistently praise the clean and cozy tents, as well as the hot showers and well-maintained facilities. The interactions with Jeff and his friendly dog Ruby add a personal touch to the stay. While the natural setting offers a peaceful escape, some visitors note the presence of neighborhood noise like barking dogs and early morning roosters.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Brian R.

7 reviews

Recommends

· February 2025

Excellent Hipcamp. Tent was large and cozy, the amenities were well kept, and the environment was wonderful. Jeff was an excellent host and we would definitely go back!

Nikita G.

2 reviews

Recommends

· January 2025

Cute spot for a nature Gateway

We loved our stay at the tent camping. The bathrooms were clean . The directions were clear. It was beautiful to wake up to animal noises and birds . Its a cute spot . It was nice to interact with Jeff and he showed us his old classic car.

Aaron F.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· December 2024

Great place to stay and it's very welcoming. You're away from stuff enough that it's quiet yet close enough that you can go sightseeing. Shower was hot and refreshing after a long day of hiking. Would definitely stay again 10/10.

Jenna R.

5 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· December 2024

Great spot

Jeff has clearly spent years developing his rental areas, with attention to detail, quirky vintage decor, and desirable amenities for folks staying. He has creatively used his acreage to make a cozy space for those of us passing through needing a hot shower and comfortable spot to sleep. I only wish we could see it in the summer, when all of his gardens are in bloom. We were sad to have missed Jeff, as he was also visiting family for the holiday, but his sweet neighbor came and checked on us, along with the online famous Ruby! It was a chilly night, so we cozied up in the outdoor living room with lights and a heater to play cards and listen to some tunes before heading to bed and continuing to the coast for the rest of our trip. The only complaint we have, which is no fault of Jeff’s, is there are LOTS of dogs in the neighborhood that began barking non stop around 11:30 pm that affected our sleep. Our sound machine saved us! Oh, and if you’re coming during cooler months, I highly recommend shower shoes because the floor in there is cold!

Steve E.

2 reviews

Recommends

· November 2024

An Eclectic Oasis in Carmel Valley

Wow! What a great place to hide away for a bit. Carmel Valley and the Quails Nest are great places to unwind and relax. It's a super sweet spot with the sweetest dog as co-host, Ruby! And her co-host, Jeff, is amazing, too. The phrase "a very kind gentleman" comes to mind. Wonderful accommodations include the glamping tent and handy heater, an amazing bathroom with a piping hot shower, and the coolest place to hang out in the living room and dining area. There is even Wi-Fi, which is handy with minimal cell reception. All in all, it was a wonderful stay with an A+ host.