This is a farmhouse loft above the barn, on a ranch in the Northern California gold country. I am conveniently located between Auburn and Placerville CA. Down at the end of my street is one of the trailheads to Cronan Ranch park with miles of trails for horseback riding, biking and hiking, and river rafting. There are several other parks I can recommend!
A great place to get away and be able to have privacy, if that's what you prefer. You are welcome to visit with all the animals on the ranch! I will leave treats for the goats and cows downstairs on the shelf below the stairs.
The loft has a modern rustic decor with a wonderfully comfortable organic hybrid queen size bed and luxurious linens that are dried on outside line during nice weather, for wonderful fresh clean air smell! There is a loveseat that pulls out to a single bed and there is also a fold up floor mat for the littles if needed. There is a Pac N Play for infants as well as a baby gate.
The kitchen is adequately stocked with most things you could need. If there is anything you see missing, please let me know, so it can be added!
There is a shared (with owner) pool for the hotter months behind the main house with access through a side gate by the round pen We strive to give you privacy by the pool!
We also have a large summer garden by the pool, and love to share the organic bounty and with our guests! Please take a stroll through the garden and pick your fresh veggies for your dinner! For more outside time, there is a picnic table, some outdoor furniture under a pergola, and a small propane BBQ and well as small Webber BBQ down by the barn for your use! There’s also have a fire pit and chairs by the barn. Please keep the screen on the fire pit if you choose to use it. There is a S’mores box in the loft for making them at the fire pit!
The ranch loft is private, quiet and the sounds of nature surround you. Guests are welcome to bring up to 2 horses. A small back deck looks out over paddock where guest horses are staying. Room to park one rig. No animals are regularly housed in the barn. No dogs please! My livestock guard dogs love guests but see other animals as predators.
The outside dogs are all friendly with guests. The Anatolians are Teddy, his sister Stella and her daughter Hazel. Hazel often barks at first, but gets accustomed to the guests quickly. I would just ignore her. You may also encounter the bassets, Willow and her daughter Winter!
NEWS FLASH! We have an adorable mini Zebu cow called Fiona and her little sister Frances has joined her! The goats and chickens will run to you for treats and we keep some treats on a shelf in the barn under the stairs. You are welcome to go in with the goats for scratches and rubs…but they get pretty excited about snacks, so I would do that from outside of the fence!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels and store extra beds
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Turn off the lights
Make sure heat or AC is turned off. Leave key on table
Please wash dishes. It’s fine to leave them in the drying rack
Leave bed and just put used towels on the floor in the bathroom
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
I will contact you before your arrival with the arrival information.
Please no smoking anywhere on the property.
Please do NOT feed the baby horses. They can choke
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number 068055
About the area
Pilot Hill
Located in Pilot Hill, this apartment is in a rural area and on a river. Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park and Coloma Schoolhouse are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Auburn State Recreation Area and Mormon Island Wetlands Nature Preserve. River Runners and Wakamatsu Farm are also worth visiting. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and hiking nearby.
Auburn State Recreation Area - 5 min drive - 5.4 km
South Fork of the American River - 9 min drive - 8.9 km
Folsom Lake - 13 min drive - 11.5 km
Henningsen Lotus Park - 13 min drive - 13.5 km
Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park - 15 min drive - 14.9 km
Getting around
Auburn/Conheim Station - 21 min drive
Restaurants
Micks Bar and Grill - 34 min drive
Hermanos Jalisco Grill - 22 min drive
The Station Public House - 19 min drive
Cool Beerwerks - 7 min drive
Taco Tree - 19 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does Private Loft above the barn on horse ranch have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.
How much does it cost to stay at Private Loft above the barn on horse ranch?
As of 7 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private Loft above the barn on horse ranch on 26 Apr 2026 start from £106, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Private Loft above the barn on horse ranch pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Private Loft above the barn on horse ranch?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Private Loft above the barn on horse ranch?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Private Loft above the barn on horse ranch?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Private Loft above the barn on horse ranch located?
Situated on a river, this apartment building is within 9 miles (15 km) of Auburn State Recreation Area, Folsom Lake and Henningsen Lotus Park. Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park and Coloma Schoolhouse are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We loved to barn loft decorated perfectly in country style. Pam was helpful and easy to communicate with. Beautifully quiet setting with trails and river access nearby.
Karen R.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Thank you Karen for coming to stay in the ranch! It was lovely meeting you and your husband! Pam
such a cozy little stay loved the dogs and farm animals as if they were my own. awesome river to float down nearby too and the views were incredible. 10/10 would recommend it!
Verified traveller
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Thanks for coming Megan! It was a pleasure hosting you!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Dawn T.
22 May 2022
Liked: Communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in
The location is absolutely beautiful!
My husband and I really enjoyed our time here! We went on a couple hikes which were really close by and we loved all the animals on the property! The Livestock Guard Dogs greeted us every morning which was so cute! Stella always wanted a belly rub! We often travel to California and would not hesitate to stay here again!
Dawn T.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Thank you Dawn for coming for a stay in the ranch! Hope to see you again in the future!
My husband and I had a weekend away from the kids and decided to stay here. It was great and just what we needed. The owner was very friendly and it was nice being able to walk out of your place and see horses, goats, and other animals.
Samantha W.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Thanks for choosing your get away at the ranch! It was very nice meeting you both!
Great place for a get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
It was fun to watch the horses, ponies, goats, out the bedroom window and from the balcony off the kitchen.
The family that owns the property is very friendly and not at all intrusive.
Overall great location if you're looking for a place to stay and do some rafting.
It was wonderful! The owner sent us suggestions what to feed the horses, goats, cows, etc. The accommodations were perfect for a nice little getaway, where we brought food with us. Our morning coffee was enjoyed by star gazing and identifying planets, then watched the sun rise. Oh…the dogs. They were so loving. Simply beautiful.
A quaint and delightful, country setting with a lot of privacy. The barn loft was beautifully decorated, and the natural scenery of the property and surrounding area was very picturesque. All the animals on the property are friendly and cute to interact with. This is the place to go for a rejuvenation of the soul.
Sean S.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Thank you for your kind words! I just wish it hadn’t rained so much! Glad you enjoyed your stay! Pam
Pam was a wonderful host but the five dogs were the best part of our stay. They recognized our car after the initial meeting and greeted us with big grins. The horses, minis, goats, and chickens were fun too. Nice room in the barn loft that had everything we needed. Only a few miles to Cool and wonderful trails too
Sally W.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Thanks so much for staying on the ranch! It was great meeting you!
My son and I had a great time staying at this cozy lil ranch. We had a great time talking to all the animals and the views were fabulous. Pam was the perfect host, so accommodating and friendly. Thank you Pam for sharing your home with us. We will definitely be returning for another life on the farm adventure.
Mindy L.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Sept 2023
Thanks so much for coming Mindy! I’m so happy you enjoyed your stay on the ranch and do hope to see you again! Pam
We had an amazing stay here! My sister and I brought horses to stay at the property with us. The remodeled barn was so cute great place to stay and everyone was so friendly. She even gave us a map to go and ride out on some trails. and gave us all of her advice on great places to ride. They had a super cute fire pit and even set up the fire for us one of the nights. I could not recommend this place more!!!!
Verified traveller
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Nov 2023
Thanks for coming for a stay on the ranch ladies! It was very nice meeting you and I’m glad you had good weather and rides! Pam
Everything was great, host was accommodating and kind enough to allow my 9 year old daughter to come on trip with me. It was peaceful and she loved visiting with the animals. The place was five star but my only issue was with the ad accuracy that said horse lesson or trail ride possibly available, which due to insurance coverage the host no longer can not loan out horses, which is totally understandable but disappointing at the same time.
Cheri H.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Dec 2024
I’m sorry about not being able to take horses and guests out for trail rides. I hope your adorable daughter enjoyed her lessons with Amie! Pam
Super easy communication with owner. Lovely suite with all the amenities you need. Beautiful surroundings. LOTS of horses, goats, chickens, wild birds, cats and two big but friendly dogs. Super fun. Very California! Lovely host. Definitely recommend.
Tracy B.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
It was a pleasure hosting you and Matt! Only wish the weather had been nicer for your event! Glad you enjoyed your stay in the loft!
The owner and her son where both very friendly and went out of there way to make sure our stay was perfect. There was even a little gift and a card on the table in the loft when I got there, I thought that was a very nice touch. Great place to go and relax and only 30 minutes from Thunder Valley so unfortunately we went and gambled a bit the reason it was unfortunately is because I walked away losing but had a good time. I really enjoyed feeding the animals the horses where definately the most fun to feed. I would definately recomend to any one needing to get away from the hussle and bussle of everyday life. I want to go back after May when there will be a new baby horse.
thegirl n.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Oct 2025
Thank you for coming and staying on the ranch! We do hope to see you again! Sorry about the Thunder Valley loss…I always consider it entertainment, even when I don’t win! 💜 Pam
We had a family reunion in Cool. This lovely property was a real blessing to us. Needed accommodations in an area that's scarce on accommodations and when we found this tiny apartment over a working Barn it made our adventure even more memorable! Very clean and comfortable space with nice privacy. Waking up in the morning to the smell of fresh coffee and Horses was an enjoyable experience!! Thank you Pam for making your great place available!!Tons of character.
corey e.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
I’m glad you found some reprieve and relaxation on your busy family trip! Hope to see you in the future!
I recently stayed at the loft with my husband and daughter (age 8), and it was an absolute delight! From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the serene ambiance of the farm and the warm hospitality of the hosts. Our daughter was thrilled to have the opportunity to help with farm chores and even had a riding lesson, which was a highlight of her trip. The loft itself was cozy and inviting and it was great being so close to the animals (including a 2 week old baby goat)! We enjoyed spending time with all the animals on the farm, from feeding treats to the goats and horses to meeting all of the farm dogs. We can't wait to return for another memorable getaway!
Kimberly E.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 May 2024
Thank you so much for coming to the ranch for a stay! It was so great meeting you all! Hope to see you again! Pam
Barn loft and horse and dog property are lovely. We really enjoyed it and recommend it to animal lovers especially.
Verified traveller
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Thank you so much for coming!
Verified
8/10 Good
Allison
10 Oct 2021
Liked: Amenities, communication
Beautiful piece of property with horses, goats, chickens and 4 dogs, who were all friendly and awesome, even with kids.
The dogs are there to protect the other animals so they do bark a lot at night. If you’re a light sleeper looking for somewhere quiet, this may not be it.
The loft was really pretty and the bed was very comfortable.
We loved the studio over the barn and the views. We were there for a wedding at a winery.. The animals were awesome. I would recommend this place to anyone, who love the piece and quiet and animals ..
Kristy L.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Thank you Kristy! It was a pleasure to host you and your husband! Pam
Was in need of real rest but the ranch dogs kept me up all night with their barking (doing their job, but should be a caveat in description). Little extras in a space are nice but only if they work - dead batteries in the mantel lighting and the blue tooth speaker wasn't charged and had no charger in room. Wouldn't call the kitchen "well stocked" - bring oil, seasonings. Some pans and utensils were covered in grease.
Julia N.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Hi Julia. I’m sorry that you didn’t feel your stay was adequate. We work very hard to have a super clean environment, but unfortunately sometimes guests don’t wash something perfectly that we don’t see. We strive to look ER lean anything that doesn’t look perfect.
Thanks for telling me about the lights and charger…I will track those things down. We do keep a lot of spices and olive oil in the loft. If there was no oil, then I apologize for that. We try to keep that for cooking the fresh eggs we give to our guests.
As for the dogs barking….it was actually my neighbors dog from across the street, which we have addressed with him. My daughter in law got home late from work and said my dogs were all in the deck, other than the puppy Hazel, who sleeps under my bed! Pam
My daughter is horse obsessed so this was a wonderful treat for her. The studio above the barn was absolutely perfect and really well done. The host was incredible and attentive. She gave some great recommendations on river spots and where to do a trail ride.
We had a great time on this scenic horse farm. The barn loft apartment was perfect and had everything we could possibly need for our stay. It was very clean and the fresh eggs were delicious. My two daughters loved the goats, horses and pool. It was perfectly located for horseback riding and whitewater rafting. Thanks so much for having us we had so much fun!!!
Katie O.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Thank you Katie! So happy you enjoyed the stay and rafting!
We had the most amazing experience this weekend. Loved the property, so
Much character, loved the animals and just being so close to nature. Pam was super friendly and the small details were appreciated! Fresh eggs and a bottle of white wine chilled in the frig was a welcome surprise! It was clean, safe and quiet. Super relaxing! Close to great trails and wineries. River was easy to access -from a close by trail as well. We definitely will be back! Our 10 year old son can’t stop taking about the horses and goats! Just a wonderful time! Really peaceful and rejuvenating!
Anamarie M.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Thank you for your kind words Anamarie. It was lovely meeting your sweet family and I’m glad your little man enjoyed the animals! He was very cute with the goats!
About the host
Hosted by Pam Higgins
I am a retired Certified Nurse Midwife that after 30 years working in Napa, I was able to move up here to the foothills in December 2015. I completed the conversion of the barn loft into a studio apartment. My time is spent enjoying my ranch, the animals, swimming, gardening and riding. I love to meet new people but can also give guests their privacy if that’s what they prefer! I love ranch life and all the animals and hope guests will too!
Why they chose this property
The ranch is quiet and the barn loft is very private, with the sounds of nature. You may see Canadian Geese landing in the pasture to rest, as well as turkeys and sometimes the sound of cows at the fence. In addition to horses, we also have goats and chickens, 2 mini cows, along with 3 big and very friendly livestock guard dogs, Teddy and Stella and Stella’s daughter Hazel. They keep away the coyotes and other predators while they work at nite and pretty much sleep all day! During summer you may hear the Cal Fire radio which is down the street from me, but they don’t make any noise at night. It makes me feel very safe having them so close by and am hoping will give you the same sense of security!
What makes this property unique
June 2025 - we have 4 goat babies to play with. You are welcome to hold them and pet them! The area has much to do for outdoor enthusiasts so bring your bikes or boat or horses! There are miles of hiking trails with river access, as well as river rafting not far from me. I’m about half way between Auburn and Placerville with many nice restaurants and antique shops. I’m also close to Coloma where you can see what it was like in the gold rush days. Very close by we have a few restaurants in Cool, as well as a nice grocery store and a few close by coffee places.
Languages:
English, Spanish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests