Entire home

Family Retreat w/Yard Near Mesa Verde & Durango Train, Fire Pit & River Access

Photo gallery for Family Retreat w/Yard Near Mesa Verde & Durango Train, Fire Pit & River Access

Living Room
Living Room
Living Room
Living Room
Fully Stocked Kitchen

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation
    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Barbecue
  • Deck or patio

Explore the area

View map
Hesperus, CO
  • Place, Ski Hesperus
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Twin Buttes
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Place, Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Airport, Durango, CO (DRO-La Plata County)
    ‪40 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bunk Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Single Bunk Bed

Bedroom 4

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Dining area

About this property

Family Retreat w/Yard Near Mesa Verde & Durango Train, Fire Pit & River Access

Camp Demarest
Elevation 6,032 Feet
4 Bedroom/2 Bath
Sleeps 8
1,176 Square Feet

Bedroom 1 - Queen Bed
Bedroom 2 - Full over Queen Bunk
Bedroom 3 - Twin Bunk
Bedroom 4 - King Bed

Welcome to Camp Demarest, your peaceful Colorado retreat in Hesperus—ideally situated between some of the Southwest's most iconic destinations. Perfectly located for adventure, the home sits between Mesa Verde National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient cliff dwellings—and the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, where you can experience one of the most scenic train rides in the country. Whether you're here for history, outdoor exploration, or simply to unwind, this location makes it easy to do it all. This newly remodeled home embraces a unique mid-century theme, with large windows that invite the outdoors in and fill the space with natural light. The property itself is steeped in local history, once homesteaded as a stagecoach stop along the Spanish Trail. Throughout the home, you'll find touches of regional character and storytelling—from nods to western author Louis L'Amour, who once picnicked along the nearby river, to tales of mountain recluses and early Southwest tourism. Step inside and you're welcomed by a bright, open living space designed for comfort and connection. The cozy electric fireplace, smart TV, and a collection of family-friendly board games create the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring. The fully equipped kitchen overlooks the backyard and flows seamlessly into a spacious dining area with seating for eight—perfect for shared meals, game nights, or planning your next adventure. The home comfortably accommodates families and groups with thoughtful sleeping arrangements. A front bedroom features a plush queen bed and easy access to a full bath with a tub/shower combination and in-unit washer and dryer. Toward the back of the home, a series of connected bedrooms provide an ideal setup for kids or groups, including a full-over-queen bunk and a separate twin bunk room. The private master suite offers a peaceful retreat with a king bed, dedicated workspace, walk-in closet, and an en-suite bathroom with a large shower, along with direct access to the backyard. Traveling with little ones is easy, as the home is equipped with a high chair, pack-n-play, children's books, and a variety of toys to keep younger guests comfortable and entertained. Outside, you'll find one of the home's most special features: a spacious backyard designed for both relaxation and play. After a day of exploring, unwind by the river, watch for wildlife, or fire up the grill for a barbecue. Guests can enjoy outdoor dining under the gazebo, gather around the gas fire table, or take advantage of activities like horseshoes, cornhole, frisbee, and badminton/volleyball. There's even a fun scavenger hunt of hidden surprises for guests of all ages, plus an extra fridge/freezer for added convenience. Just a short stroll away, the La Plata River offers a peaceful escape into nature. Spend your days fishing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the sounds of the water flowing through a landscape filled with cottonwood trees, deer, and wild turkeys. In the mornings, sip your coffee on the porch while taking in the quiet beauty of the surroundings; in the evenings, retreat to comfortable beds and enjoy cool, peaceful nights under the stars. The surrounding La Plata Mountains provide endless opportunities for hiking, photography, and exploring the beauty of Southwest Colorado. Whether you're visiting ancient ruins, riding historic railways, or enjoying quiet riverside moments, Camp Demarest offers the perfect balance of adventure, history, comfort, and relaxation. We strive to provide a welcoming, comfortable home base as you experience all that the Southwest has to offer—and we would love to host you. (Please note: river levels may vary depending on season and weather.)

This home is dog friendly. Approved Dogs are allowed with a non-refundable fee per pet based on size/type. Please let us know about your pet(s) when inquiring or making your reservation. Additional restrictions apply including crating, leashing, and other rules for the safety of your pet and the care of our home. Please inquire if needed for more details ahead of booking.

To Purgatory Ski Resort: 50 Minutes/40 Miles
To Downtown Durango: 20 Minutes/13 Miles
To Mesa Verde: 26 Minutes/25.6 Miles

BOOK WITH US AND RECEIVE DISCOUNTS ON RAFTING, ATV/JEEP RENTALS AND TOURS, SKI AND SNOWBOARD EQUIPMENT RENTALS, AND MUCH MORE!

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 24
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 4541714vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a deadlock

About the area

Hesperus

Located in Hesperus, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Durango Arts Center are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Ski Hesperus and Chapman Hill Ice Rink and Ski Area. Historic Tram Park and The Powerhouse are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging and ice skating.
Map
Hesperus, CO

What's nearby

  • Ski Hesperus - 3 min drive - 4.1 km
  • Twin Buttes - 11 min drive - 16.3 km
  • Historic Tram Park - 12 min drive - 17.0 km
  • Perins Peak State Wildlife Area - 12 min drive - 17.4 km
  • Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad - 18 min drive - 24.0 km

Getting around

  • Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad Station - 15 min drive
  • Durango, CO (AMK-Animas Air Park) - 24 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Kennebec Cafe - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Cosmopolitan Durango - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Delightfully Decadent - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Family Retreat w/Yard Near Mesa Verde & Durango Train, Fire Pit & River Access pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Family Retreat w/Yard Near Mesa Verde & Durango Train, Fire Pit & River Access?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Family Retreat w/Yard Near Mesa Verde & Durango Train, Fire Pit & River Access?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Family Retreat w/Yard Near Mesa Verde & Durango Train, Fire Pit & River Access?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Family Retreat w/Yard Near Mesa Verde & Durango Train, Fire Pit & River Access located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 2.3 mi (3.8 km) from Ski Hesperus and within 12 miles (20 km) of Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Twin Buttes. Historic Tram Park and San Juan National Forest Supervisor's Office are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 40 out of 49 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 49 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 49 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 49 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 49 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jim L.

Great property and the host was very helpful

We were headed to durango and this was perfect for us. Would definitely stay again
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dave S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay

We used this house for our Elk Hunting trip. Had 5 guys and plenty of room and good kitchen facilities.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

James D.

Great views, the river was great to relax next to.

Warm home with mid century charm.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dale B.

The property was very clean and exactly how it was represented online.

Everything was great, we would definitely book this property again.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzonne M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

2020 LaPlata Canyon Vacay

We loved our stay at Camp Demerest! The property was amazing!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hilda R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great vacation

My husband and I enjoyed everything about our stay in Hesperus. House was Very comfortable with an awesome backyard. Location was perfect, very close to Durango.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marvin A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy and Quiet

This was a great place to stay. It was nice and quiet with wonderful sounds of nature. The owners are very friendly and helpful. We loved our stay.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cynthia C.

Had a Great time

Property was nice! Lots of outdoor activities!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shannon D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place for everyone!

We really enjoyed staying here. Very peaceful and a great location to many fun things to do. Kids really liked the outdoor games and the river in the backyard. Having great internet service was also great!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sara M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Durango Trip

Nice, comfortable accommodations. We really enjoyed the outdoor space and river behind the house. Would recommend!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jana P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

We enjoyed the house and property. Outdoor space is wonderful and the house was perfect for our trip. The owners are very nice and always available if needed.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shay N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great!

We really enjoyed our stay at Camp Demarest! It was a great place to come relax after long days playing in the mountains!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wade B.

Very clean and well maintained home. I will stay there again.

I booked this home with 4 other guys for an elk hunting trip. The place worked perfect for us. The owners were very compensating and treated us great.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brielle D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay in Hesperus, CO

Our family had an amazing time at this property! Our hosts were so friendly and had great recommendations for places to eat and explore in the area. Great little details on the property too like horseshoes, hammock by the river, even a scavenger hunt for our 6 year old. Highly recommend this property; it's a 15 minute easy drive into downtown Durango and great place to end your night.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019
Verified

8/10 Good

Larry B.

Lovely and quiet place

Nice rural setting. Lots of deer. Plenty of things to do and the owner was very hospitable.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

jon l.

Quiet and Peaceful

The owners are very accommodating and helpful. The property is great for a small family and kids. We loved it!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2018
Verified

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Great house with big yard!

This house had a huge yard with plenty of snow to play with! The house was nice and clean!
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2020
So happy your enjoyed your Christmas stay and the house met your expectations
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A truly peaceful location

This property was the perfect launch point for our trip to Durango and Mesa Verde. We played hard during the day then came back to enjoy the peaceful river, fun outdoor games and open space. The hosts are lovely!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alicia M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Family getaway!

This was the perfect getaway for our family! The property had so much to do. We went exploring in the back of the property, played horseshoes, and relaxed on the back porch every night. We were also very close to Durango with a short drive to fishing access and Lake Nighthorse. We would absolutely stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maggie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic property

Clean, well stocked and inviting. Owners very friendly and helpful. Answered all of our questions. Property absolutely beautiful.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Durango Vacation

This is a great home. The property is beautiful. We played lots of frisbee, and even caught a fish. I would recommend this rental to anyone.
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2020
So glad you caught a fish in the LaPlata River and that you enjoyed yourselves
Verified

8/10 Good

Lisa H.

Great family place!

This was a perfect location to explore Durango and Mesa Verde. The house was very comfortable with a big bright kitchen. The bathroom setup was a bit funky, but worked just fine for our family of 4. We would definitely come back again.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A home away from home!

A comfy place to enjoy inside and out! This home had everything we needed and a great place to relax outdoors. Location was perfect for social distancing, yet close enough to all the site seeing. Thank you so much for sharing your home with us!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

San L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Really great house with lots of outdoor space. Would recommend adding door to bathroom for privacy.

Really enjoyed getting to know Durango again..l oved the consistent sound of the water. Very nice for sleeping.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2020
I enjoyed meeting your family.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Greg G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Quiet place between Durango and Mesa Verde

Nice home located between Mesa Verde and Durango ... our goal was to visit both in the area, and this home was pretty much in the middle. Nice touches for the guests upon arrival, my kids really enjoyed the scavenger hunt and games out back.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019

About the host

Hosted by Durango Red Cliff Properties

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Red Cliff Properties is a family-owned & operated business that strives to provide the highest level of personal care and service.
Guests of Red Cliff Properties get access to exclusive discounts.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

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