Sari Marissa G.
Yelp
This wasn't my first stay in a tipi, teepee, tepee, however you want to spell it, all are correct. It wasn't even my second time. It was my third magical stay in one of these cone shaped wonders which bring me so, so much peace. So, I guess you can say I'm a "tipi expert", comparatively speaking. A night's sleep in a tipi is certainly a very spiritual experience, one I believe everyone who is even the slightest bit a nature lover or even just a tad boho should definitely try! I completely understand they aren't for everyone, but if you're somewhat adventurous, I say it's an absolute must!!
This tipi was made very well. The flooring was made of stone and pieced together perfectly as if it were grouted which was new to me. There were scattered pallets around the fire for relaxing, covered in faux fur throws as well as tree stump end tables, some with candles and naturally shed antlers. It was like my own home right here in the middle of NY state. Fresh towels were waiting, neatly folded on our cozy, comfy bed.
The fire pit which is traditionally placed inside the tipi, in the middle, was very well constructed and safe. It was deeper than most I've seen, surrounded by larger stones around the perimeter. Small kindling wood peices were ready and waiting for us as were candles, matches and directions on how to care for the structure.
The top of the tipi remained opened all night which I personally prefer for star-gazing and waking up naturally by the daylight. The flaps can normally be closed during rain or colder weather.
There was a hammock located just feet away from the tipi. We spent the morning rocking along in nature, listening to the birds fly above and just staring at the tipi which has just given us an amazing nights sleep.
The outhouse was a little ways down the trail and was the cleanest I've ever seen! Even the tp was folded into a tip!
There's pump water for washing, even a mirror. No shower. Please consider that when booking. And if you're too chic for a little saw dust sprinkle after you do your business, stay elsewhere.
On the way out we fed two beautiful horses and a couple chickens which for me just added to the experience. Have no fear, they're far enough away from camp base you won't smell them. They were extremely friendly and hay bails were there waiting. Please no people food!
We took a drive around the massive property, 225 acres to be exact!! There were many secluded sites besides the tipi! I definitely see us coming back here, with the kiddos too! It was about 3 hours or so from Philly and was literally on our way to Canada. It's about 20 minutes from my favorite grocery store in Albany, Honest Weight which will have anything you may need. Note, there's not much directly around so come prepared. The closest coffee shop was about 15 minutes away. The land was very rural, but it's about 10 minutes down the hill to the highway, which you could not hear from the site.
We had no interaction with anyone here as we arrived after dark, so if you're used to concierge and camp hosts, this isn't the place for you. You can leave your car lights on to set up or if you're like me and have lanterns in your car, one would come in handy at night as it's pitch black. Aka perfect. Jason was readily available for directions and any communication leading up to our stay which we booked through Airbnb. I have a coupon code for $35 off if you're interested, just inbox me.
Even in the dark we really didn't have an issue finding our site, but it may be tricky for some. Stay patient and follow the signs. Siri doesn't know her way around the grounds.
The Magic Forest also hosts trips and does composting, farming and other environmental projects daily. Check their site for more info! It's a very special space.
I highly recommend this experience. Just for a night!
