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Retreat with Views and modern comfort near Kirkwood Ski, wineries, gold country

your current months are December, 2024 and January, 2025.
December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for Retreat with Views and modern comfort near Kirkwood Ski, wineries, gold country

Exterior
Property grounds
Smart TV, fireplace, video games, DVD player
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Terrace/patio

Reviews

9.8 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 10279 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Gym
    Gym
  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioning
  • Fireplace
    Fireplace

Explore the area

Map
Volcano, CA
  • Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park
    11 min drive
  • Black Chasm Cavern National Landmark
    11 min drive
  • Mace Meadows Golf Course
    20 min drive
  • Placerville, CA (PVF)
    68 min drive

Room options

Similar properties

About the area

Volcano

Located in Volcano, this vacation home is in the mountains, within a 15-minute drive of Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park and Black Chasm Cavern National Landmark. .This family-friendly vacation home is 9.8 mi (15.8 km) from Pioneer City Park and 11 mi (17.7 km) from Mace Meadows Golf Course.

What's nearby

  • Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park - 11 min drive - 8.9 km
  • Black Chasm Cavern National Landmark - 11 min drive - 8.7 km
  • Pioneer City Park - 19 min drive - 15.8 km
  • Mace Meadows Golf Course - 20 min drive - 17.8 km
  • Jackson Rancheria Casino - 27 min drive - 21.7 km

Getting around

  • Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF) - 102 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Las Minas Mexican Restaurant - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪O K Corral - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Beefys Burger - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Volcano Union Inn - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Munnerlyn's Ice Creamery - ‬15 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Retreat with Views and modern comfort near Kirkwood Ski, wineries, gold country

Get away with sweeping views of pine and valley from the comfort of your living room and bedrooms. Enjoy a newly re-modeled modern interior in a cabin atmosphere. Bear Family Ranch is only a 2 hour drive from the Bay Area but feels a world away. And oh, the stars at night! You must see it to believe it.

From the Ranch, you can continue uphill 30 minutes to reach alpine lakes for boating and fishing. Or drive downhill 10 minutes to go caving at Black Chasm Cavern and enjoy the Gold Rush town of Volcano, once 5000 miners strong. Drive downhill an additional 20 minutes to Sutter Creek and Jackson for wine tasting and antique hunting. Want to have a lazy day instead? Take a stroll on the hiking trails directly on our property and relax while watching deer, woodpeckers and birds of prey. Get cozy in front of the signature fireplace or fire up the 70” TV for a movie night to be remembered.

Bear Family Ranch can accommodate 2-3 families comfortably:
* 4 bedrooms, 3 baths
* Three rooms with queen beds and views, one room with two twin beds, sleeps 8 total
* Panoramic windows in the living room
* Fireplace
* 70” flat screen with Chrome-cast, DVDs provided
* Free high speed internet
* Gourmet kitchen with granite counters
* Large wrap-around deck
* Yoga room adjoining the Master bedroom, with deck access

In the winter, easily reach the ranch on a Friday night without having to drive through heavy snow. The ranch is located just above the snow line and gets 2-3 inches of snow, so roads to it are always open. The next morning when the traffic subsides, roads clear, and the sun is shining, make the drive up to Kirkwood for awesome boarding and skiing. The non-boarders and non-skiers in your party can enjoy the sweeping views and all that Gold Country has to offer.

In the summer, live in the center of outdoor activity. Stay on the ranch for short hikes, lazing around and stargazing; or drive 30 min uphill to alpine lakes for fishing, boating, hiking and kayaking. Caving is only 10 minutes away, while within 30 minutes you can find whitewater rafting on the Mokulumne (self-guided), historical tours of gold country, wine tasting and shows at the Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort.


Tips about the rooms:

There are three levels. The main level has the wrap-around deck and views, kitchen, fireplace, living room, master bedroom, twin-bed bedroom, and two bathrooms. One of the bathrooms is shared between the twin-bed bedroom and the bedroom upstairs, which has the best view but can be colder in the winter and warmer in the summer. A space heater and many blankets are provided.

The lower ‘walk-out basement’ level enjoys the view as well, and has a living room with a wood stove and 70” TV, a bedroom and an adjoining bathroom. The couch is a pull-out.
Make yourself comfortable in this air-conditioned vacation home, which features a fireplace and a Smart TV. There's a private balcony. A kitchen is outfitted with a refrigerator, an oven, and a stovetop. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and a DVD player is provided for your entertainment.
Enjoy the recreation opportunities such as a fitness center or make use of other amenities including an arcade/game room.
Guests will find features like internet access and onsite parking.

Property manager

Connie and Eric (owners)

Languages

English

Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing and snowboarding nearby

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • On-site parking
  • Car required

Kitchen

  • Fridge
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Spices
  • Toaster
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Paper towels

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Bath or shower
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Hairdryer
  • Towels provided
  • Toilet paper

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Dining room
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Smart TV
  • Table football
  • Games room
  • Video games
  • DVD player
  • Video library
  • Games
  • Stereo
  • Books
  • Music library

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Outdoor furniture

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have any requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Wheelchair-accessible
  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: No smoking anywhere on the property please

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In the mountains
  • In a rural location
  • Near a hospital

Things to do

  • Fitness centre
  • Power boating nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Winery tours nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Waterskiing nearby
  • Cave exploring nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 3000 sq ft (279 sq m)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed
Note from host: No pets as we are allergic to cats and dogs.

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: The ranch is a great place for kids to roam.

Important information

You need to know

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Paid guests only. Or clear with us ahead of time.
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is required for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

Kirkwood Ski Cabin Charm With Modern Comforts Sweeping Views
Kirkwood Ski Cabin Charm Modern Comforts Sweeping Views House
Kirkwood Ski Cabin Charm Modern Comforts Sweeping Views Volcano
Kirkwood Ski Cabin Charm Modern Comforts Sweeping Views
Kirkwood Ski Cabin Charm With Views Modern Comforts
Kirkwood Ski Cabin Charm With Views Modern Comforts
Kirkwood Ski Cabin Charm With Modern Comforts Sweeping Views

Retreat with Views and modern comfort near Kirkwood Ski, wineries, gold country Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 33 out of 37 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 37 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 37 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 37 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 37 reviews" "

9.6/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Sam K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peace and tranquility
The house was fantastic, tons of space, very secluded and private. Connie was awesome and very responsive with all of our inquiries. We can’t wait to return to The Bear Family ranch…
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Henry K.

The house was enjoyable but the property needs fire fuel abatement
The house has a “quirky” floor plan but is comfortable and provides everything you need in the kitchen and baths. What was uncomfortable, given our current fire season, was the over grown landscape. The house is surrounded by tall dry grass and has an abundance of fuel in pine cones and needles, old outbuildings and dying trees.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

kevin J.

Family dance
Great views, close to the dance grounds
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Unplug and relax with these views
This was a cozy and comfortable home with amazing views. We enjoyed big kitchen and outdoor eating.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Travis S., Sebastopol

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful House
The Bear Family Ranch house was fantastic and perfect for our group. Everything was as advertised and the communication with the owners was great whenever a questions did come up. Our group of eight fit snugly yet spaciously into the space and we truly enjoyed our time there. My only critical feedback would be that the kitchen items need a serious update. There weren't any wine glasses or really many glasses at all so we were drinking out of coffee mugs, and most of the good kitchen equipment was locked away in an "Owners Only" cabinet. As a big cooking group, we were sad to not have access to these items. I suggest a run to Costco or Ikea and a few dollar spent on some kitchen wares. The takeaway-If you are really into cooking and somewhat local, bring the times you wish to have along with you. Overall, the property was perfect we certainly hope to be back!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect house for our needs!
I am the teacher at a small outdoor/nature school made up of homeschooled kids. We wanted to take our 7 fifth graders on a Gold Country field trip, but our group is too small for conventional school trips. This was the perfect house for our needs! We had 7 kids ages 10-11 and 3 adults. We were able to cook and prepare all of our meals in the house, and comfortably sleep everyone, as well as have plenty of space for rest and relaxation, and fun! It even snowed on our 2nd night. So magical! The hosts were very responsive and we could not have asked for a better stay! I may bring my own grown kids back for a stay at some point and explore the area.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kristine L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Love this plave
Our family loved staying at your house. The kids loved all the different bedrooms and playing games on the TV downstairs. We loved the open backyard and hiking in the area. We wished it snowed but the kids had so much fun at the house, they didn’t want to drive to the snow. Only negative was we wished there was a washer/dryer. Other than that, it was a great place to go.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

John S.

Liked: Cleanliness
An out of the way stay
Extended family stayed here for several days to get out of the house and take in some new scenery. Had a good time.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Katy D.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Views are Amazing
Very nice property and the house is clean
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jill M., Modesto

Liked: Cleanliness
great views, great property, great hosts!
This property is located on top of a ridge with just fabulous views. It was very smoky the weekend we were there, but were able to enjoy it anyway. There is plenty of room for everyone with an open floor plan so everyone can still interact. Excellent kitchen with a nice big island. And Connie and Eric responded really quickly to every email, wanting to make sure all is perfect! I highly recommend this property, and we will definitely be coming back!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Evan N., Pollock Pines

Liked: Cleanliness
Great experience, amazing home and views!
The photos really don't do this place justice. The setting was absolutely incredible with amazing views. The house itself was very comfortable and spacious with plenty of room. All of us had an amazing time. Connie and Eric were very responsive and helpful. Thanks again for everything!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

sue g.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful getaway with friends
What a wonderful location! Short drive into the adorable, teeny town of Volcano, and just the right spot for drives into surrounding areas. We LOVED hanging out on the deck together, lounging around in the front room, and having our own bedrooms. What a help it was to have AC during this hot summer! We loved every moment of our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Richard B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome view and location
Great place to go for enjoying the peace and quiet. Really could never get tired of the view. And the hosts are very engaged and easy to reach
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Catherine S., Antioch

Liked: Cleanliness
Rooms with Views
This was a wonderful get away for our 15th annual girlfriends trip. The view, quiet and peaceful surroundings was just what we were hoping for. The surrounding property was perfect for watching hawks to hummingbirds, lots of deer and the surrounding farm animals were fun to watch. The wrap around porch, with a patio table and chairs was perfect for many hours of listening to music and friendship time. The house is clean and very comfortable, including the beds.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Paul L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing Getaway
The house was clean, cozy, and easily accommodated our group of 7 adults. The home was perfect for beautiful mountain/forest views and wildlife sightings (deer, birds, etc.). Communication was clear, consistent, and smooth. Thank you for a wonderful stay. We enjoyed our visit and hope to return some day soon!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Anastasiya R., San Francisco

Liked: Cleanliness
Peace and quiet with an unforgettable views
Amazing property, great location for a big family getaway. Hosts we're super helpful in communication and with recommendations. We loved everything! Do pack a sleep mask as there is so much light it's hard to stay asleep ;) and at night you get magnificent sky. Pack a binoculars and go explore!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2021

8/10 Good

Ann K.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had a great time with family.
Very fun.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Vanita N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Son's 17th Birthday Stay while skiing in Kirkwood
Thank you so so much for sharing your lovely home amidst the Amador Pines full of peace and beauty. Your property is stunning and many other commenters and previous guests are right - photos do no do justice to this amazing home and the location. Beds & Bathrooms were very comfortable. Thanks for the Master bedroom Toto toilet luxury, warm seats are great! Thanks also for keeping baths with basic toiletries - that was a pleasant nice warm surprise to see easy to dispense Costco size containers vs the small ones in our travel cases/hotels. Nice touch. The beds were super comfortable and we had a great restful time on the deck and in the house. Instructions on getting away to nearby places, grocery stores, and history of the home and land was so fun to read about. Again, thanks for sharing, we hope we can definitely come back.

10/10 Excellent

Sharon G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Slice of heaven in Volcano
Absolutely fabulous property. Spacious, clean, stunning views, lots of privacy, very positive attentive owners. Walked over 2 miles just meandering on the trails on the property. Met the friendly neighbors (donkeys) and enjoyed relaxing on the big deck listening to all the birds. My three kids loved exploring. My only minor suggestion is to get a full size coffee pot for those of us with big caffeine addictions. I definitely would rent here in a heartbeat! Thank you for a fabulous weekend!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Barbara B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Old Gals Slumber Party
I turned 70 in December and threw myself a slumber party with my daughter and several “old” girlfriends. We had a wonderful time and this property and home were perfect for my party. We played lots of games, hiked, cooked, watched movies, and had a blast! Thanks
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Noi K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Family Vacation.
My experience at the rental property was great! The owners are very nice and excellent at communicating with us. The place is beautiful and the view is amazing too. We had a great time vacaying here with the family. Will definitely come back again sometime next year. Thank you so much for letting us stay at your property!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Darryl T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Place
Enjoyed the time at Bear Family Ranch. Wish we could have had more time actually on property. Love the area with it's historical importance to the Gold Rush of 1849!

10/10 Excellent

Melanie R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Family Home
The views are incredible and if you're in to walks the trails are great. Kitchen is a dream and accomodates many cooks.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Yash K., San Ramon, CA

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic mountain retreat in Gold Country
Our family had a great time at bear family ranch. The property is as described on the rental listing. It was spacious for the 8 of us including 3 young kids. The property has all the amenities we needed including stocked kitchen and bathrooms. The house is very clean. The views from the deck as breathtaking and make this place unique. The hosts were easy to communicate with. The location is great - secluded in the mountains but still close to Sutter Creek and Jackson. And lots of wineries. We visited Black Chasm Cavern and Indian Grinding Rock, both of which were good for kids. Overall, a great option in Gold Country!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Sebastien M.

Liked: Cleanliness
The perfect view
My family and I are so grateful for you to have shared your space with us. We were together, watched the amazing view adapt from dawn till dusk, cooked, hiked, and felt so at home here. Thank you for everything.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019