Laid Back Manor Farm

97%

17 reviews

· Ainsworth Hot Springs, Central Kootenay, British Columbia · 7 acres

Hosted by Jason B.

RV/tent site

· 8 guests max

Jason is a Star Host

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

All to yourself

100% of recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp felt private.

There was a dream......come visit to learn more!! Current update: Wildfires are no longer an immediate concern and the river is HIGH so diving boards and the wild beauty of August by the mighty Coopersippi are in FULL EFFECT!!! The site is quiet and private and you likely won't see another human unless you go wandering. The hiking on our 7 acres is brilliant fun, with trails all over - riverside and beyond with excellent trails 5 minutes to 40 or more away - enjoy solo or take guided tours with yours truly at reasonable, negotiable rates. I do have a 'day job' so you may not see much of me depending on when you book. Wander all morning and shoot longbow all afternoon on the target range. A day well spent!! There are so many options for outdoor fun here. Canoeing, hiking, swimming, fishing, and archery totally do-able if these are up your alley. My chef skills are at the disposal of guests as usual, upon request. With 12 years of industry experience as a 'back house line cook and chef de partie' I can provide an exceptional meal anytime you need to refuel. It's peaceful and 'laid back' beyond measure here in Summer - and there's always a cool dip in the river if guests feel like cooling off. Grayson (your host) has traveled the world many times over, in many countries, and is also a 4rth generation local in the Kaslo/Kootenay area - an Aussie Canadian and something of a paradox!! So conversation is never boring around here - especially when the mead comes out (made in house and seasonally available). SKOL!!! Now with some of the more year-round details and facts about the area... It's a 'laid back farm' because despite working the land every day, we try not to push too hard and take it easy enough to enjoy the place. There's prime wildlife viewing by the river and in 'Deerhaven' the forested area down there. The focus is on nature here, so please no quads or dirtbikes ripping around - the "Duncan Lake highway" is just up the road for that sort of thing!! Mosquitoes can be bad at certain peak dates (which change yearly according to conditions), but I'll have the bug tent set up by the river for escape if anyone needs it^^ The 'farm' aspect and focus is all on gardens, orchards, and landscaping, no livestock/animals except Mr.Finnegan the Aussie red heeler^^ Things keep changing, and bees are a long-term goal once the orchard is more developed. There is wildcrafting available with a variety of native flora and a free tour to describe what's in season if you'd like to pick your own. The river level is controlled by the Duncan Dam, and at a high level, there's a private diving board and deck space riverside which is also an amazing place to tan, do yoga, or just relax. At low water the fishing is good and there are good size bull trout in there!! There are trails through forested areas on the property and a new outhouse between the mill shed and river. The riverside area is a wildlife corridor so be prepared to see deer, bears, eagles, osprey, wild turkeys, kingfishers, cedar waxwings, mountain bluebirds, the odd rare coyote/cougar, and possibly elk among others!! Generally, it's pretty quiet, but there are days...... If bears are a concern and you'd rather not have the possibility, camp closer to the mill shed, no worries. All the animals stick close to the river. There's never been any drama with the wildlife and we live in harmony here. The odd grizzly bear shows up, and we keep a close eye on them and take logical precautions. Please be bear aware..... August and September are high alert for grizzly bears as the Kokanee (inland salmon) spawn in the river right here!! So schools of redfish will be swimming around down there - they don't eat while spawning and they're protected, but it's quite a sight to see. The grizzlies tend to head straight to the spawning channel upriver to gorge and we rarely see any here, but it is wise to be aware of the possibility. The river is perfect for swimming and diving in high water, but very cold (glacial runoff) which is amazingly refreshing, but don't count on being in it for hours. There's a ladder for a convenient exit from the water and the diving board is perfect!! There's loads of space for tents down by the river, and a glorious 'sacred grove' full of elderberry trees that's quite a breathtaking tent site. The mill shed has standpipes with clean running water from the well, and it's about the cleanest, freshest water on Earth. Glorious. If you need electricity for charging devices it's available at the cabin, as well as wifi. No wifi by the river, sorry, totally off-grid down there and will remain so. There's also a '9 hole' archery course if this is of interest, max.50# draw and longbows only, please. You're welcome to use the targets free of charge if you're staying the night. As a semi-retired chef, writer, musician, farmer, English teacher, entrepreneur and revolutionary, your host can offer impressive gourmet meals to feed body and soul - made with local organic ingredients and great conscious awareness at an agreed-upon price according to your needs. The garden is full of organic veggies, and there may be fresh venison or wild turkey if you're here in the fall. Please no hunting and no guns if you are a guest. There are amazing day and multi-day hikes within minutes or hours drive, and as a local of many years, your host can provide excellent advice and directions. Grayson and Finnegan look forward to meeting you and seeing to it that you're well situated and outfitted for a good time in the Canadian Outback!! Looking for a quiet, peaceful, private wilderness retreat? This place is rrreally beautiful and I'm looking forward to hosting for another glorious year of laid back wilderness camping. Cheers to all of you and HAPPY TRAILS!! Summer is here!!! Honestly, it's like a paradise out there right now, and I'm happy to share if people are looking for a place to stay. The unusually heavy rains of spring have made it very 'rainforesty' down by the river, and there are few mosquitoes so far - so it really is a beautiful time to camp. The water in the river is still a little silty, but should clear up completely any day now. I dip in there regardless when I'm working, as it's unbelievably refreshing. I've been so busy getting the garden in, this is my first chance to update the page. There's awesome tent camping and a private space to pull in an RV with water and electricity hookups available, and a clean, private, new outhouse just down the trail. Grayson and Finnegan are happy to host and offer up all the space/assistance you require on your journey. Happy Trails!!! It is possible to run electricity down there if you're in a camper, but rustic tenting is also a fine thing!! Fires are welcome just beyond the millshed campsite, and dry excellent wood is available (cedar, fir, and cottonwood) for $10/night, as much as you need. The site is private and you likely won't see another human unless you go wandering. There are trails all over - riverside and beyond through neighboring farmlands - enjoy solo or take guided tours with yours truly at reasonable, negotiable rates. Hike all morning and shoot longbow all afternoon on the target range. A day well spent!! There are many options for outdoor fun here in this season. Canoeing, hiking, and archery are all totally do-able if these are up your alley. My chef skills are at the disposal of guests as usual, upon request. With 12 years of industry experience as a 'back house line cook and chef de partie' I can provide an exceptional meal anytime you need to refuel. My soups and food prep. down at Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort have been getting rave reviews. It's peaceful and 'laid back' beyond measure here in summertime - and there's always a cool dip in the river if guests feel like cooling off. Grayson (your host) has traveled the world many times over, in many countries, and is also a 4rth generation local in the Kaslo/Kootenay area - an Aussie Canadian and something of a paradox!! So conversation is never boring around here - especially when the mead comes out (made in house and seasonally available). SKOL!!! Now with some of the more year-round details and facts about the area... It's a 'laid back farm' because despite working the land every day, we try not to push too hard and take it easy enough to enjoy the place. There's prime wildlife viewing by the river and in 'Deerhaven' the forested area down there. The 'farm' aspect and focus is all on gardens, orchards, and landscaping, no livestock/animals except Mr.Finnie Finnegan Finnbutts, the Aussie red heeler. Things keep changing, and bees are a long-term goal once the orchard is more developed. There is wildcrafting available with a variety of native flora and a free tour to describe what's in season if you'd like to pick your own. The river level is controlled by the Duncan Dam, and at a high level, there's a private diving board and deck space riverside which is also an amazing place to tan, do yoga, or just relax. At low water the fishing is good and there are good size bull trout in there!! There are trails through forested areas on the property and a new outhouse between the mill shed and river. The riverside area is a wildlife corridor so be prepared to see deer, bears, eagles, osprey, wild turkeys, kingfishers, cedar waxwings, mountain bluebirds, the odd rare coyote/cougar, and possibly elk among others!! Generally, it's pretty quiet, but there are days...... If bears are a concern and you'd rather not have the possibility, camp closer to the mill shed, no worries. All the animals stick close to the river. There's never been any drama with the wildlife and we live in harmony here. That said, please be bear aware!! August and September are high alert for grizzly bears as the Kokanee (inland salmon) spawn in the river right here!! So schools of redfish will be swimming around down there - they don't eat while spawning and they're protected, but it's quite a sight to see. The grizzlies tend to head straight to the spawning channel upriver to gorge and we rarely see any here, but it is wise to be aware of the possibility. The river is perfect for swimming and diving in high water, but very cold (glacial runoff) which is amazingly refreshing, but don't count on being in it for hours. There's a ladder for a convenient exit from the water and the diving board is perfect!! There's loads of space for tents down by the river, and a glorious 'sacred grove' full of elderberry trees that's quite a breathtaking tent site. The mill shed has standpipes with clean running water from the well, and it's about the cleanest, freshest water on Earth. Glorious. If you need electricity for charging devices it's available at the cabin, as well as wifi. No wifi by the river, sorry, totally off-grid down there and will remain so. There's also a '9 hole' archery course if this is of interest, max.50# draw and longbows only, please. You're welcome to use the targets free of charge if you're staying the night. As a semi-retired chef, writer, musician, farmer, English teacher, entrepreneur and revolutionary, your host can offer impressive gourmet meals to feed body and soul - made with local organic ingredients and great conscious awareness at an agreed-upon price according to your needs. The garden is full of organic veggies, and there may be fresh venison or wild turkey if you're here in the fall. Please no hunting and no guns if you are a guest. There are amazing day and multi-day hikes within minutes or hours drive, and as a local of many years, your host can provide excellent advice and directions, possibly even guided tours if you're here at the right time of year!! Happy Hip-Camping!! Grayson and Finnegan look forward to meeting you and seeing to it that you're well situated and outfitted for a good time in the Canadian Outback!!

RV details

Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Pop-up campers, Campervans, and Cars allowed

Vehicles under 50 feet allowed

Pull-in site

Accommodates slideouts

Surface type: Grass or field

Surface levelness: Flat

No Class A RVs, Class B RVs, and Class C RVs

Electrical hookup available

It's a looooong stretch from the Manor to the mill shed, so you may lose a bit of amperage, but standard household voltage by extension cord is possible for campers. If all you're doing is charging devices, feel free to use the GFCI plug on the back deck - EASY PEAZY. If you require ongoing power in your site, this can be arranged.

Water hookup available

No sewage hookup

No TV hookup

Generators not allowed

What to expect

RV/tent site

You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.

8 guests max

Campfires allowed

Firewood provided, firepit, communal, private. Rules change with the seasons, and I'm always up to date on them. Firewood may be provided if it's available, again, this is entirely seasonal.

Toilet available

Composting toilet. New outhouse

Pets allowed

On leash. Bears chase loose dogs, and this is not a good thing. No packs of 50 animals please!! If you have a single pet, they're most welcome as long as they're kept under relative control. My Finnegan is a well-mannered, well-loved 8 month old pup and he's on/off leash periodically throughout the day, always under supervision.

Potable water available

Tap, hose, pump or well

Showers available

Hot water , cold water only. Outdoor shower and river dips on site!! 10 minutes drive to the LVCC (Lardeau Valley Community Center) - a clean, well maintained facility with HOT SHOWERS!! ($5)

Wifi available

Cabin and surrounding area only, no wifi in the camping area by the river, which is and will remain a totally off-grid space for wildlife and campers!!

Pack it out

Pack it in, pack it out, thanks, and be bear aware!! Limiting and/or properly dealing with 'attractants' is a big part of life in this country.

Cooking equipment absent

Your host is a former chef - full meals made with seasonal local organic materials may be available if you'd like. Otherwise pack in what you like!!

Picnic table absent

There are tables that could be co-opted if needed^^

Laundry absent

10 Minutes drive to the LVCC (community center) coin slot machines available, one washer, one dryer - bring loonies and quarters!!

Hot Tub absent

We're working on this option and hope to make it available for next season - so thanks for staying with us!! Every hipcamper $ helps us make the dream more of a reality, and we're stoked to share it with you.

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: 1 night

Accepts bookings: 12 months out

Park at listing

Wheelchair accessible

Max 1 vehicle

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.

Reviews

97% Recommend19 ratings · 17 reviews

Collin K.

7 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2024

Peaceful and beautiful

17 ft campervan

We had an amazing night at Laid Back Manor Farm! Beautiful scenery and an excellent host! Jason was kind and very knowledgeable of the area. We felt very comfortable. We woke up and watched the beautiful river flow right next to camp. A bald eagle swooped down and caught a salmon right in front of us. It was pretty amazing! Would definitely recommend staying here for a peaceful place surrounded by beauty. Plenty of things to do in the area.

Shannon S.

7 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2024

40 ft fifth wheel · With kids

Magic lives here. The river full of red fish (an August/early September special) stunning mountain surroundings, star gazing gallore, a beautiful meal and beautiful conversation, and space and privacy in nature that fed our souls. Jason was the perfect host, and direct from my kids, the coolest farmer ever. Couldn't recommend enough, and the whole area has so much to offer, our favorite stop in BC yet ❤️ Thank you Jason!

Patricia D.

2 reviews

Recommends

· August 2024

Colorful campground.

21 ft campervan

We loved staying with Jason. He is very nice and takes his time to show you around. It’s a beautiful camping spot just beside the river. You are all on your own and it is quiet. Paul & Patricia Diek.

Mel R.

6 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

Lightening crashes

Tent · With kids

We stayed during a wicked thunder storm and loved it. Jason has a great set up, friendly dog and was very accommodating. Showed us his favorite spots to sit by the river and checked in after our stay to make sure we made it home to ontario.

Simi B.

2 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

Camping in the Kootenays

15 ft travel trailer

Genuinely great place to stay at Laid Back Farm Manor. Right in the river and the silence and privacy was the best. Jason was a great host and knew all the right places to adventure, no matter what your preferences. Highly recommend and would

Kerry O.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2023

Laid Back, As Advertised

28 ft campervan · With pets

As advertised, it's laid back. There's no bells and whistles, but then there's no need with such a quiet, calm place to set up camp. We drove our rig down to the river side camping space where we enjoyed privacy and watched the Kokanee salmon jumping in the river.

Location

Ainsworth Hot Springs, Central Kootenay, British Columbia, CanadaTraditional, ancestral territory of Ktunaxa ɁamakɁis, snʕickstx tmxʷúlaʔxʷ (Sinixt), Ĩyãħé Nakón mąkóce (Stoney), Syilx (Okanagan), and Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation First Nations according to

Native Land Digital.

To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking