N
estled beneath California's Laguna Mountains lies the small, unincorporated community of Campo. Deborah Jean Peck, a resident of this tight-knit community, has lived here for decades and has no intention of leaving anytime soon.

    Campo may be small, with just under 3,000 residents and one Dollar General store, but its charm lies in its sense of community. People in Campo are known for their willingness to lend a helping hand when times get tough. Peck emphasizes the importance of this aspect of the community to potential future owners.

    After two decades of owning downtown Campo, real estate investor John Ray has decided to sell it for $6.6 million. The downtown area includes 28 buildings, a mix of residential units and commercial businesses such as a post office and Baptist church. The area is home to approximately 150-175 residents, many of whom are young families with children.

    The natural landscapes surrounding Campo are also a significant draw for potential owners. The area is surrounded by the Cleveland National Forest and serves as the southern terminus for the Pacific Crest Trail, an iconic hike that spans the West Coast from Mexico to Canada.

    Potential owners may also be interested in Campo's rich history, including its past as a military outpost for African-American troops during World War II, known as the "Buffalo Soldiers." Short-term rentals could be an attractive option for future owners looking to upgrade the town.

    While some may be interested in revitalizing downtown Campo with major changes, residents are adamant about preserving their town's identity. They do not want to see their town become unrecognizable due to major redevelopment or the construction of hundreds of single-family homes.

    Peck envisions Campo growing in the next decade, with improved infrastructure, safer roads, and more resources for children. Hernandez echoes this sentiment, mentioning renovating the local basketball court and installing a new playground.

    Hernandez believes that a good candidate for downtown Campo would be someone who adds new businesses and residential units while sprucing up existing ones. They are not looking for a buyer who solely focuses on boosting property income but someone with a vision for the town's future.

    Interested parties have included traditional real estate investors and those pitching unique concepts such as using NFTs or imagining Campo as a potential global trade city. Peck has even heard rumors of American skateboarder Tony Hawk expressing interest in Campo.

    In summary, while Campo may be small, its sense of community and natural beauty make it an attractive investment opportunity for those who value preserving its unique charm while fostering growth and development.