Highboy Ranch

For Colorado locals seeking a truly unique and private camping experience away from the bustling crowds of larger campgrounds, Highboy Ranch in Bailey offers an intriguing option. This isn't a traditional, highly developed campground, but rather a distinctive Hipcamp site that provides a more intimate and personal connection with the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. If you're looking for stunning views, proximity to excellent hiking and charming mountain towns, and a quiet retreat where you can unwind, Highboy Ranch presents a compelling choice for your next outdoor adventure in Colorado.

Highboy Ranch stands out for its serene setting and the personalized touch often associated with host-managed camping experiences. While designed primarily for tent and smaller RV camping, it promises a secluded feel, allowing campers to truly disconnect and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and the welcoming nature of the host, creating an environment that feels both adventurous and hospitable. It’s a place that appeals to those who appreciate a less commercialized camping style, offering a quiet base from which to explore the vast outdoor wonders that define the Colorado experience. This distinctive approach to camping can provide a refreshing change of pace for those accustomed to more conventional campground settings.

Highboy Ranch is located at 308 Wagon Tongue Rd, Bailey, CO 80421, USA. This address places it within the picturesque mountain community of Bailey, nestled in Park County, Colorado. Bailey is renowned for its scenic beauty, offering a classic Colorado mountain town vibe while remaining relatively accessible from the greater Denver metropolitan area. The drive to Highboy Ranch itself is part of the experience, winding through forested landscapes and providing glimpses of the majestic Rockies that surround the area.

Accessibility to Highboy Ranch is important to note, as reviews indicate specific characteristics of the property. The driveway leading to the camping site is unpaved and can be steep, suggesting that while many vehicles should be fine, those with very low clearance or heavy, non-4WD trailers might find it challenging. It's described as suitable for "tent and small RV camping," with a specific mention that it's "perfect for a tent but NOT trailer" if referring to larger units like an 18ft Aliner, implying that careful consideration of your vehicle and rig size is advisable. However, its close proximity to the charming town of Bailey means that essential services, local eateries, and unique shops are just a short drive away, offering convenience despite the secluded feel of the ranch itself. This balance makes it an attractive option for locals who want a mountain escape that isn't too far off the beaten path for resupply or a quick town visit.

As a private Hipcamp site, Highboy Ranch offers a more minimalist yet intimate camping experience. The services provided are designed to enhance a rustic stay while ensuring basic comforts in a natural setting. It's important for potential visitors to understand these offerings to align with their camping expectations.

• Designated Camping Area: The site offers a specific, private flat spot for camping, whether for a tent or a small RV. This privacy is a key feature, allowing campers to enjoy solitude away from other groups.
• Camp Toilet: A basic camp toilet is provided, typically located within a plastic tent for privacy. This offers a convenient and accessible restroom solution for campers on-site.
• Solar Shower (Upon Request): A solar shower is available, though guests may need to request it from the host. This offers a refreshing, albeit rustic, bathing option.
• Water Access: Hot and cold water is available at the host's outdoor spigot, not directly at the campsite. Campers should plan to bring containers for transporting water to their site.
• Host Interaction: The experience is often characterized by interaction with the host. Reviews mention the host being "friendly," "hilarious," and "very hospitable," sometimes even offering unique experiences like rides in his Bronco or Razor. This personal touch can greatly enhance the stay for many visitors.
• Pet-Friendly: While not explicitly stated in the provided reviews, Hipcamp listings often indicate whether pets are allowed. Given the private, rustic nature of the site, it's generally conducive to responsible pet owners, but confirmation upon booking is always recommended.

Highboy Ranch offers a selection of features and highlights that contribute to its distinctive charm and appeal, particularly for those seeking a unique and private outdoor getaway in Colorado. These elements are what make it a memorable experience for many who visit.

• Stunning Mountain Views: A consistent highlight, the ranch offers "beautiful scenery" and "amazing views." Nestled down below the host's house, the campsite provides a vista of trees and a distant pond, creating a tranquil and picturesque backdrop for your stay. This natural beauty is a significant draw for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Colorado's landscape.
• Secluded and Quiet Location: The campsite is described as "very quiet" and private. This seclusion is a major benefit for those seeking a true escape from noise and crowds, allowing for peaceful relaxation and a deeper connection with nature. It's an ideal spot for unwinding and de-stressing.
• Proximity to Outdoor Activities: The ranch is "close to many hiking trails, waterfalls," providing ample opportunities for exploration and adventure. This means campers have easy access to some of Colorado's best natural attractions, allowing for days filled with outdoor pursuits right from their base camp.
• Charming Nearby Town of Bailey: The campground's location near the "cute little town" of Bailey is another significant highlight. Visitors can explore local events, like "Bailey days," and enjoy the small-town charm, local eateries, and unique shops, offering a blend of wilderness and community experiences.
• Unique Host Interaction: As a Hipcamp site, the experience is often enhanced by the host, Larry. Reviews describe him as "hilarious" and "very hospitable," even teaching guests about machinery or taking them on "short rock crawling on his property" in his Bronco. This personalized and sometimes adventurous interaction adds a memorable and distinctive dimension to the stay.
• Accommodates Tent and Small RVs: While not for large rigs, the ability to accommodate both tents and smaller RVs/campervans (like a "20 ft campervan") provides flexibility for different camping styles, ensuring a comfortable spot for many types of adventurers.

For specific inquiries, availability, or to book a stay at Highboy Ranch, it is primarily managed through platforms like Hipcamp. Direct communication with the host is typically facilitated through these booking platforms once a reservation is made or inquired about.

Address: 308 Wagon Tongue Rd, Bailey, CO 80421, USA

As this is a private property listing on a camping platform, there isn't a publicly listed direct phone number for Highboy Ranch itself, as communication usually goes through the Hipcamp platform. For any questions before booking, it's recommended to utilize Hipcamp's messaging system to contact the host directly. During a stay, the host's contact details would typically be provided upon arrival or through the booking platform.

Highboy Ranch in Bailey is an excellent choice for Colorado locals seeking a distinct and serene outdoor experience that feels both remote and accessible. For those living along the Front Range, its location offers a manageable drive, allowing for quick escapes into the mountains without requiring extensive travel. This convenience is a significant advantage for weekend trips, ensuring more time spent enjoying nature and less time on the road.

What makes Highboy Ranch particularly suitable for locals is its emphasis on privacy and its unique, host-led experience. It’s perfect for campers who prefer a quieter, less commercialized setting than large, crowded campgrounds. The "beautiful scenery" and "very quiet" atmosphere create an ideal environment for unwinding and reconnecting with nature, a vital component of the Colorado lifestyle. The proximity to local hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and the charming town of Bailey means that both adventure and local culture are within easy reach, offering a well-rounded getaway.

While the accessibility notes regarding the unpaved, steep driveway are crucial for potential visitors with larger trailers, for tent campers and those with smaller RVs or campervans, Highboy Ranch offers a truly memorable and highly recommended private spot. The personal touches from the host, described as "hilarious" and "very hospitable," often lead to unique and unforgettable moments, transforming a simple camping trip into a personalized adventure. For Colorado residents looking for a tranquil, scenic, and uniquely engaging camping experience, Highboy Ranch provides a compelling and highly suitable option for embracing the state's natural beauty and independent spirit.

Highboy Ranch

308 Wagon Tongue Rd, Bailey, CO 80421, USA