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Casa de Creosote. Off-grid Cabin and Camping

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Off grid small house. Beautiful area facing Nine points Mesa
Unclassified image, 2 of 10, button
Private kitchen
Private kitchen
Room

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 492.9 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Pet-friendly
  • Outdoor space
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Alpine, TX
  • Big Bend Library
    ‪41 min drive‬
  • Big Bend National Park
    ‪46 min drive‬
  • Santa Elena Canyon
    ‪90 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1, and bedroom 2

2 Queen Beds

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bidet · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo

Spaces

Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

Casa de Creosote. Off-grid Cabin and Camping

This is a romantic studio style cabin/house with a lofted bedroom in the second floor peek of the a-frame. This house offers privacy and solitude being that it is on a 20 acre piece of land on Terlingua Ranch with beautiful 360 degree views of the Christmas Mountains and Nine Point Mesa. I built this house as a creative space to make music and enjoy the Big Bend Region. The beautiful wooden porch with hammock and outdoor couch is great for watching sunsets. Outside cats are Franky/Chaco/Capitan.

The space
This is a beautiful but rustic place. It has daytime air conditioning. The house has running water collected from the rare desert rains. It has a 2 burner Coleman propane stove, wifi, landline, bluetooth speakers, sink, pots, pans and dish ware. A coffee percolator is provided, please bring your own coffee. This house runs on solar power energy and is able to run everything that is in the house(including cieling fan and 1 floor fan) charge cell phones or computer chargers, but not much else. There is a composting toilet for # business , solar shower set up, and a refrigerator for your use. When renting this house if your party is over 2 guests or the Queen size bed isn't enough, there are 2 comfortable floor mattresses also . These will accommodate an individual or a couple. All bedding is provided for the Queen sized bed but not for the floor mattresses. Personal sleeping bags are recommended for them.

Guest access
This is a small house. There is a four guest maximum for the standard pricing. After that it will cost 20 dollars Per night per head extra and a tent or more should be pitched out somewhere on the property.
The one mile of dirt road to the Casa is all weather and does not require a high clearance vehicle.

Other things to note
I have a gravity feed Berkey water filter that filters my rainwater for drinking and cooking. This water is high quality and potable. If you should desire an alternative please bring your own water.
June , July and August are the least popular months to be here because of the high summer temperatures .
Although , personally, I find It comfortable and a great time to be here because the park and the ghostown are much less busy!

Property manager

Jim Keaveny
Premier Host

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 11:00 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: dogs and cats (limit 1 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Outside smoking 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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses solar energy
Host has indicated that there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property, but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Terlingua

Terlingua is home to this holiday home. Local points of interest include Many Stones, Big Bend Library, and Persimmon Gap Visitor Center.
Map
Alpine, TX

What's nearby

  • Many Stones - 38 min drive - 30.7 km
  • Big Bend Library - 41 min drive - 37.5 km
  • Big Bend National Park - 46 min drive - 39.9 km
  • Big Bend Ranch State Park - 79 min drive - 44.2 km
  • Santa Elena Canyon - 90 min drive - 62.8 km

Frequently asked questions

Does Casa de Creosote. Off-grid Cabin and Camping have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is Casa de Creosote. Off-grid Cabin and Camping pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 1 total).

What time is check-in at Casa de Creosote. Off-grid Cabin and Camping?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Casa de Creosote. Off-grid Cabin and Camping?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Casa de Creosote. Off-grid Cabin and Camping located?

Situated in Terlingua, this holiday home is within 25 miles (40 km) of Many Stones, Big Bend Library and Big Bend National Park. Big Bend Ranch State Park and Persimmon Gap Visitor Center are also within 32 miles (52 km).

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 40 out of 51 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 51 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 51 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 51 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 51 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.4/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Chelsea B.

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

A gem in the desert

My Husband and I were so happy with our stay at this beautiful little cabin over Easter weekend! The host was wonderful and incredibly responsive. Amenities were great, exactly as listed and no surprises! We were able to be secluded from others to enjoy the serenity of the desert. We took advantage of the wonderful food at the lodge up the road as well as the showers. 10/10 would recommend this place to ANYONE looking for the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of West Texas.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Heather H.

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

Cute rustic getaway

Amazing view, cute house. Jim is really nice. Be aware, the main room is actually a loft. At least for now.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Jennifer M.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Travis G.

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

Off the grid

Had a tremendous time, host was very helpful as was everyone around town. It was a great trip. The weather wasn’t great but it was an anomaly that just happened to happen, the host accommodated and offered any assistance we needed. 10/10 would recommend. To the host: thanks for being helpful and responsive.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

hema b.

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

Off the grid

Jim’s cabin is built with love and everything inside is functional. We enjoyed our getaway. The cabin was as described. It was safe and complete silence in the evenings. We enjoyed hanging on the porch for sunsets and star gazing. Incredible. We didn’t have cell signal (kinda the point) but his wifi was great when we needed it. He was very responsive to our questions! Really enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Stella S.

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

Cozy rustic desert cabin

Stayed 2 nights. Located 30 mins from Big Bend NP, 1 hr from Alpine. Host provided spot-on directions. GPS was also accurate, but landmark descriptions from host were super helpful. There are 2 bedrooms, 1 downstairs and the other in the loft. Downstairs bedroom is connected to the bathroom and currently separated by a curtain/sheet in the doorway. Lots of tools and stuff lying around in the bedroom; host is actively updating the cabin so we figured this was why the tools were in the bedroom. Bedroom 1 also an exterior door with private porch. There is running water and conservation is important (minimal flushing, super short showers); water supply is rain water (it's the desert). Upstairs bedroom is one large room, mattress is on the floor. There is enough space for an inflatable mattress, though I suggest battery powered air pump to conserve electricity (solar powered). There is a portable fan up here which worked beautifully the first night; second night the power went out and still not sure why (could be due to overcast skies?). We were able to open the window, though, and it was glorious. The beds were some of THE MOST COMFORTABLE BEDS we've ever slept on! The most noteworthy negative: no cell service and landline is cordless no way to contact anyone when power was out (wifi went with the power). Cabin was very clean inside. Prepare for amazing sunrises/sunsets!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarah C.

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

Off-Grid Hidden Treasure

We absolutely loved our stay in Big Bend. This was one of the most unique and memorable places that we have stayed. This cabin has been built with lots of love and care, and you can tell. The porch was one of the most beautiful parts of the property. Every morning we would watch the sunrise and every evening the sunset. I’ve never been somewhere more quiet and peaceful. Jim wasn’t able to be there for our stay, but made sure that everything was well taken care of for us. It seems that most guests love when he is around as you can tell by reading the guest book. You will not regret booking this VRBO. One thing to note that I think is important is that the cabin is “off-grid” meaning that everything is run off solar power and precious desert rainwater that is collected when it does rain. Make sure you are sparing with the power and water and I would recommend bringing some of your own! Additionally, the stairs to the lofted bedroom are steep! If you can’t climb steep stairs this may not be the listing for you until Jim is fully done with the second downstairs bedroom. Overall, great experience and loved this place!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Magaly L.

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

Amazing stay!

We loved our stay! I appreciate the fact that pers are welcome. They enjoyed the dessert as well :) Property and amenities were exactly as described. Will definitely come back!!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul M.

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

Remote and peaceful

The cabin was amazing. The landscape surrounding us was very surreal to wake up to. The cabin has a lot of charm, and the host was very attentive to any needs or questions. If i am back in the area, i would stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dylan Wiest

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

Great Place Close to Big Bend

The property is smaller but is such a great stay right near Big Bend. The stars outside are just incredible and there was plenty of room for 4 adults to sleep. Everything went super smoothly and I would highly recommend staying here!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

John H.

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

Great Off the Grid

If you are trying to get away this is the perfect spot. The property is nice and clean. They have everything you need. It was quiet and private far from any roads or other properties.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

David F.

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

Awe-some

Casa de Creosote may not be the kind of place for everyone, but some, like me, will find everything. I booked a 5-night stay because I needed to get away from it all and let my mind wander a little while. The Chihuahua Desert seemed like the ideal place, and Casa de Creosote looked remote, relaxed and rejuvenating. It totally delivered.The property owner, Jim Keaveny (who is a great musician...seriously, listen to "Happy Man"), met up with me the day I got there to show me around the place and explain how the off-grid cabin worked, the essentials of water and energy conservation, and to tell me about the area. I could tell how proud he was of his quirky, handcrafted cabin and how much he wanted people to enjoy and respect it. I enjoyed all of it.Folks should know that while there is an indoor toilet, those who wish to help conserve water can (and should) use the compost toilet as much as possible. I would also recommend bringing your own water--not that the water there isn't usable or drinkable, it is--but the fact that all the water there is collected from the rare desert rain, it would just mean a lot to bring your own.As for the area, the views are spectacular, the night sky is gorgeous, and the desert life is fascinating. I would spend my days taking in the mesas in an area so quiet I could hear ravens' wings slowly fold as they flew by. I would spend my nights staring out into the stars in awe.This place will reward you for what you put into it. Treat it kindly.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie G.

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

THE best place to stay.

A beautiful cabin with breathtaking views! Absolutely perfect! We enjoyed our stay very much! Thank you so much Jim!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mark G.

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

Must Rent Off Grid Cabin

Everything was as advertised but there is so much more!! Jim was great about communicating and when my two grand children and dogs were added to the trip at the last second he was like "no problem". He even brought us propane for the heater as it was unseasonably cold. Off grid with some luxury, 1 million stars with no light pollution, a fire everynight and a great host. Highly Recommend!! Terlingua is a small community andJim knew everbody, great recommendations and an incredible host. Thanks Jim
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matthew S.

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

Quiet desert stay

Jim's cabin was a great place to stay, away from the noise and lights of the city. The property is set with views in all directions and we were able to disconnect in a big way. Would recommend to anyone wanting to try off-grid living.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey M.

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

Stay at Casa de Creosote

Great place and great views
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Courtney S.

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

Vaness

Very Cozy and relaxing! Absolutely breathtaking surroundings!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Payton M.

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

couldn’t get enough

love love love this cabin! Off grid living with a shower…can’t get any better than that. The hammock was a huge hit with our 4 year old and don’t get me started on the views and the sky!! Jim is the best host. We will definitely be returning!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

4/10 Poor

Courtney R.

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

Good but not for us

Jim was gracious about his hand built home but we felt some things were a little too ambiguous once arriving. We traveled with a dog and in the summer heat in the desert and only solar powered window A/C it was way too hot. We also didn’t know the “bedroom” was lofted. And we also didn’t know that the wonder lives on the property only a few feet away. The listing could use a little bit more info on a lot of these things. We did not end up staying here. With our dog not allowed in Big Bend we had to take him somewhere he could be kept cool and comfortable during the day. This place might be better for a couple that is not traveling with any animals and in the cooler months.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Roger

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Jim the host is a good soul. The shower and the floating chair on the porch that made you feel like you were going to fly into the Stars were my favorite part of my stay. A memorable experience and a good spot to stay for the big bend park. Would come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Hannah C.

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

Great basecamp in the desert

Perfect base to explore the Bug Bend area. Excellent drinking porch for the evenings. Jim was super communicative and helpful.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shannon F.

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

Rewarding Off-Grid Desert Experience

I appreciated the thoughtful care and attention to the architectural detail of the cabin. It was essential that I take the time to learn about and ask questions, as well as make the effort to become familiar with what "off-grid living" entails for the desert-like conditions of the surrounding Alpine / Terlingua / Study Butte, Texas environs. I found information and planning components for this via online forums, from Jim, as well as from the visitor information provided by nearby Big Bend National Park. Jim was a gracious and amenable host, and I was impressed by the depth of his tenacious experiences off-grid and resolute kindness to coordinate my stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matthew Y.

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

Great Access to Big Bend National Park

Property is exactly as described - off grid cabin. Very comfortable place to come back to and relax after long days of hiking, canoeing, and explore Big Bend. Looking up at the stars at night was one of the highlights for us.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

一读 芊.

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

Great gateway cabin

We had a great experience staying at Jim’s remote cabin. The cabin is not connected to any public utilities. It uses filtered rainwater for water usage, solar panels + battery packs for electricity, and septic tanks for sewerage, which are great for the environment. Jim is super friendly and easy/fun to talk to, we exchanged a beer and had a blast chatting various things. Just before we end our stay, Jim completed an indoor bathroom with toilet and hot shower. That made my wife and daughter very happy. We would definitely stay at this place if we are ever visiting that area again
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Travis H.

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

If you like off-grid, you'll love it out here

I can't actually comment on the cabin itself as there was a small mishap with the scheduling, but Jim took care of it and put us up in a place nearby. What I can tell you is that he's a really nice guy and he made sure we were taken care of. As to the area itself, when it says off-grid, it's no exaggeration. That means you get beautiful days and incredibly starry nights, not to mention a quiet night's sleep. My kids and I were outside looking at the stars for over an hour.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

About the host

Hosted by Jim Keaveny

Host profile image
Jim is from North Dakota but has lived in the Terlingua area for over 14 years. He is a professional musician, known in the Terlingua area, and loves sharing his self built home with travelers.

Why they chose this property

This is a beautiful area that is quiet and remote, with incredible skies, and beautiful sunrises and sunsets, only 20 minutes from the ghosttown Terlingua.

What makes this property unique

Jim built his unique cabin by hand and it is completely off the grid. He offers it for a fair price. Guests can enjoy quiet nights with incredible skies and sunrises/sunsets. It is near the ghosttown of Terlingua and near the Big Bend National Park

Languages:

English, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests