While the kids were at camp for the summer, Abigail and I decided to set off on our own version of summer camp for a weekend at the Mohonk Mountain House. Built in 1869, Mohonk Mountain House is a grand old lodge in upstate New York. It’s a place full of history and natural beauty, offering a perfect blend of adventure and rest.
Just like summer camp, there was plenty of outdoor fun and three hearty meals a day included—though, the food here was miles better than what the boys were eating. They even cooked the steak rare enough for Abigail, which is impressive even for New York steakhouses to do well.
It’s no accident that Mohonk and summer camp have much in common. Both are rooted in ideas from Native American ways, which teach living in harmony with nature. This way of thinking fosters a deep respect for the land, understanding the natural world, and learning skills to live well in the wild. At Mohonk, this influence is evident in how activities are designed to connect guests with the natural surroundings.
Over the weekend, we took in the full camp experience. We went canoeing on the lake and hiked around the grounds. We challenged ourselves to go the long way up to Sky Top Tower, passing through lush gardens and scenic spots along the way. The view from the top was breathtaking, showing us the full stretch of the mountains and valleys.
Abigail’s favorite thing was the wildlife. On our hikes we saw groundhogs and chipmunks scurrying around. We even met a deer in the middle of a path just hanging around, totally not afraid of us. One morning Abigail went on a bird-watching tour, which let her see not just birds but even a sleeping porcupine and a snake.
I really liked the Mohonk summer houses—small, simple shelters scattered across the grounds. Built as early as 1871, these 118 little houses offer cozy spots for resting, reading, or simply taking in the views. They are more informal than typical gazebos, with a rough charm that adds to the natural beauty of the area. These little hiding spots were nestled throughout the trails and were perfect for reading, writing, and thinking.
The Mohonk Mountain House is more than just a lodge; it’s a key part of American history. The National Historic Landmark Program’s Statement of Significance for the site’s historic landmark designation in 1986, stated:
Begun in the 1870s as a small resort for family and friends by the Smiley brothers, it became so popular that it was enlarged many times. Because of the Smileys’ love of the outdoor life, the area around the hotel was treated as an integral part of the attractions of the resort. Much of this area was planned as an experiment in conservation of the natural environment and as an educational tool for studying botany, geology, and outdoor living.
Mohonk Mountain House, Statement of Significance for National Historic Landmarks Program
This legacy of caring for the land and teaching others about it still shapes Mohonk Mountain House today, making it a one-of-a-kind place that blends history, nature, and a strong sense of community. Our weekend there was a fresh reminder of the need to preserve natural places and the joy of simple pleasures like a walk through the woods or a quiet moment in a summer house. The chance to connect with nature and each other, free from the distractions of modern life, was priceless and deeply rewarding.
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