Our Vision

Once upon a time, a fisherman lost his way while fishing on a river. As he drifted along, he noticed a grove of peach trees lining both banks. The grove stretched about 100 feet, and the ground was blanketed in delicate pink peach blossom petals. At the end of the grove, he discovered a small cave with a faint light shining through.  Curiously, he stepped out of his boat and squeezed through the narrow passage. After a few steps in the dim tunnel, he emerged into a wide, open land—a hidden valley untouched by time. The valley was rich with fertile soil, flourishing farms, vibrant green trees, and beautiful gardens. The people who lived there were joyful, peaceful, and free of worry.

They welcomed the fisherman warmly and explained that their ancestors had fled to this secluded valley during a time of war. Since then, they had lived in harmony with nature, unaware of what had become of the world beyond the mountains.

They served him a delicious meal and treated him with great kindness. As he prepared to leave, the villagers asked only one thing of him: never reveal the valley’s location to the outside world. The fisherman marked his way home, hoping to return someday—but try as he might, he never found the valley again.

This ancient Asian tale describes a “Utopia”—a perfect place of peace and simplicity. This story is the inspiration behind Kowana Valley.

At Kowana Valley, we seek to offer a modern-day version of that hidden paradise—a place where guests can reconnect with nature and step away from the pressures of everyday life. Nestled in a remote, off-grid location, Kowana Valley invites visitors to slow down, unwind, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life: walking on a dirt path, sharing a good meal, laughing with loved ones, and breathing in the fresh forest air.

Here, you'll be reminded that life’s true essence lies in eating well, playing freely, and spending time with those you love. We hope your stay helps you to have real conversations with your loved ones and yourselves, to create meaningful memories, and to rediscover joy in the little things.

Kowana Valley is a gift from nature, blessed with a flowing creek and forested land. As stewards of this place, we are committed to preserving it through permaculture practices. Our next step is to cultivate a food forest, continuing our journey of sustainable living in harmony with the land.

Welcome to Kowana Valley—your retreat into a simpler, more mindful way of life.

General Info

Off-grid experience

Kowana Valley makes for the perfect escape for your family and/or quarantine bubble to enjoy a completely private escape. Custom-designed to operate in the middle of the Stanislaus National Forest without utilities service, the Kowana Valley Lodge operates on a 100% off-grid system but functions with the convenience and familiarity of a home in the city.

Here are the features of the lodge and the cabin:

-Electricity powered by solar

-Stove powered by propane

-Sink/shower water supplied by well

-WiFi by Starlink

-Smart lock

Other Useful Information

- Open fires are not allowed during the fire season in Mariposa County. Please refrain from campfires until fire season has concluded in the Fall

- Due to the extreme drought in California, the creek in the direct vicinity of the lodge can be dry in summers. The water comes back farther downstream, just a 15min hike. The water still runs farther upstream by the "pot hole" swimming holes and by the upper swimming hole

 - The closest medical facility is at least 30 minutes away, so either be aware and be prepared for those with underlying medical conditions or needs

-We are proud to be a dog-friendly property and would be happy to accommodate your pet for a small additional fee. Please inquire when you book your stay for more information