Brooktondale Nazarene Camp & Retreat Center

For many New Yorkers, the Finger Lakes region represents a cherished escape, a place where rolling hills meet sparkling lakes, and the pace of life slows considerably. Tucked away in this picturesque landscape, the Brooktondale Nazarene Camp & Retreat Center offers a unique and welcoming environment that goes beyond a typical campground experience. It's a place where community, spiritual reflection, and outdoor enjoyment converge, making it a distinctive choice for locals seeking a meaningful and refreshing retreat.

The Brooktondale Nazarene Camp & Retreat Center, often simply referred to as "Brooktondale Camp," serves as a hub for various gatherings, from vibrant family camps to focused retreats, providing a space for individuals and groups to connect, learn, and grow. While the essence of camping is certainly present with its rustic charm and natural surroundings, the center also offers a range of facilities and programming that set it apart. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere, where "young and old" can come together, enjoying a sense of fellowship amidst the "tall trees" and "unchanging sounds" of the countryside.

We understand that for New Yorkers, finding a place that offers both natural beauty and a supportive environment is key to a truly restorative getaway. Brooktondale Camp aims to deliver on both fronts, fostering an atmosphere that is both serene and engaging. Whether you're drawn by the promise of quiet reflection, the opportunity to participate in uplifting programs, or simply a desire for a family-friendly outdoor adventure, this retreat center offers a blend that caters to a diverse range of needs and preferences. It’s a place where the focus is not just on recreation, but on enriching the soul.

The Brooktondale Nazarene Camp & Retreat Center is nestled at 120 White Church Rd, Brooktondale, NY 14817, USA. This location places it just southeast of the vibrant city of Ithaca, deep within the scenic Finger Lakes region of New York State. For New Yorkers, particularly those in the Southern Tier, Central New York, and even parts of the Capital Region, Brooktondale offers an accessible yet wonderfully secluded escape.

Driving to Brooktondale from major New York cities is typically straightforward. From Syracuse or Binghamton, the journey is generally under an hour to an hour and a half. Even from Albany, the drive is manageable, usually taking around three hours, offering a picturesque transition from more populated areas to the tranquil rural landscapes that define Tompkins County. The roads leading to the camp are well-maintained, ensuring relatively easy access for a variety of vehicles, though guests should always be mindful of local road conditions, especially during inclement weather.

The camp's proximity to Ithaca is a significant advantage. While the retreat center itself provides a comprehensive experience, the nearby city offers additional amenities, including diverse dining options, cultural attractions, and a wider range of services, should campers need to resupply or explore beyond the camp grounds. Furthermore, the location within the Finger Lakes region means easy access to numerous state parks like Buttermilk Falls State Park or Robert H. Treman State Park, and iconic natural wonders such as Taughannock Falls, providing abundant opportunities for hiking, swimming, and exploring waterfalls.

The "middle of nowhere" feel, often desired by those seeking a true break from urban life, is balanced by its reasonable proximity to essential services and recreational hotspots. This makes Brooktondale Nazarene Camp & Retreat Center a convenient and appealing destination for New Yorkers looking to immerse themselves in nature without being completely isolated.

The Brooktondale Nazarene Camp & Retreat Center is designed to accommodate various groups and individuals, offering a range of services beyond just basic camping. Based on available information and reviews, the following services are typically offered:

• Diverse Lodging Options: The center likely offers various accommodation types, including spaces for tent camping, RVs, and cabins. This flexibility allows different preferences and group sizes to be accommodated.
• Dining Facilities: An "air-conditioned dining hall" is a notable feature, indicating that prepared meals are available, especially during scheduled camps and retreats. Meal tickets are offered for family camp attendees.
• Snack Shack: A convenient on-site snack shack provides additional food and beverage options like ice cream, milkshakes, and more, separate from meal tickets.
• Meeting and Conference Spaces: As a "Retreat Center," it's highly probable that the facility includes various meeting rooms, worship areas, and communal spaces suitable for group discussions, workshops, and religious services, accommodating "great speakers" and "children's church."
• Scheduled Camps and Retreats: The primary focus appears to be on organized camps such as Family Camp, Children's Camp (Discovery Camp), Teen Camp, and Prime Time Retreat, with structured schedules and activities.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: Essential for any campground, though a review mentioned a potential "mold" smell in rooms, suggesting variability in maintenance or age of some facilities.
• Activities Programming: A wide array of activities is scheduled during camps, including "Early Bird Walkers," "Horseshoe Tournament," "Glow in the Dark Disc Golf," "GaGa Ball Tournament," "Teen VS. Adult Softball Game," "Escape the Wilderness," "3 on 3 Basketball Tournament," "Glow in the Dark Capture the Flag," "Pickleball Tournament," "Cornhole Tournament," "5K Walk/Run," "Fun with Bubbles and Chalk," "Rec Room (billiards, air hockey, ping pong…)," "Big Bonfire," "Tie Dye Fun," "Family Treasure Hunt," "Fourth of July Parade," "Find a Friendly Fire’ Nights," "Water Fun," "Family Picture Scavenger Hunt," and "Talent Show."

The Brooktondale Nazarene Camp & Retreat Center offers several features and highlights that enhance its appeal, particularly for those seeking a faith-based or community-oriented outdoor experience:

• Community-Focused Environment: Known for its "friendly people young and old" and emphasis on fellowship, worship, and spiritual growth, making it ideal for those seeking a supportive community.
• Diverse Camp Programs: Specializes in various camps (Family Camp, Children's Camp, Teen Camp, Prime Time Retreat), each with tailored activities and "great speakers" and "music."
• Scenic Natural Setting: Surrounded by "tall trees" and offering "rustic smells" that provide an authentic outdoor experience in the beautiful Finger Lakes region.
• Air-Conditioned Dining Hall: A significant comfort, especially during warmer months, providing a pleasant space for communal meals.
• Variety of Recreational Activities: A broad range of engaging activities including sports tournaments (basketball, softball, pickleball, cornhole, horseshoes), unique games (Glow in the Dark Disc Golf, GaGa Ball, Escape the Wilderness, Capture the Flag), creative pursuits (canvas painting, tie-dye), and social events (Trivia Night, BINGO Night, Talent Show, Rummage Sale).
• Proximity to Local Attractions: Within a 30-minute drive of popular Finger Lakes attractions like Taughannock State Park (swimming, falls, hiking), Buttermilk Falls (hiking), Ithaca Children's Gardens, Ithaca Science Center, and The Museum of the Earth.
• Worship and Spiritual Development: Offers "Worship Service for Adults and Teens," "Kids Church," "Kids Activity Hour - Bible Story, Craft, Snack," "Teen Ministry," and "Adult Testimony Hour," emphasizing its retreat center aspect.
• Year-Round Availability for Retreats: The center indicates it can host groups "all year long," suggesting facilities are equipped for various seasons.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about the Brooktondale Nazarene Camp & Retreat Center, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 120 White Church Rd, Brooktondale, NY 14817, USA

Phone (Summer): (607) 539-6826

Phone (Off Season): (315) 396-8173 (Stan McLain)

Mobile Phone: +1 607-539-6826

Mailing Address: PO Box 258, Clay, NY 13041

Fax (Summer only): (607) 539-6769

Fax (Off Season): (315) 363-6325 (call ahead)

Email: chris.davies72812@gmail.com (Chris Davies, Administrative Director) or smclain2@juno.com

It is always recommended to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current schedule of events, specific camp details, and any updates regarding facilities or seasonal operations.

For New Yorkers, the Brooktondale Nazarene Camp & Retreat Center offers a distinct and highly suitable option for a memorable getaway, especially for those seeking a blend of outdoor recreation, community, and spiritual enrichment. Its location in Brooktondale, within the beautiful Finger Lakes region, provides an accessible escape from the urban hustle, allowing locals to quickly immerse themselves in a peaceful, natural environment without extensive travel.

What truly sets this center apart for New York locals is its strong emphasis on community and programming. Unlike many commercial campgrounds, Brooktondale Camp fosters an environment of fellowship, offering structured activities, "great speakers," and opportunities for shared experiences that cater to all ages. Whether it's the lively "Family Camp," specialized programs for children and teens, or quiet moments for individual reflection, the center provides a holistic experience that nurtures both body and spirit. The air-conditioned dining hall and a diverse range of recreational activities, from sports tournaments to creative pursuits, ensure that there's always something engaging to do, rain or shine.

While one review noted a "severed deer leg on the premises" and "rooms smelled like mold," these isolated comments contrast with the overall positive sentiment about friendly people and a great family-friendly atmosphere. It's important for prospective visitors to consider the nature of a rustic, expansive camp setting and communicate any concerns directly with the management. The fact that the center is a long-standing institution, operating various camps and retreats, suggests a generally well-regarded operation.

Moreover, the proximity to Ithaca and its surrounding natural wonders, like Taughannock and Buttermilk Falls, adds significant value. Locals can enjoy the structured activities and community within the camp, while also having the option to explore some of New York's most iconic natural landmarks just a short drive away. This combination of on-site enrichment and regional exploration makes Brooktondale Nazarene Camp & Retreat Center a unique and compelling choice for New Yorkers looking for more than just a place to pitch a tent – it's a place to grow, connect, and refresh in the heart of upstate's beauty.