The Treehouse

Welcome to House in the Clouds, a one-of-a-kind Treehouse featured in the Netflix documentary on the Laci Peterson case. Designed by Ralph Morgan in 1965, this mid-century modern gem is crafted entirely from redwood and wrapped in glass, offering 360-degree views of Dry Creek. The open floor plan includes an updated kitchen and a spa-inspired master bathroom. Elevated among the trees, this private retreat is a nature lover’s dream, blending architectural history with contemporary comfort.

• 7 guests
• 3 bedrooms
• 2 baths
• 2 night minimum

The space

About this space

Welcome to The Stilt House, a breathtaking, one-of-a-kind Treehouse that’s not just a place to stay but a part of history. Featured in the Netflix documentary on the Laci Peterson case, this home is a mid-century modern masterpiece designed by Ralph Morgan in 1965 as his personal residence.

Crafted entirely from redwood and encased in glass, The Stilt House offers 360-degree views of Dry Creek, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature from every room. The open floor plan includes an updated kitchen and a recently remodeled spa-inspired master bathroom, blending the charm of the 1960s with contemporary luxury. Elevated among the trees, this architectural gem provides a secluded retreat perfect for nature lovers and those seeking peace and privacy.

The Space

Outdoor Living:

The Stilt House boasts a massive tree-enclosed back deck that has grown with the home, creating an entertainer’s dream space. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet evening, this mid-century marvel offers all the amenities to make your stay unforgettable. The outdoor area exudes a Madmen-style atmosphere with all the appeal of a swanky LA cabin, right here in Modesto.

Kitchen:

The kitchen has been beautifully updated with new appliances and countertops, preserving the home’s vintage architecture while adding modern convenience. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or simply love the feel of a chef’s kitchen, you’ll find everything you need, from high-end appliances to all the pots and pans required to prepare a feast. For a truly exceptional experience, a private chef can be arranged upon request.

Master Bedroom:

Secluded at the back of the home, the master bedroom features a king-sized bed and a spa-inspired ensuite bathroom. This sanctuary is lined with windows, flooding the space with natural light and offering tranquil views of the surrounding nature. It’s the perfect retreat after a day of exploring, providing both comfort and relaxation.

Additional Bedrooms:

There are two more bedrooms, each with queen beds and 50-inch TVs, making them ideal for families, friends, or older children who appreciate their own space and privacy.

What you get access to

Guest Access

Guests have full access to the entire property, including the expansive outdoor deck and all indoor spaces. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or an extended stay, you’ll find everything you need to feel right at home.

Other Things to Note

• Safety First: Safety is our top priority. The property is thoroughly sanitized and cleaned between guests. Please note that we are not a pet-friendly home. Unauthorized pets will incur a $500 fee.

• Preservation: The home features original wood floors from 1965. We kindly ask guests to be mindful of this and avoid dropping heavy objects that could cause damage.

• For Families: We offer a portable pack-and-play and high chair upon request, making it easy for families with young children to enjoy their stay.

• Nature’s Neighbors: The property is next to a creek, and nature is all around you—from leaves and bugs to birds and bats. Please ensure windows are kept closed to avoid any uninvited guests.

• Important: Every window in the property opens, but please watch your children closely and never leave them unsupervised near open windows.

Location

Our home is located just 2 minutes off the 99 freeway in Modesto’s College Area, known for its beautiful homes and proximity to Modesto Junior College. The 99 freeway provides quick access to Turlock (15 minutes), Tracy/Stockton (30 minutes), and San Francisco (less than two hours away). Yosemite National Park is just two and a half hours away, making it easy to enjoy the best of California.

Local Attractions:

You’re minutes from downtown Modesto, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants, coffee shops, and nightlife. The Gallo Center for the Arts, Doctors Medical Center, and Memorial Hospital are also nearby. Despite its central location, The Stilt House feels miles away from the hustle and bustle, offering a peaceful, elevated retreat.

House rules

• Stays of 30 or more days: guests are responsible for their own consumable supplies such as coffee, toilet paper, and paper towels

What is here

• Wifi
• Full kitchen
• Air conditioning
• Dryer
• Washer
• Free parking
• Laptop friendly workspace
• Dishwasher
• Lake front
• Garden or backyard
• Coffee maker
• Fire pit

Things worth knowing