Retreat Center Inspiration

Amazing Retreat Center Inspiration

When thinking of planning a group retreat, whether it is a family reunion, a corporate getaway, a spiritual gathering, or whatever the reason may be, picking a location is not only a very important decision but also an incredibly hard one to make. There are so many options for to choose from that picking something ideal for your group can be a challenge that cause many to fall at the first hurdle.

This is why we have put together a list of 5 amazing retreat centers that all offer something a little different, whether it is the activities they offer, the beautiful scenery around it or simply the facilities onsite. So even if you do not find the retreat center you ate looking for from this list, we are sure that you will find ideas and inspiration here to help you in your search.

Hire a Whole Summer Camp for the Weekend - Camp Schodack / Berkshire Retreat Center

Why get a hotel or a conference center for three hours when you could book your own private resort for the weekend? Bring the family, friends, colleagues and whoever else wants to enjoy an unforgettable experience!

We are set on 100 acres of privately owned lawns and woodlands located just 2.5 hours from both Boston and New York City.  We have overnight accommodation for up to 500 people and a number of picturesque locations around the grounds that people have chosen as the ideal place to share their vows, relax or spend time with friends. With plenty of activities included there is so much for you and your guests to do.

Find out more: https://berkshireretreatcenter.com/

Go Glamping and get off the Beaten Path - Collective Retreat at Governors Island

Collective Retreats is a new, meaningful way to travel. Each retreat is located in an iconic destination and features luxury outdoor accommodations, exceptional culinary experiences, and genuine hospitality. We created Collective Retreats because we love travel and believe in its power to help us connect—to places, to people, and to ourselves.

Our team has decades of experience in travel and hospitality—and more importantly, a shared appreciation of exploration, adventure, and innovation. We are building a company that makes it possible for luxury to coexist with ruggedness, for fine dining to happen under the stars, and for people to connect to a place and to those around them

Find out more: https://www.collectiveretreats.com/retreat/collective-governors-island/

Enjoy the Mountains - Shalom Mountain

Shalom Retreats® were developed by Jerry and Elisabeth Jud, in 1969, as a process for exploring the transformative power of loving community.  Jerry and Elisabeth demonstrated that by creating a community that practices the skills of intentional loving, great personal healing and transformation can occur. In 1976, Shalom Mountain Retreat and Study Center was established in the Catskill Mountains one hundred miles northwest of New York City as the home of Shalom Process. It was founded as a ‘hope structure’, calling people to live passionately and with compassion in the world.

From 1992 to 2007 the subsequent owners, Joy Davey and Lawrence Stibbards expanded the center’s retreat offerings and developed leadership training programs.  Currently established as a not-for-profit 501c(3), Shalom Mountain is governed by a board and management team, and run by staff, volunteers and a network of retreat leaders with backgrounds in psychology, theology, education, medicine and business.  Our retreat leaders are extensively trained and experienced in Shalom Process.

Find out more: https://www.shalommountain.com/

Enjoy Lakeside Views - Ashbury Retreat Center

Located on the shores of Silver Lake in Western New York, Asbury is a premier retreat center that offers a variety of facilities to meet everyones needs. Our site boasts over 60 acres and over a quarter mile of shoreline on Silver Lake. In addition to providing facilities for groups to conduct their own retreats, meetings, worship services, and programs, we can assist with program planning, guide groups through our low ropes course, conduct retreats and workshops, lead singing and games, and provide supervision for recreational activities.

Asbury also offers year round retreats for families, children and youth, clergy, and adults.

Find out more: https://asburyuny.org/

Make the Most of the City - Sanctuary NYC Retreats

We welcome you to the serene spiritual atmosphere Sanctuary provides, as well as varied programs on bhakti (yoga of devotion) which we offer as part of our membership program. These include sacred meditation in the yoga studio/temple room, workshops on Vinyasa infused bhakti yoga, kirtan (devotional chant/prayer), history and philosophy of yoga, Ayurveda (science of life and healing), as well as varied workshops/events on related subject matters (nurturing body, mind & soul).

Each room is equipped with a mini library of books on the science of the soul as delineated in the ancient classic Bhagavad Gita, the text that inspired Gandhi, Emerson, Thoreau and Einstein who wrote; "I bathe my intellect daily in the cosmological wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita." Weekly classes are included in the Sanctuary membership program @ our affiliate The Bhakti Center.

Find out more: http://www.sanctuarynycretreats.com/

Amazing Retreat Locations

5 Amazing Retreat Locations in New York

Finding the right location for your event can be a challenging task, especially when there are so many options to choose from. Having been providing amazing experiences for over 60 years, we know that choosing the right Retreat Center is important, so here we have taken a look at 5 totally different Retreat centers in and around New York State to give you and your guests inspiration for next getaway.

The Summer Camp - Camp Schodack

With overnight accommodation for up to 500 guests at any one time, Camp Schodack is a truly unique location in the foothills of the Berkshires. Spread over a 100-acres, this privately owned venue operates as a Summer Camp from mid-June to mid-August. One of the benefits to a venue such as this is that any rental group has the bonus of taking advantage of all of the activities that are part of the property during their stay. These include go-karts, archery, a climbing tower, 7 tennis courts, 2 heated outdoor swimming pools as well as a range of indoor and outdoor areas and meeting spaces to take full advantage of the beauty of the capital region.

Find out more here: https://berkshireretreatcenter.com/

The Learning Center - Peace Village

There are spaces that touch the heart and soul in ways that you will not find anywhere else. Peace Village is a learning and retreat center that offers weekend retreats on a variety of topics where you can learn to meditate and study spiritual knowledge. The silence and tranquility of the Village provides the atmosphere for self-exploration and spiritual practice. Practicing yogis volunteer and teach at Peace Village. Their hospitality and warmth while hosting you during your retreat will be one of the memorable aspects of your stay. Peace Village opened in 1999  and is a retreat center of the Brahman Kumaris .

Find out more here: https://peacevillageretreat.org/

The Meditation Center - Kadampa Center

In 1994 Kadampa Buddhist teacher Geshe Kelsang Gyatso established Chakrasambara Center in New York City and requested one of his senior students, Kadam Morten, to become the principal teacher. The Center started off in a small graffiti covered dance studio near the Bowery, and by 2001 classes were being held in a rented commercial space in Chelsea. With an unprecedented volume of people seeking these teachings and meditations each week, we faced an immediate need to expand. In late 2011 we located and were able to purchase a street front space only two blocks away from our longtime location. After an extensive build-out and the installation of  numerous newly cast Buddha statues, in October 2012 we opened the doors to the future of Kadampa Buddhism in New York City.

Find out more here: https://meditationinnewyork.org/

The Farm - Bailey Farm

Bailey Farms was settled by John Young in the early 1800s, and the original farmhouse still survives. The property was acquired in that century by “Old Ira” Bailey, from whom the Farm gets its name. In the early 1900s, the property was purchased by a Broadway actress. Next, legend has it that a wealthy New York gentleman took ownership of the Farm and in 1937 built a replica of a Georgian estate house for his wife, who had admired a picture of a similar structure in a British magazine. Twenty years ago, Bailey Farms became the retreat and conference center it is today, dedicated to serving the larger community. We regularly welcome schools and colleges; professional and business associations; churches, synagogues, and other religious / spiritually oriented groups; community, civic, and cultural groups.

Find out more here: http://www.baileyfarms.org/

The Mountain Spa - Menla

Set in a secluded valley beside an enchanting stream in the heart of the Catskill mountains, Menla is a hidden oasis, featuring spiritual and wellness retreats as well as exclusive getaways and the world-class Dewa Spa. A truly unique venue, Menla is the Dalai Lama’s cultural center in North America—a modern retreat and destination spa inspired by the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Tibet. Immerse yourself in the magic of our pristine mountain forests, explore hiking trails, encounter wildlife, and discover a rich tapestry of wellness experiences and activities, including workshops with renowned teachers, yoga and meditation, Tibetan healing therapies, massage and other bodywork, and so much more.

Find out more here: https://menla.us/

5 Unique Conference Centers in New York

Check out our list of 5 of the most unique conference centers in New York and the North East

If you are looking for a conference center to hold your next event, then take a look through our 5 incredible options for locations to hire in New York and the North East of the US. We have varied our range to include Conference and Retreat Centers in a number of locations with offerings near lakes, in the woods, cities, farms and more.

Whatever the aim of your event, we think that you’ll find a location here that will suit your needs or at the very least, inspire you.

The one in the countryside…Camp Schodack

Why get a hotel or a conference center for three hours when you could book your own private resort for the whole weekend? Bring the family, friends, colleagues and whoever else wants to enjoy an unforgettable experience! Schodack is the ultimate corporate get away accommodating up to 500 guests. Whether you want to spend your time relaxing with colleagues by the pool, using our extensive indoor spaces for planning and discussions or perhaps you are looking to challenge your group to get the most from themselves through our adventure course, go-kart track or any of the amazing activities we have available.

Find out more here: https://berkshireretreatcenter.com/

The one in the city…Convene at One boston place

Convene at One Boston Place is the newest on-demand meeting, event, and conference space in the heart of Boston's Financial District. This state-of-the-art venue has a capacity for up to 175 guests, including a private outdoor terrace and six meeting rooms - perfect for hosting board meeting, town halls, team offsites, trainings, and corporate receptions. Convene provides a dedicated meeting planning team, an on-site Executive Chef who prepares seasonal menus for your attendees, and unlimited access to Nourish, which is our fully-stocked snack and refreshment stations.

Find out more here: https://convene.com/location/one-boston-place/

The one by a lake...Fort william henry

The Fort William Henry offers upscale lodging accommodations with the perfect mix of historical elegance and today’s conveniences. From the traditional grace of the Grand Hotel to the comfort of the Premium East and Standard West rooms, all of our accommodations enjoy access to our extensive amenities, including an indoor pool with sauna and Jacuzzi, Olympic-size outdoor pool,  and three restaurants all on resort grounds.

Find out more here: https://www.fortwilliamhenry.com/

The one on a farm…Eddy farm

We are committed to excellence in providing programs and facilities for worship, teaching, counseling, banquets, conferences, retreats, and physical activities–all with a focus on the Bible as our standard of living.

Find out more here: http://eddyfarm.sandbox.nikijones.com/

The one in with a water park…Hope lake lodge

We look forward to welcoming you on your next vacation to Hope Lake Lodge Resort and Conference Center in Upstate New York, a first class destination situated on more than 1,600 acres of forests and hills in the beautiful Finger Lakes Region of New York state. Getting to Hope Lake Lodge is easier than you think. Convenient to Interstate-81, Hope Lake Lodge is located halfway between Binghamton and Syracuse near Ithaca, New York. Our central location is just a short drive from many metro areas like NYC, Philadelphia, New Jersey, Toronto, Rochester and Buffalo.

Find out more here: https://hopelakelodge.com/

5 Beautiful Summer Camp Wedding Venues

Check out this selection of stunning photos of couples at their Summer Camp weddings all over the North East

David & Katie - Camp Schodack, New York

Kim & Joe - Stony Brook Conservation, Massachusetts / Photo Credit: Samantha Melanson

Abbie & Javi - Camp Wahelo, Maine / Photo Credit: Bethany & Dan Photography

Hannah & Jonathan - Connecticut / Photo Credit: De Nueva Photography

Case & Dan - Camp Akeela, Vermont / Photo Credit: AMW Studios

Best Sports Retreat Facilities In The Capital Region

Incredible Sports facilities

We have 40 acres of open lawns and sports fields. On our property we have access to a huge number of sports and activities for all ages and abilities. These include an all weather, street hockey rink, archery range, softball/baseball field, 2 soccer pitches (one floodlit), 2 outdoor basketball courts (one floodlit), a huge indoor field house with basketball court that is suitable for many activities. Also on site is our 2 heated swimming pools, a large go-kart track, sand volleyball court and 7 newly laid tennis courts. Furthermore we have a 40 ft climbing tower with 5 sides of varying difficulty and a high ropes adventure course with multiple elements. In addition to all this we are surrounded by a further 60 acres of privately owned woodlands perfect for hiking, exploring and cross country runs.

New York Location 

Here at Camp Schodack we are incredibly fortunate to have such a beautiful and easily accessible property in the State of New York. We are located close to the Massachusetts, Connecticut and New Hampshire borders. Set in the foothills of the Berkshires near Albany in the capital region, we are only 2.5 hours from Boston and New York City and as such we are in a prime location in the North East of the United States with great transport links.

Perfect Place To Relax

With all the beauty of New York State as your back drop you couldn’t wish for a betting setting than Schodack, because no matter the season the property always looks stunning. Our cabins are close enough together that you can have all your guests in the same area or should you desire you make use of accommodations further apart from one another, in case you have guests that want to continue celebrating into the night. We have woodland paths surrounding the property and a number of fire pits hidden away that are great for sitting round late in the evening and roasting marshmallows. Many guests arrive and the first thing they do is kick off their shoes and walk barefoot in the grass (something we highly recommend!)

Affordable Packages

Choosing to plan your next event with us doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. We have a dedicated team who will be on hand with you from day one to help you as much or as little as you want. Want to bring in your own catering? No problem! Thinking of planning your own entertainment? Fine with us! You can create your own DIY package to suit your needs or ask our team to help you do it all and let us take the reins. We have been creating amazing summer experiences long enough to have learned how to do it well.

Spacious Cabins and Amazing Outdoor Areas

Each of our main cabins are equipped with cooling fans for the warmer weather and each has their own bathroom and shower facilities inside for the convenience of you and your guests. They are also fitted with porches outside with ample seating. Alongside our main cabins we also have a number of smaller, private accommodations that can sleep couples or individuals should you need use of them. Beyond our accommodation we also have a large, open plan dinning room that can comfortably seat 500 people with access to a large patio should anyone wish to eat outside. We are also fortunate to have many open, outdoor spaces such as our 500 person amphitheater in addition to several covered indoor spaces that can house groups of various sizes to suit your requests, such as our Rec Hall, our Playhouse and more.

5 Reasons To Hire Berkshire Retreat Center

1. Amazing New York Location

Being located so close to both Boston and Manhattan means that we are in an excellent location for groups in either of those cities. It also means that in the rare case that you may think about venturing beyond our borders for a visit to a nearby State Park, a museum or maybe a concert in Albany, we’ve got you covered. But we promise that there is so much happening on the property that you won’t want to leave.

2. Incredible Capital Region Facilities

We have a number of large indoor and outdoor meeting areas and spaces for activities including our 500 seater playhouse, our Recreation Hall, large outdoor amphitheater and quaint Gazebo for smaller group gatherings. Our site can house up to 500 people in our beautifully renovated cabins. Each comes with high ceilings and fan units which keeps them cool during the hot summer days and warm in the cooler evenings. Each of our cabins comes with its own large porch area complete with outdoor seating for you and your guests to take advantage of.

3. 100 Acres of Private Fields and Woodlands

We are truly hidden away from the outside world and yet still easily accessible for you and your guests. Pull into the parking lot, leave your keys in your cabin and you can spend the rest of your time with us blissfully unaware of the anything else going on. Our guests really get the chance to reconnect with nature and each other. Spend time exploring the 60 acres of woodlands trails around us or ditch the shoes and wander barefoot across our 40 acres of green lawns whilst you enjoy the surroundings.

4. More Activities Than You Could Ask For

As we operate as a summer camp from Mid-June to Mid-August our facility is equipped with all of the activities you would associate with a traditional summer camp in the 21st Century. These include popular sports like soccer, lacrosse, basketball and hockey in addition to individual activities like golf and tennis. We have more adventurous activities such as our 40 ft. climbing tower, zip-line, high ropes adventure course and purpose built go-kart track not to mention 2 heated outdoor swimming pools.

5. Make Your Money Go Further

Choosing to plan your next event with us won’t break the bank. Our dedicated team will be on had with you to help you as much or as little as you want. Want to bring in your own catering? No problem. Thinking of planning your own entertainment? Fine with us. You can create your own DIY package to suit your needs or ask our team to help you do it all and let us take the reins.

Top 5 Most Popular Activities

One of the great things about hiring a Summer Camp venue for your next event, no matter what the occasion, is that you and all of your guests get to make use of the fantastic facilities, the huge amount of onsite accommodation and of course, all the activities!

Here we list our most popular activities that you could take advantage of by holding your next event with us...

Water Slide

What could be better on a hot day than breaking out a slip ‘n’ slide? How about an 80ft inflatable water slide purpose built on a hillside for you to slide down and cool off!

Simply put, it’s the best way to get down a hill!

Climbing Tower

40 feet high with 5 different climbing faces, each with varying difficulty levels for you to test your might and all the while you are securely harnessed in and safe to climb at your own leisure with our auto-belay system - so no need to wait around, you can climb as much as you need without further assistance.

Zip Line

Whether its your first or 50th time, the adrenaline that courses through you doesn’t change as you climb to the top of the platform and prepare to take that leap of faith off the top, is amazing. The view is worth the nerves but the feeling you get when you are flying through the air is almost second to none!

Go - Karts

For beginners and adrenaline junkies alike, we defy anyone not to get behind the wheel of one of our karts and not pretend that they are competing in the Indy 500! Pop on a helmet, position your goggles and put the pedal to the metal. Mario Andretti eat your heart out!

High Ropes Adventure Course

There are few things better in life than overcoming challenges and our high ropes course is full of them - Jacobs Ladder, the Rope Swing or if you can muster the courage - the Trapeze! Getting to the top, jumping out fully stretched and catching the bar really is the most amazing sensation!

If you want to take advantage of these or indeed any of the activities we have at our Retreat Center then get in touch with our events coordinator carter@schodack.com