Nestled above Half Moon Bay, shrouded sometimes in a misty, mysterious fog, Kings Mountain Fancy Camp is the perfect blend of American wilderness, European flair, and Lebanese hospitality. Though a hidden gem, I can’t help but share it—because at MerciSF, sharing is caring.
The Place
Choose from three lovely tents (soon to be four) or a cozy 1-bedroom flat with a hot tub -all thoughtfully equipped with board games, Folio books for Francophiles, and stunning views of redwoods and the Bay. Enjoy the picnic area for events, a firepit for s’mores, mountain bike rentals, massages, and the company of 300 chickens, a few goats and friendly dogs.
The Hosts
William, born here on what started as his grandfather’s horse range, made a life in Beirut’s hospitality world before returning in 2021. Sana, a graphic artist (check her work here) turned extraordinary host, raised between Beirut and Lyon, complements the family project with warmth and creativity. In 2021, the duo, and their two sons, decided to move to California, ready for a fresh start. Without a set plan, apart from hospitality, they poured energy into renovating the family property.
Sana is active on the Kings Mountain Association board, nurturing ties with the small 450-home community along the Skyline Scenic Route. Visitors, half locals from the Bay Area, come for a weekend escape just minutes from Palo Alto and San Francisco.
Every Labor Day, the community comes alive with the Kings Mountain Art Fair, a renowned Art Fair at the Fire Station, celebrated for its creative spirit and family vibes. Known for restaurants like the Mountain House and Alice’s, trails near Fancy Camp are perfect to stretch your legs.
After just three visits, Fancy Camp feels like my home away from home: quiet, welcoming, and stunning. On your way out of the property: don’t forget to take some fresh eggs, zaatar (a middle Eastern spice mix), or Sana’s designer socks as mementos.
Kings Mountain Fancy Camp is truly a special place. So, go explore this treasure tucked into the fog and sun of Kings Mountain.
MerciSF Rapid Fire:
- Favorite restaurant (William): Alpine Inn in Portola Valley
- Favorite restaurant (Sana): Mountain house, our neighbors, on the Skyline
- What do you miss the most from Beirut (William): meeting people spontaneously
- What you miss the most from France (Sana): Fashion
- If you were to leave the area, what would you miss the most (William): my own eggs from my own chicken
- If you were to leave the area, what would you miss the most (Sana): my home
Kings Mountain Fancy Camp, Skyline Boulevard, 94062 Woodside, California
Bookings can be done directly on the website, on Airbnb, Hipcamp, via email Sana at sana@fancycamp.site or on Instagram.
