Sandstone Retreat, intentional community in California, United States
Sandstone Retreat is a small intentional community in Los Angeles County where residents choose to live simply and closely connected to nature. Homes are constructed from natural materials like wood and stone, scattered throughout a hillside landscape with winding paths and rocky outcrops.
The community was founded by John Williamson, who believed in living in harmony with nature and created a space for simple living. His original vision continues to shape the community today and attracts those seeking a sustainable and thoughtful way of life.
The name Sandstone reflects the local geology, with many homes and paths built from or around natural stone formations. This creates a sense of integration between the community and its surrounding landscape.
The location is remote with no shops or public services, so visitors should plan to bring supplies or rely on nearby towns for essentials. Daytime visits are best for exploring, as paths and natural features are clearly visible and the light shows the surroundings well.
Many residents grow their own food and actively tend gardens filled with vegetables, flowers, and herbs while caring for the land itself. This focus on self-sufficient and sustainable living sets the community apart from modern suburbs and creates a functioning ecosystem.
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