The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits

Enjoy the outdoor pool at this Marfa country house

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Photo gallery for The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits

Smart TV, stereo
Terrace/patio
2 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi
Interior
Smart TV, stereo

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking available
  • Laundry

Explore the area

View in a map
Marfa, TX
  • Place, Chinati Foundation Museum
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Place, Fort D. A. Russell
    ‪20 min walk‬
  • Place, Marfa Lights Viewing Center
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Airport, Marfa, TX (MRF)
    ‪11 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Marfa

In Marfa .Within 2 miles (3 km) of this Marfa country house, you'll find Chinati Foundation Museum and Fort D. A. Russell. Ballroom Marfa and Marfa and Presidio County Museum are also within 3 miles (5 km).

What's nearby

  • Chinati Foundation Museum - 18 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Fort D. A. Russell - 20 min walk - 1.6 km
  • Presidio County Courthouse - 6 min drive - 4.4 km
  • Marfa Lights Viewing Center - 14 min drive - 21.5 km
  • McDonald Observatory - 54 min drive - 77.1 km

Getting around

  • Marfa, TX (MRF) - 11 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Bordo - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Marfa Burrito - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Hotel Saint George - ‬6 min drive
  • The Water Stop

About this property

The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits

Located on 300 private acres of agricultural land just 1 mile outside of the City of Marfa, the Merit Camp is a 2 bedroom/2.5 bath home constructed in 2021 with saltwater pool that can be heated. You will enjoy uninterrupted views of the Davis Mountains to the north, Puertacitas and Haystacks to northeast, Goat Mountain to east, and Chinati Peak to the southwest. There is not another home available to rent short term like this property this close to Marfa!

We built the Merit Camp so guests could experience what it is like to live on a ranch, with the convenience of being only a few minutes drive to all that the town of Marfa has to offer. The home was sited to take advantage of the movement of the sun, the big sky, and the sweeping views 20-30 miles in each direction. There are miles of private walking trails on hundreds of acres available exclusively to guests of the Merit Camp. High end appliances, luxury linens, and top-quality furnishings throughout bring all the conveniences of a luxury home to the untamed high desert. There is no need to compromise comfort when you choose our home.

Reimagining a historical structure was the central goal in construction of The Merit Camp. The house is the exact same dimensions as one of our favorite barns on another ranch further south in Presidio County that was built around 1900, but it is located next to operation cattle pens and is still in use as a barn. The shape and scale of the1900 building were just perfect for a house, so we spent years measuring and planning how best to build a new version. The living, dining area, and larger bedroom suite of the Merit Camp have 16 foot ceilings and are in what was the main hay storage and a tack room of the 1900's barn. The smaller bedroom suite, screened porch, kitchen and half-bath occupy the location that serves as horse stalls in the old barn. We have gutters in the Merit Camp in the same exact location that the 1900s barn has them for rainwater collection that fed a trough, but ours water the Desert Willows.


FAQs:
Can we have an event? If you plan to have more than 4 adults onsite an event fee must be paid and this must be approved PRIOR to check in. We offer rates for events of up to 100 guests, please inquire for fee schedule and other pertinent information.
What if I need to cancel? Please read the rental agreement prior to booking.
Where do 6 people sleep? The house can accommodate 4 adults and up to 2 more kids (2 adults 4 kids, 3 adults 3 kids, etc), so it sleeps 6 if some of the children are small and the guest brings their bedding (pack-n-play, etc).
Are there other houses or people on the ranch? Throughout the year there are cattle at the property, but the Merit Camp is the only residence.
How close is Marfa? The City limits are just over 1/2 mile from the gate. Downtown Marfa is less than a 5 minute drive.
Can I charge my car? We do not offer car charging at this time.
What if I want to have friends out to swim? If you will have more than 4 adults onsite, or 6 people including children, an event fee must be paid.
Can I bring my cat? The Merit Camp allows up to 2 dogs, and cannot accommodate cats.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Internet access

Parking and transportation

  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Things to do

  • Heated pool
  • Outdoor pool
  • Stereo

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 2 accessible parking spaces
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Gravel flooring in public areas
  • No elevator (single-level property)
  • Single level property
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • Private pool
  • Smart TV

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dining table
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Dryer
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Living room
  • Mobile key entry

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

READ THE RENTAL AGREEMENT BEFORE BOOKING. This property is a ranch with special considerations to be taken before booking. 30 night max reservation.
Event Fees must be paid to have more than 6 guests (max 4 adults) onsite. There is a camera on the road, we will confirm the make/model of vehicles.
No smoking onsite, indoors or outdoors. Violations will result in forfeiture of your ENTIRE deposit. No fire pit or ground fires allowed.

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 2 pets
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Note from host: $100 fee, must remain INSIDE fence or on leash

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: house is not childproofed, POOL ONSITE with cover

Events

No events allowed
To have visitors onsite there is a $1000 min fee.

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: To have visitors onsite there is a $1000 min fee.
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. Note from host: To have visitors onsite there is a $1000 min fee. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation. Guests can access their rooms with a mobile device.

We should mention

  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

Frequently asked questions

How close is The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits to the airport?

This country house is 6.2 mi (11-min drive) away from the Marfa, TX (MRF) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this country house.

Does The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits offer free breakfast?

This country house does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits?

No, there is no casino at this country house.

What time is check-in at The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits?

Free parking is not available at this country house.

Does The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits have a pool?

This country house features an outdoor pool.

Does The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this country house.

How close is The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits to downtown Marfa?

This country house is 1.7 mi away from Marfa.

The Merit Camp: private modern ranch house w/pool just outside Marfa City limits Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 54 out of 54 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 54 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 54 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 54 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 54 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to enjoy Marfa!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sara Q.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stunning views! Our family loved spending time together in a home that was so well maintained and organized for guests.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heather W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great time at this house! My young kids enjoyed the pool, and we enjoyed the views and proximity to Marfa & the Davis Mountains. Would absolutely recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary L.

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

Perfect Marfa Stay

Marfa vibe very close to town but just far enough to feel like you are in the vastness of Texas wilderness.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing property and experience. We loved it so much.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott S.

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

Quiet Get away incredible view

The house was well appointed and the views were incredible. Very quiet and relaxing! Will be staying here again soon!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aimee V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We absolutely loved our stay at The Merit Camp. The space was beautiful, comfortable, and filled with thoughtful details that made it feel special. The pool was perfect, and the privacy made it such a peaceful escape just outside Marfa. Lauren was a wonderful host, attentive and easy to communicate with from start to finish. We can’t wait to return.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Camille P.

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

Absolutely amazing stay!

The property could not be better - gorgeous, full of amenities, and with incomparable views of the stars. Great location too!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle A.

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

Beautiful Marfa Getaway

Excellent home for a lovely stay in Marfa.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The location was stunning and perfect for a sister’s weekend getaway. We enjoyed the pool and beautiful home very much. The sunsets and stargazing were especially nice. Our host, Lauren, was wonderful and attentive. I highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marisa S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing…. This home was out of a storybook. Set in the middle of 300 acres, yet only a few miles from town. Loved the minimalist design/decor and how comfortable it was, add in the gorgeous views and you get a perfect relaxing stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kate L.

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

Marfa weekend rebut!

We loved our long weekend stay!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gabe H.

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

Merritt Camp

Enjoyed our stay with 3 kids under 6. Clean and accommodating.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brian R.

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

Great Spot!

Incredible property - Spoiled rotten good!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brianna S.

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

Cutest spot in the west!

We absolutely loved this stay! Our family trip felt so comfortable here. We had every amenity we could possibly need and the views were SPECTACULAR!!! We were able to see a comet from the backyard and felt like we were the perfect distance from town if we needed to grab anything but also far enough away!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cody W.

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

Awesome stay

Everything was great about the stay!! Owner was awesome to communicate with and help out!! YOU HAVE TO STAY HERE!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
As a repeat customer, I must say this house continues to deliver with tremendous views, ample privacy, amazing amenities and always spotlessly clean. I keep coming back because of the level of luxury and quality of house furnishings. The host obviously knows what it takes to offer a stay that makes the customer want to return. The sunrises and sunsets are the best. The wildlife is always there to greet you. This location is so close to Ft. Davis, Alpine, Marfa Prada, Valentine and the 1950s movie scene memorial for, "Giant". I cannot wait to book my next stay.
Rabbits playing just over the courtyard wall.
The colors at sunrise and sunset are like a painting.
You never get tired of this view.
Complete privacy for miies.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Simon E.

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

A great house

We loved staying here. The house was very nice and the views are amazing. It is very close to town but it feels farther away. I look forward to staying there again.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jadd M.

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

Excellent Marfa retrear

Beautiful property and views, great location, and wonderful local host. Thank you!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie W.

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

Amazing

It was perfect! They thought of everything. Location and views were amazing. Great beds, well stocked kitchen, kids loved the pool. Very clean. Would absolutely stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew P.

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

West Texas

Incredibly smooth booking and stay, beautiful space and immaculately kept inside and out.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff S.

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

cool spot just outside of marfa

we were a group of 4 (2 adult couples) who enjoyed a couple of nights in this rental during a short stay in marfa. the house is very nice, the location is great (close to town but definitely away from it all), and the hosts/check in were smooth and easy. we were very happy with the house itself and would readily stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Melissa G.

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

Marfa ranch house

The home was beautiful and very well appointed with anything you might need. The setting a short distance from Marfa is very peaceful. We saw cool wildlife near the house. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle P.

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

Amazing

This is our 2nd stay here, the house, property & pool are amazing. All the comforts of home in a fantastic location. This trip we had car trouble & they were so kind to assist us by being flexible & helpful. Highly recommend!!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laurie P.

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

Beautiful, spacious home

Property owner was very polite, prompt and curteous with communication. The property itself is located just outside of town. It feels secluded enough to be a lovely getaway, but very convenient, as it is just a few mins from town. The home has gorgeous views of the property in every room. Definitely recommend and will likely be back!!!The
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025