At Firelight Camps in Ithaca, New York, escape to nature and relive summer camp days (think toasting s’mores and swapping ghost stories by the fire.) But, here, don’t expect to find rock-hard rustic bunk beds, sleeping bags, a cafeteria-style mess hall, or a long, arduous trek to an outhouse.
Situated on the grounds of the La Tourelle Resort & Spa, the veritable glampground is dotted with luxury canvas-clad safari tents appointed with wood floors topped with layered area rugs; comfy king or double queen beds; battery-powered lanterns with USB charging ports; and private covered porches with rocking chairs.
Founded by husband-and-wife team Bobby and Emma Firsch, the tented property (open seasonally from May through October 31st) is also replete with a bathhouse with hot showers, flushing toilets, and sustainable bath products; complimentary continental breakfast with fresh baked goods; a general store with s’mores kits and trail snacks; daily outdoor yoga classes; and a lobby tent stocked with a seating area and library with board games.
What’s unique here, though, is the location. Backing up to Buttermilk Falls State Park, Firelight Camps is an outdoor lover’s dream with countless hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, and gorges. For off-site activities, guests can explore nearby wineries and sample selections from the Finger Lakes, or take a stroll downtown to local boutiques.
