See all properties
Entire home

Vallecito Mountain Refuge

Photo gallery for Vallecito Mountain Refuge

Guest are welcome to paddle canoe on the spring fed pond.
Guest are welcome to paddle canoe on the spring fed pond.
Hammock Area across the pond.
Property grounds
Exterior

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 10195.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
  • Kitchen
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
Bayfield, CO
  • Vallecito Lake
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Piedra River Hot Springs
    ‪95 min drive‬
  • Purgatory Resort
    ‪99 min drive‬
  • Durango, CO (DRO-La Plata County)
    ‪70 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

3 Single Beds

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

Vallecito Mountain Refuge

Southwest Colorado Plain and Simple! This unique 2100 square foot home is nestled in a secluded mountain meadow, adorned with wildflowers, and surrounded by forests of Aspens and Spruce. The home sits on 11 acres directly bordering the San Juan National Forest and features a Private Fishing Pond, Hiking Trails, Mountain streams, and Mountain Views. With a proximal location to Vallecito Lake, it's a perfect place for a back to nature vacation where you can relax on a covered deck, paddle a canoe and fish on your own glassy pond, encounter a variety of wildlife, gaze into an endless starry night, and enjoy the crystal clear water and cool fresh air of Colorado mountain living.

The two-story house has 4 bedrooms/2.5 bathrooms, along with a comfortable living room with an incredible floor-to-ceiling rock fireplace with plenty of firewood. A large deck wraps around the home with a shaded sitting area looking out over the pond, meadow, and trees. There is a gas bbq grill on the deck.

Fishing is available directly on the property. The pond is stocked with Rainbow Trout and guests are welcome to fish to their hearts content. In order to provide this activity for all of our guests, anglers may only keep 1 fish per nightly stay (ex: 4 night stay = 4 fish). Any additional fishing must be catch and release. **Bring your own fishing gear**

Additional activities include canoeing, hammock area, piano, and a trampoline.

NOTE: The 1/2-mile road up to the home is a a well maintained dirt/gravel road. It is not heavily rutted but climbs steadily. A 4-wheel drive is not necessary but is helpful. A minimum of 6.5 inch ground clearance is recommended.

The cabin sits at 9500' elevation and is off-grid. The homes solar-panel and battery system is design to power the regular needs of our guests while staying at the cabin. The property does not have a Microwave, TV, or Dishwasher. The washer & dryer on site are strictly for use by our property manager.

Please note the property counts with 4 security cameras:
1 overlooking the deck/pond area.
1 overlooking the front gate.
1 overlooking back side of house
1 monitoring garage.

AVAILABLE MAY - OCTOBER. NOT ACCESSIBLE DURING WINTER.

Property manager

Carlos Camacho
Premier Host

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill
Mountain view

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Mountain Serenity - Summer Time

Peaceful Nostalgic Mountain Home Memories in the beautiful Vallecito Valley!

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
9.8 out of 10, (106 reviews)
Peaceful Nostalgic Mountain Home Memories in the beautiful Vallecito Valley!

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
default

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings and weddings
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 50
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 fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Bayfield

Located in Bayfield, this holiday home is in the mountains and on the waterfront. Purgatory Resort and Cliffs at Tamarron are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit James Ranch and Eagle Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Bayfield, CO

What's nearby

  • Vallecito Lake - 17 min drive - 8.7 km
  • Lemon Reservoir - 55 min drive - 36.8 km
  • Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad - 65 min drive - 53.3 km
  • Piedra River Hot Springs - 95 min drive - 80.7 km
  • Purgatory Resort - 99 min drive - 89.0 km

Getting around

  • Durango, CO (DRO-La Plata County) - 70 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Rusty Shovel Saloon - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Altitude ATV & Side-by-Side Rentals - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Buffalo Gap Vittles and Fire Water - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪D bar G Outfitters-Horse Back Riding - ‬25 min drive
  • ‪Angler's Wharf - ‬26 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Vallecito Mountain Refuge pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Vallecito Mountain Refuge?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Vallecito Mountain Refuge?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Vallecito Mountain Refuge located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 5.3 mi (8.6 km) from Vallecito Lake and 11.4 mi (18.4 km) from Los Pinos River. Lake SImpatico Trailhead and Lemon Reservoir are also within 25 miles (40 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. 70 out of 77 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 77 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 77 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 77 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 77 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

8/10 Good

Shayli W.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Gem in the woods

This property was absolutely perfect for my daughters intimate wedding ceremony! Its so private and very remote! The road leading to the property is a bit sketchy, 4 wheel drive is a good idea. We will definately go back!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Charles J.

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

Great place

If you want to pull your family away from the daily grind and enjoy some time together this is place. Owner was very helpful and friendly. Awesome place!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Megan G.

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

Mountain Getaway

While staying at this cabin you quite literally have an entire mountain to yourself. The first drive up to the cabin is a little nerve racking. A little bumpy but not a bad drive at all. We had very minor hiccups and Carlos was very quick to call / text us to fix the problem. If I could give 10 stars for the costumer service I would. The cabin was super clean and was stocked with everything we needed. My 4 kids had the best time fishing and playing on the play set. If you want to have a true Colorado cabin vacation this is the cabin to book! We will definitely be staying here in the future!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

4/10 Poor

charmayne f.

Liked: Location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in

Disappointment

Overall we had a good time. Was not ready when we got there. Dirty. I had mopped the floors myself. No shampoo or soap in bathrooms. Had to throw away old soaps in bathrooms. We wiped down kitchen counters. When we arrived two gentlemen where there. One was rude when I had ask were the beds changed. So much more. I could go on but there is not enough room. I took pictures, so if anyone wants them just ask. This maybe a one time and one time only thing. My luck I guess. The pond was full of stinky moss so you could not fish. Like I said I have pics if anyone wants them. I am not one to complain but this was a disappointment. Hopefully this will not happen to anyone else. but I feel for what we paid it was terrible. I just wish I could have spoken to Carlos. Never had the opportunity to do so. The area around the property was not mowed. Some of the sheets were new and still in the package and they put it on the bed anyway. Like I said it was not what I expected. When we pulled up the guys there were peeking out of the windows. I felt very uncomfortable. The lady who does the cleaning did not show up so these guys were a last minute effort. My family and friends made the best of an awful experience. What else were we supposed to do? I could go on but I think you got the picture.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Candy P.

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

Remote, relaxing, and rejuvenating

We were able to enjoy much needed down-time with the whole family. We rested, fished, hiked and played indoor and outdoor games together. The morning coffee on the deck overlooking the pond watching the hummingbirds and chipmunks was wonderful. Loved how isolated we were from the noise and activity of the city. It was so peaceful except for the squeal of laughter from our games and canoeing adventures. The cabin accommodations were perfect for our wide age-ranged family, everyone felt at home. We would highly recommend for a peaceful, fun, and relaxing vacation.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

karol p.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Walden’s pond

This is an isolated retreat. Accessible via 4 wheeled drive . Fully furnished. Trout fishing paradise. Very quite. Negative thoughts-none except mosquitoes
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Keith K.

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

Quiet and private getaway

The kids were a little wary at first, but they never said one word about no tv after we got settled in. This is the most relaxing places we have stayed in the 20 years we have visited the area. Very quiet, very remote, and very private. We had a blast! Best bring your 4x4 if you’ve got it!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Linda H., Gilbert, AZ

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

Awesome way to disconnect and take a break from life!

Such a relaxing break from our day to day. Wildlife, storms, and a restful property were just what we needed, and Greg delivered. Highly recommend!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tommie J., Forestburg, Texas

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

Great Vacation Home

We truly enjoyed our stay! It is very secluded and quiet. Great home for the family and our small dog. It is a little distance from the main road up the mountain, but all in all, a great time.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Becky D.

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

Beautiful Cabin

This cabin was perfect for my family. We were looking for seclusion and being able to unplug. Mission accomplished. The kids caught butterflies around the cabin in the mornings and enjoyed playing ping pong, football and board games. We enjoyed being on the deck most of the day. We are already planning our next trip!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brad S.

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

A Beautiful Serene Mountain Home

Excellent all around experience. Accurate descriptions of all amenities. Great communication with property owners. The perfect secluded mountain getaway. So quiet and peaceful. My family and I absolutely loved the property and are grateful to the property owners for the opportunity they provided us.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cathy P.

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

Beautiful Solitude

Great off grid systems. Beautiful spot.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cayla M.

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

Stunning mountain cabin

We visited Greg and Jan’s property with our 2 year old daughter and two dogs. It was an absolute dream. Secluded but also close to a small general store and restaurants. Ample hiking. The property itself was amazing. They thought of everything you could of forgotten and it was so clean. Truly stunning. We loved the thoughtfulness of the games and yard toys they left. It’s hard to find a rental property that includes little traveling guests and they nailed it.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kori S.

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

Beautiful getaway

Our family loved staying in this remote cabin in the woods. The pond and canoe were so much fun. The kids also loved the ping pong table as well as the games and puzzles that were thoughtfully available. The property was close to the Vallecito Reservoir and atv rentals. Everything was very comfortable and the kitchen seemed to have all the basics. We only had a couple of issues. The master bath showerhead wasn't adjustable and seemed to lack volume. That might be an intentional efficiency head but it was frustrating. The toilets were also small and low for my 6 ft husband. Other than that the place was fantastic. It was clean and charming and we just didn't want to leave!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne C.

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

Refresh your life in a mountain cabin!

My family basked in the quiet serenity of the surrounding forest and star-gazed at the heavens we cannot see in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. The wood fire in the fireplace brought us together every evening for cherished moments of reconnecting...old memories and now new memories. Thank you to the Phillips family for sharing this cabin in the woods with us - we hope to return soon! Suzanne Carroll
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael W.

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

Secluded Cabin Get-Away

My wife and I enjoyed our stay at this beautiful cabin. The property surrounding the cabin is stunning with the pond just off the deck and for us all of the fall colors. Greg was great with communication and even called to warn me about possible snow during our stay. He made sure we had all of the information needed and even checked on us after the stay. My wife and I are already talking about booking this place again next year.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Julia R.

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

Stargazer Paradise

We brought a powerful spotting scope with us. On a clear night we zoomed in on stars and planets. It was amazing. This is an isolated property. Quiet, serene, inspiring. The house is roomy and comfortable. We had a blast in surrounding area 4-wheeling. If you would like to get away this is a joy.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

carol w.

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

Extremely peaceful and beautiful area

Would definitely go back
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Charles G.

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

It’s a very nice and secluded place. Very quit and peaceful.

All directions made it very easy to find. Very nice place to unplug from the everyday life. It was very easy to relax and enjoy our time together.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lacy W.

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

Secluded Mountain Cabin

We enjoyed our stay at this cabin up above Lake Vallecito. The property and surrounding forest were beautiful. We loved the seclusion and being high up on the mountain. We spent most of our time hiking around the property in the National Forest. The cabin was amazing, very clean, and communication with Greg was excellent. This was one of our favorite rentals and we can't wait to go back!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mike R.

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

Mountain Getaway

So nice to get disconnected from daily life and enjoy great friends. Cabin was awesome. Did some hiking on nearby trails and caught fish on Vallecito Lake. Evening campfires and a challenging game of croquet were so much fun. Definitely recommend this place. Bring an suv because it’s up the mountain!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Sarah R., Portland OR

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

Memorable mountain getaway!

This is a very unique property and stay - we were so grateful for the chance to spend a week at this cabin. There are great local hikes in Vallecito area, but some days we felt like we didn't even need to leave the property. We enjoyed morning coffee on the patio, reading, games, evening fires. and nightly stargazing. The cabin was an ideal setup for two families. Our communication with owner was amazing! When we booked the stay he took the time to reach out to answer any questions we had, and we met him twice in person during our stay. Fridge space was adequate with some advance planning - and there were extra coolers for produce, etc. We were able to do one grocery shopping trip for the entire week with no trouble. Our Subaru Ascent handled the road to cabin with no trouble. This is a vacation that our kids will remember for years to come!
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jeremy W.

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

Beautiful Escape

A beautiful, off-grid home - my family truly enjoyed the area and the property. Greg is an excellent host and reached out to communicate with us regularly. He takes great pride in the property and it shows. The home was just as described and provided us a wonderful opportunity to unplug and relax. The private road to access the cabin can be a little difficult to traverse when it has been raining, but it dries out fairly quickly. We would definitely stay here again if we return to the Vallecito area.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jen D., Albuquerque, New Mexico

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

Awesome!!

The place is beautiful and very well equipped. We will definitely be back!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Sara F.

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

Exceeded Expectations

This property is a dream come true for it's potential for an off the grid, truly life changing vacation experience! The expansive surrounding forest was so beautiful and enjoyable to explore. The cabin was comfortable and cozy, and fit the surroundings perfectly. There are gorgeous hikes nearby up the mountain and also on property. I will definitely be booking again to enjoy the crisp mountain air, lush greenery, and beautiful views from the deck!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021

About the host

Hosted by Carlos Camacho

Host profile image

Languages:

English, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback