Camp Ervay: Your Off-Grid Cabin Escape in the Ithaca, NY Finger Lakes Region

For New York residents seeking a true escape into nature without completely sacrificing comfort, Camp Ervay in Newfield, NY, offers a uniquely compelling option. Far from a traditional tent or RV campground, Camp Ervay is a private, multi-cabin retreat specializing in an off-grid, deeply immersive experience. It's the perfect destination for locals from the Tri-State area, Central New York, or Western New York who are yearning to unplug and explore the famous natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region.

This property is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it features beautifully constructed, custom-designed cabins and a larger lodge, built with a Scandinavian-inspired, rustic simplicity. The focus here is on providing a comfortable, minimalist base camp surrounded by expansive wilderness. As one enthusiastic local reviewer shared, this location is "Absolutely amazing. This place makes my entire summer every summer," highlighting its powerful draw as a cherished annual retreat.

Camp Ervay is a gateway to the very best of upstate New York’s natural and cultural offerings. Guests are encouraged to explore the area's rich tapestry of activities, ranging from the breathtaking waterfalls and gorges of nearby state parks to the vibrant local community. Reviewers specifically recommend exploring the food, entertainment, and nature hikes, and make sure to highlight the "Farmers Market" in the region, underscoring the perfect blend of wilderness relaxation and local cultural engagement that makes this destination so special for New Yorkers.

The retreat is officially located at 101 Tower Rd, Newfield, NY 14867, USA. This location is strategically important for New York locals, as it places Camp Ervay firmly in the heart of Tompkins County, just a stone's throw from the intellectual and cultural hub of Ithaca.

While the setting is deeply rustic and secluded, its proximity to major Finger Lakes destinations makes it highly accessible for a long weekend or an extended summer vacation:

Proximity to Ithaca: Camp Ervay is only about a 25 to 30-minute drive from downtown Ithaca, home to Cornell University and Ithaca College. This allows guests to easily access high-quality dining, eclectic entertainment, local breweries, and specialty shops before retreating to the peaceful woods.
Surrounded by Wilderness: The property is uniquely nestled on a five-acre site that directly borders the vast 11,000-acre Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area. This is the largest contiguous high-elevation forest in the region, providing immediate, unrestricted access to hiking, birdwatching, and deep-woods exploration for nature lovers.
Waterfalls and Gorge Access: The location is conveniently close to four of New York State’s most spectacular parks, known for their stunning waterfalls and gorges: Robert H. Treman State Park, Buttermilk Falls State Park, Taughannock Falls State Park, and Watkins Glen State Park. All are within a 30-minute drive.
Finger Lakes Trail Access: The property provides direct access to the Finger Lakes Trail system, making it an ideal staging point for multi-day hikes or simple day trips along the scenic route.
Regional Exploration: The Newfield location positions guests perfectly for touring the famous Cayuga and Seneca Lake Wine Trails, offering easy drives to countless wineries, breweries, distilleries, and cideries that define the Finger Lakes experience.

Camp Ervay's services are defined by its commitment to a comfortable, fully off-grid experience, bridging the gap between traditional camping and cabin rental.

Off-Grid Power: Cabins are powered by solar energy (Goal Zero Yeti units and solar panels) to provide lighting, power for essential appliances (like a refrigerator), and charging capability for phones and laptops. This allows guests to disconnect without being completely cut off from necessary modern comforts.
Seasonal Running Water and Hot Shower: The cabins feature a sink with seasonal running water (typically May through early October). A major highlight is the outdoor cedar shower with hot water, available when temperatures permit, providing a truly invigorating and rustic bathing experience.
Heating: For comfort during cooler upstate New York months, heat is provided by a cozy wood-burning stove, creating a traditional cabin atmosphere.
Kitchenette Facilities: Each unit includes a functional kitchenette with a propane-powered cooktop or induction stove, under-counter refrigerator, sink, and a full set of utensils, pots, pans, and dishes, allowing for self-catering.
Waterless/Composting Toilets: The cabins utilize modern, waterless composting toilets (Separett GTG), ensuring convenience and minimizing environmental impact in the off-grid setting.
Fiber Internet Access: Despite being off-grid, some units offer fiber internet, providing a surprising and useful amenity for those who require a brief check-in for remote work or communication while enjoying the rustic retreat.
Pet-Friendly Accommodation: The lodge welcomes dogs, recognizing that many New York residents want to bring their furry friends on vacation (subject to rules like keeping them off the furniture).

Camp Ervay’s highlights speak directly to the preferences of the modern New York outdoor enthusiast and relaxation seeker.

Immersive Wilderness Experience: Directly bordering 11,000 acres of state land provides an unparalleled opportunity to truly immerse oneself in the deep woods of Upstate New York, offering immediate hiking and wildlife viewing.
Unique Architecture and Design: The custom-built cabins, with their light-colored natural wood and Shou Sugi Ban exterior finishing, offer a design-forward, cozy, and aesthetically pleasing place to stay—far beyond a standard rental unit.
Rooftop Observation Deck: A unique architectural feature of the smaller cabin is a rooftop observation deck, providing spectacular views of the surrounding forest and the perfect spot for stargazing in the quiet, dark nights of Newfield.
Proximity to Waterfalls: The short drive to the region’s incredible gorge parks means guests can spend their days hiking to world-famous waterfalls and their evenings relaxing by a campfire in their secluded cabin.
Perfect Blend of Rustic and Modern: The use of solar power, composting toilets, and fiber internet ensures that the “off-grid” experience remains comfortable and accessible, eliminating the most strenuous parts of traditional wilderness camping.

To confirm availability, seasonal operation details (especially for water and showers), and to book a stay at this unique New York retreat, please use the contact information provided.

Address: 101 Tower Rd, Newfield, NY 14867, USA

The booking process is typically handled through online rental platforms, but direct inquiries can often be made through the information available on the official website or rental listings.

Camp Ervay is exceptionally suitable for New York locals—particularly those from the Ithaca, Syracuse, or even NYC areas—who seek a rejuvenating escape. For the local user, Camp Ervay addresses the need for a retreat that is close to essential amenities and world-class attractions yet feels completely secluded. It is an ideal spot for couples, small families, or solo adventurers who love the outdoors but require a comfortable, unique place to stay. The combination of off-grid independence, stunning architectural design, and immediate access to the Connecticut Hill wilderness and the waterfalls of the Finger Lakes region makes Camp Ervay a must-try destination. It offers a summer experience so memorable that, as one reviewer put it, it's something New Yorkers will want to return to year after year.