Camp Ervay

For residents of New York seeking a profound connection with the natural world, Camp Ervay offers a rare opportunity to trade the clamor of modern life for the quiet rustle of the forest. Located in the picturesque town of Newfield, just a short drive from the cultural hub of Ithaca, this campground is a sanctuary for those who appreciate the beauty of the Finger Lakes region. Unlike traditional commercial campgrounds, Camp Ervay is defined by its intentional "off-grid" philosophy, providing guests with a rustic yet refined experience that emphasizes sustainability and tranquility. Nestled on five private, wooded acres, it serves as a gateway to some of the most expansive wilderness in the state.

The atmosphere at Camp Ervay is one of deep peace and secluded beauty. The property is surrounded on three sides by the Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area, the largest wildlife management area in New York State. This unique positioning makes the campground feel like an extension of the 11,000-acre forest that borders it. Visitors often describe their stay as a transformative experience where the simple acts of bird watching, fire-building, and stargazing take center stage. Whether you are looking for a solo retreat to reset your internal clock or a family adventure that introduces children to the wonders of the woods, the camp provides the perfect backdrop for making lasting memories in the heart of Upstate New York.

Location and accessibility are among the key highlights for local users. Situated at 101 Tower Road in Newfield, NY 14867, the campground is remarkably easy to reach for those living in the Southern Tier or Central New York. It is approximately a 25-minute drive from downtown Ithaca, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the famous "Ithaca is Gorges" waterfalls, local cideries, and the vibrant Ithaca Farmers Market. Despite its proximity to these popular destinations, the camp itself feels completely removed from the grid, located at a high elevation that provides fresh air and stunning vistas of the rolling hills.

The site is designed with practical accessibility in mind, featuring on-site parking that allows for a smooth transition from your vehicle to your private retreat. The roads leading to the camp offer a scenic tour of the Newfield countryside, passing near historic landmarks like the Newfield Covered Bridge—the oldest covered bridge in daily use in New York. This combination of remote feeling and logistical ease makes it a top choice for New Yorkers who want a weekend getaway without the stress of a long-distance trek.

Camp Ervay provides a curated selection of services designed to facilitate an authentic off-grid experience while maintaining a high standard of comfort and cleanliness. The services focus on self-sufficiency and eco-friendly living, including the following:

• Off-Grid Cabin Rentals: Guests can choose from uniquely designed structures like "The Lodge" or the original "Camp Ervay" cabin, both featuring Scandinavian-inspired aesthetics and natural wood finishes.
• Solar-Powered Amenities: The facility utilizes high-quality solar systems to provide essential power for lights and device charging, proving that sustainability and convenience can coexist.
• Waterless Composting Systems: To protect the local ecosystem, the camp features modern, odor-free composting toilets that are both straightforward to use and environmentally responsible.
• Seasonal Outdoor Showers: During the warmer months (typically May through October), guests have access to propane-heated outdoor showers for a refreshing "bathing under the canopy" experience.
• On-Site Firewood and Picnic Support: The camp provides fire pits and picnic tables at each site, with seasoned firewood available to ensure your evening campfire is hassle-free.
• Responsive Local Management: As a locally-run operation, the management is known for excellent communication, helping guests navigate the nuances of off-grid living.

The features and highlights of Camp Ervay distinguish it as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From architectural marvels to natural wonders, the property offers a variety of highlights for visitors to enjoy:

• Rooftop Observation Decks: One of the most unique features of the camp is the ability to climb atop the cabins for unobstructed views of the forest canopy and the night sky.
• Direct Access to the Finger Lakes Trail: Hikers can walk directly from the property onto a network of trails, including the 2.8-mile Bob Cameron Loop and the extensive Finger Lakes Trail.
• Wildlife and Nature Observation: The property includes wide mowed paths, a small wildlife pond, and frequent sightings of deer, foxes, and rare birds native to Connecticut Hill.
• Kid-Friendly Environment: The camp is recognized as being good for kids, offering a safe and expansive space for younger explorers to learn about nature and play in the woods.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Recognizing that dogs are part of the adventure, the camp welcomes well-behaved pets, allowing the whole family to explore the trails together.
• Modern Interior Touches: Despite being off-grid, the cabins feature high-quality mattresses, wood-burning stoves for heat, and kitchenettes equipped with propane-powered cooking surfaces.
• Proximity to State Parks: The camp is within 30 minutes of Treman, Buttermilk Falls, and Taughannock Falls State Parks, offering world-class hiking and swimming opportunities.

To plan your stay or inquire about availability, it is recommended to reach out to the management via their primary address or digital booking platforms. As a popular seasonal destination, booking in advance is highly encouraged.

• Address: 101 Tower Rd, Newfield, NY 14867, USA
• Region: Tompkins County, Finger Lakes

When considering where to spend your summer or autumn in the New York region, Camp Ervay is worth choosing because it offers an uncompromisingly authentic New York wilderness experience. For the local user, it is a chance to support a business that respects the land while providing a truly "amazing" escape. The reviews from real customers consistently highlight how the stay "makes the entire summer," pointing to the perfect balance between the ruggedness of nature and the comfort of a well-designed home.

What truly sets this location apart is the integration of high-design architecture with the raw beauty of the Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area. You aren't just staying near the woods; you are living within them. The opportunity to disconnect from the digital world—while still having access to solar power and fiber internet if needed—allows for a flexible retreat that caters to the modern traveler. Whether you are enjoying a meal at the picnic table, hiking the white-blazed trails of the Finger Lakes, or simply watching the sunset from a rooftop deck, Camp Ervay provides a high-quality, eco-conscious sanctuary that is truly "10/10" in the eyes of the local community.