Willits, California
Shimmerback Ranch

About Shimmerback Ranch
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.
Accommodations on the property
- Tent platform
Location
Willits, California
Open in Google MapsWhat people say about their stay at Shimmerback Ranch
Synthesized from 39 review mentions across 6 aspects.
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Setting & Nature
“Shimmerback Ranch is a serene and well-maintained destination that offers a blend of relaxation and community vibes. Guests appreciate the fully stocked kitchen, the wood-fired hot…”
11 mentions
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Amenities
“completely stocked—you can leave all your cooking gear at home”
8 mentions
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Host & Communication
“Visitors consistently praise Ben and his team for their warm hospitality and attentiveness. The hosts' dedication to creating a welcoming and accommodating atmosphere makes a lasti…”
8 mentions
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Comfort & Sleep
“great balance between camping and retaining some creature comforts”
6 mentions
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Bathroom
“the flush toilet was a welcome addition”
3 mentions
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Value for Price
“cooking communal meals in the kitchen”
3 mentions
Gallery





Recent reviews
[hipcamp aggregate summary]
this was so magical and amazing. will definitely be coming again soon
My family & I love this place and are hoping to make a visit to SBR an annual occurrence! It's truly a one of a kind place filled with magic. ✨
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!
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…
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.
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Shimmerback Ranch located?
Shimmerback Ranch is located in Willits, California.
What types of accommodations does Shimmerback Ranch offer?
Shimmerback Ranch offers Tent platform. Specifics vary — verify the exact unit availability with the operator before booking.
How is Shimmerback Ranch rated?
Shimmerback Ranch has a 5/5 rating from 38 reviews on aggregate. Ratings reflect aggregate sentiment from public review platforms; we don't moderate operator reviews.
How do I book Shimmerback Ranch?
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