A Promise to Gaia/Garden Of One

99%

70 reviews

· Rensselaerville, Albany, New York

107 acres hosted by Rachel G.

2 lodging sites

Staff verified

Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.

Creature comforts

Enjoy the comforts of home at some sites—including flush toilets, showers, and a kitchen.

Private sites

97% of recent Hipcampers say the sites felt private.

Our focus and purpose on this land is to provide stewardship and sanctuary for the Natural world to maintain it’s own balance with minimal interference from humans. To remain wild and free. We are a plant, wildlife and butterfly sanctuary. We rent the lodgings (Chalet, Cabin & Glampsite) to support and fund the maintenance and expansion of native and pollinating species of plants, expanding the area that we steward, providing habitat and refuge for animals, insects, birds and more. We wish to share our sacred land with people that love and respect the Earth, who wish to contribute to a conservation project through their own presence and mindfulness. Once a RV camping park called "Thunder Hill Campground" in the late 1960's early 1970's, the land sat mostly unused for 15 years before Rachel came to steward it 20 years ago. We are 107 acres of forest, a 9 acre lake, ponds, creeks, labyrinth, a Holistic Retreat Center & Organic Permaculture Farm at a 2000 foot elevation in the Heldeberg Mountains. 500 million years ago during the Devonian Period this was a sea, so we live in shale based mountains with lots of fossils! The Heldebergs are one of the oldest mountain ranges on earth, these mountains have been worn down to 2000 feet over time. Native Americans lived in the area many years ago and we are quite sure this was Native American sacred ceremony land. Hiking, canoeing, swimming and fishing (catch & release only) are available on site. There are many places to hike in the area, an Eagle Trail and in winter, 2 miles away, is a Nature Preserve that rents snowshoes and has trails for snowshoeing and cross country skiing, Very rural and private, even though we are only 25 miles SW of Albany, NY the capital of NYS, here it is quiet and peaceful. We do have 3 very friendly dogs that will want to be your best friends. Also farm animals that you can meet. There will be farm noises, roosters greeting the morning and various grunts and snorts... far less noise than any modern city. Albany, along with the surrounding areas, have many events etc going on. There's hiking, biking, nature parks, horse racing, concerts, festivals and events and so much more. Links and information can be provided to campers that stay with us that are looking for entertainment & excursions. We are near Albany, Berne, Catskill, Cairo, Cobleskill, East Durham, Greenville, Hunter, Knox, Medusa, Oak Hill, Middleburgh, Schoharie, Westerlo, Windham.

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Lodging 2 sites

Quaint Lakeside Nature Cabin

100% (20)

Cabin · Sleeps 4

A mixture of early attic and cool re-purposed treasures, this quiet, quaint Cabin overlooks our 9 acre lake. Reconnect to the natural world. Wonderful for relaxation, peaceful exploration, fishing, artist writers or nature retreat. We wish to share our Cabin with people that love and respect the Earth, who wish to contribute to a conservation project through their own presence and mindfulness. Our focus and purpose on this land is to provide stewardship and sanctuary for the Natural world to maintain it’s own balance with minimal interference from humans. To remain wild and free. We are a plant, wildlife and butterfly sanctuary. We rent the Cabin to support our not-for-profit land conservation work. (Providing habitat and refuge for animals, insects, birds and more. The reduction of invasive and harmful species. The maintenance and expansion of native and pollinating species of plants. Expanding the area that we steward.) "Trees release chemicals called phytoncides that reduce stress hormones like cortisol, lower blood pressure, and improve immunity. .. Our bodies respond by increasing the number and activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells or NK. .. In one study, increased NK activity from a 3-day, 2-night forest bathing trip lasted for more than 30 days. Japanese researchers are currently exploring whether exposure to forests can help prevent certain kinds of cancer." -WSMTC & NYSDEC This cabin has a glassed in porch overlooking the lake, complete with rocking chairs; loft, open living area and half bath. Bathroom has a composting/camping toilet, there is also an outdoor camping shower available in a privacy tent (seasonal only). Water containers with pumps provide fresh well water in the kitchen and the bathroom for drinking and washing. The cabin is also equipped with a small refrigerator, a toaster oven, electric kettle, a double burner cooktop and French press. This cabin is cute and funky with lots of charm! We grow a lot of plants to maintain and support a variety species. Our property is not highly manicured - if that won't work for you, then another location may be more appropriate. There is a path around the 9 acre lake, and although we have an abundance of wildflowers, there many areas to swim. We have puzzles, games, cards etc for those that like to play; also coloring books, sketch pad, colored pencils for exploring your creative side. We are constantly upgrading and improving our cabin -- new artwork, bedding, general coziness and fun stuff! Please note, this is a cabin in the woods and there are wild creatures that live here. There is always a chance that one of these small beings can find their way into the cabin, if this is a problem for you please do not book the cabin. We have other listings that may be better suited to your needs. Please contact us about them. We do suggest that you put all food and drink away as leaving these items out can attract creatures to the building. The cabin is available year-round, it has a rocket stove mass heater. Please note: We provide wood for heating the cabin, but it must be chopped down to kindling size for use in the rocket stove. We have a special tool for this that we leave for our guests. Be sure to bring whatever gear you need to be comfortable outside while using it. Cabin can accommodate up to 4 people. There’s a queen bed, beanbag bed in the loft and a single futon bed. We use all organic and natural cleaning products and methods in all of our rentals, private and public space. Lovely swim-able private lake, forest & gardens. Canoeing, fishing (catch and release), and hiking available on our property. Also nearby (2 miles up the road) is a 2500 acre hiking/nature preserve.

Moonlit Chalet & Nature Sanctuary

100% (2)

A-frame · Sleeps 7

The Moonlit Chalet is a magical place nestled into the woods, marked by open forest views, and natural light. Enjoy spectacular sunsets over our lake, from the porches, or through the glass picture windows. Listen to the creek meandering along the covered side porch. Moon-lights, cozy wood-stove, and comfy furniture deepen the relax factor. The Moonlit Chalet is a place of beauty, to unwind, unplug and enjoy nature. Perfect for couples, retreats, honeymoons, or your family vacation. ------------------ For those that crave the inspiration & solace that only nature can provide.... Gardens and paths... benches and views… water and peace…. nature & art…. Wonderful for relaxation, peaceful exploration, creative inspiration, artists, musicians or writers retreat. Ideal for couples, personal or group retreats, weddings, honeymoons or family vacation. Our focus and purpose on this land is to provide stewardship and sanctuary for the Natural world to maintain it’s own balance with minimal interference from humans. To remain wild and free. We are a plant, wildlife and butterfly sanctuary. We rent the Chalet to support and fund the maintenance and expansion of native and pollinating species of plants, expanding the area that we steward, providing habitat and refuge for animals, insects, birds and more. We wish to share our Chalet with people that love and respect the Earth, who wish to contribute to a conservation project through their own presence and mindfulness. General: The Chalet can sleep 7 people, and we also have a portable crib available for the tiny ones. This property is on 17 acres with access to our 9 acre lake (across our private drive) for canoeing & swimming. High ceilings are a welcome relief for tall people. This is a shoes-free building. We have a special floor in the Chalet, it is a one-of-a-kind recycled paper floor. As you come in the door, look up to see our 3D printed moon light! Main Room and Kitchen: The Main Room and Kitchen share an open-floor-plan. The main room has a trundle daybed (can be 2 single beds or 1 queen), leather sofa & chairs, and soapstone wood stove. Large picture windows overlook our forest and lake. The kitchen is fully equipped with running water from the well, gas range/oven, full-size refrigerator, toaster oven, electric water-kettle, french press, dishware, silverware, cooking utensils and more. Organic coffee & teas are provided. Bedroom: The bedroom is equipped with a double bed and propane fireplace. Backroom: Backroom separated by glass french doors with privacy shades, can be used as a separate bedroom or as a sitting room. Has a single-sized pull out sofa bed, chaise lounge, and propane fireplace. This room connects to the main area by the French doors, and opens to two of the three porches - the covered sitting porch, and the covered rear wood-porch. Bathroom: Full bathroom with shower, toilet, towels, robes, and slippers (or bring your own!). Laundry: Front-loading washer and dryer adjacent to the bathroom are available for guest use. PLEASE USE ONLY THE LAUNDRY SOAP WE PROVIDE! (Our soap is hypo-allergenic, septic-safe, and tried-and-true) Loft: Upstairs loft with two beanbag beds, and a fantastic view of our 9 acre lake. (Note: loft stairs are relatively steep) Heating: The chalet is heated by the soapstone wood stove. The propane fireplaces are for ambiance and to help warm parts of the building that are farther from the wood stove. (If guests use propane beyond a certain amount, they will be charged for the extra. The amount depends on weather - obviously more is needed in colder months!) Covered Side Porch: Covered sitting porch rests above the creek, where you have a view of the lake and can hear the babbling of the creek and gentle tones of wind chimes. Lit at night by LED string ceiling lights. Rear Porch: The rear “wood” porch is a covered porch used to access the chalet in wet weather (so as to not drip all over the floor), and stores cordwood for winter heating, outdoor games, etc. Front Porch: Open porch leading to the main door is a great place to do yoga, read, relax, watch wildlife, enjoy the sunset, … Outside: Path(s) and bridges over the creek lead to the Reflection Pond, surrounded with native plants, dragonflies, chirping frogs, and filled with koi. (For the health of the pond and it’s aquatic residents, no swimming or wading.) Below the front porch is a seating area and propane grill. A little further down the slope is a fire pit with log seats. Beyond is a woodland garden with paths for contemplative strolls. Behind the Chalet is a rose & lavender garden, and open area for games. The Moonlit Chalet wouldn’t be complete without a moon garden filled with white & silver scented plants to reflect the moonlight and intoxicate the senses. COVID-19: -Let us know what bedding, towels, robes, etc you used during your stay (even if you washed them) so we can be sure they are as safe and ready for the next guests as they were for you! -We expect all guests to carry a mask with them and wear it when in contact with anyone else on our property. Other things to note: -The changing climate has given us longer spells of dry/drought conditions.We have never had the creek run dry, but it’s always possible! The level in the pond may drop several feet during particularly dry seasons. -We will need to access the property occasionally to maintain plants, feed fish, mow (during extended stays), provide heating wood, refill propane, etc. We value your privacy and we'll coordinate with you on timing so as to not disturb you. If you have any questions or concerns, let us know! Coming Soon / In Process: -Meditation Garden-Waterfall/mosaic wall.

100 ft

Reviews

99% Recommend91 ratings · 70 reviews

The Quaint Lakeside Cabin offers a tranquil escape into nature with its cozy accommodations and picturesque surroundings. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality of hosts Rachel and Brian, who are noted for their responsiveness and attention to detail. While the rustic setting requires some adaptation, such as using outdoor showers and washing dishes without running water, visitors find these elements add to the charm of the experience. The cabin is ideal for those wanting to disconnect and enjoy activities like canoeing and hiking in the serene environment.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· August 2022

A lovely retreat

With kids ·

Quaint Lakeside Nature Cabin

The Quaint Lakeside Cabin was perfect for my two kids and I. We had a wonderful time exploring the area (caverns, Zoom Flume, hiking), getting back to nature with nightly campfires, and slept well in the peace of the forest. Rachel and Brian were excellent hosts.

Anne S.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2022

With kids ·

Quaint Lakeside Nature Cabin

Our family loved camping on Rachel’s serene property. The cabin was calm and cozy and the views of the lake were a beautiful way to start and end the day. The directions were clear and our hosts were great communicators and always there to provide fresh water and tell us about the area. We highly recommend their beautiful property.

Erin M.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2022

This place is MUCH bigger than US

Sacred Hollow Glampsite

We stayed here three magestic nights… there is so much to see and do, or to choose to do absolutely nothing and just stare in any and all directions in order to ground oneself or offer gratitude to the thing that brought you here in the first place. Rachel and Brian and their sweet animal farm of happy-go-lucky creatures are the most welcoming piece of all. I highly recommend this spot for the mission behind what they are doing and in order to support them in honoring the land (if you don’t know what they’re doing please ask so you can further the endeavor even after you’ve gone), but also because of the care and effort they put into the many different travelers to provide a perfect stay. We couldn’t have been better cared for here, all of the amenities were thought of, and we never once felt like we were occupying someone else’s property. The campsite is so private and has its own little pond to admire and swim in. I can’t say enough about it and I hope more people can go and appreciate all that is there to learn and grow from. Thank you Rachel Brian and farm family!

Alex M.

9 reviews

Recommends

· August 2021

Beautiful Location

Sacred Hollow Glampsite

Sacred Hallow is a beautiful isolated location. Rachel was super helpful and quick with all her responses and her husband Brian met us when we arrived and checked in each day to ensure we had everything we needed. All in all a wonderful experience in a peaceful and relaxing location

Melissa K.

3 reviews

Recommends

· July 2021

Lovely lakeside rustic cabin

Quaint Lakeside Nature Cabin

We had a lovely stay at the cabin! Brian and Rachel were wonderful hosts. They were very responsive to our needs and yet gave us plenty of privacy. The cabin is beautiful and just as described. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and will definitely consider coming back again.

Lori K.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2021

Quaint Lakeside Nature Cabin

I had the absolute best stay with Rachel and Brian! Not only is the property beautiful, the cabin comfortable and cozy, but they are truly the best hosts I've ever had. My car was kind of on its last legs when I arrived and Brian went above and beyond to get it working again, was super informative and helpful. I highly recommend staying here!

Isabel S.

3 reviews

Recommends

· June 2021

Lakeside Rustic Yurt

Brian and Rachel are wonderful hosts! We had a great time in their lakeside yurt. The property is beautiful and the spot feels secluded. Being able to canoe on the lake was a huge plus! Rachel gave great recommendations to nearby hiking and Brian gave us a wonderful tour of the yurt and amenities. They had everything we needed in the kitchen area! The tree cover and altitude do make the yurt nice and cool---which is a huge bonus in the summer months. But plan accordingly and bring a jacket or sweater.

Elise S.

2 reviews

Recommends

· June 2021

Lakeside Rustic Yurt

Truly enchanted!

Donnaleah J.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2021

Must stay in yurt next to lake

Lakeside Rustic Yurt

Rachel & Brian were amazing hosts and the property was just as lovely. We went on a cold memorial day weekend, but they were quick to offer more blankets and anything to make us more comfortable, even fresh bread :) We also appreciated the dry composting toilet with toilet paper provided and camping soap for the outdoor shower. Will certainly return and go kayaking on the gorgeous lake

Bryen P.

2 reviews

Recommends

· May 2021

Garden of One Feels Like Home

Sacred Hollow Glampsite

You would be doing yourself a great disservice if you read this review and don't immediately book a trip to Garden of One's property. The spot is absolutely stunning, the sites were immaculately cared for, and Rachel and Brian are simply heaven sent! It was so difficult to pack up and come back to day to day life, it felt like leaving home & long time friends. No words fully express our gratitude for this much needed time away to heal and recoup!

Meg F.

5 reviews

Recommends

· April 2021

Peaceful, beautiful getaway

Group trip ·

Quaint Lakeside Nature Cabin

Beautiful property + gracious and accommodating hosts = wonderful family getaway! I brought 3 kids (11, 10, 5) for a Mom-cation and we all were delighted with our stay. The kids learned to steer a canoe on the gentle, hazard-free lake; we saw a bald eagle and a beaver right on the property; and we had a lot of blessed downtime playing games from the very well-stocked game cabinet. Our family time was helped tremendously by the lack of internet connectivity - a plus in my book for a few days. We do camp regularly so are not fazed by things like outdoor showers or composting toilets or tub-washing dishes without running water. This was part of the fun for us! But, be aware that things like cooking and dishes do take more effort than at a different kind of vacation rental. The kitchen has a smaller selection of wonderful cookware however, including 2 sizes of crock pots, a toaster oven, and an electric 2-burner stove. Pots and kitchen utensils are appropriately sized for 2-4, so if you do come with 5 you may need to find some more forks and/or bring a bigger pot (e.g., for a large pot of pasta). We didn't leave the property much, but did venture out for one day to see a cave with a 100-foot underground waterfall and an Iroquois museum. The upper Catskills are lovely and on another trip I'm sure we would have enjoyed the nearby hikes. This time we just needed to relax and unwind, and this was a wonderful place to do that.

Alicia P.

5 reviews

Recommends

· November 2020

Exactly what I needed

Quaint Lakeside Nature Cabin

It was fantastic! Brian and Rachel took great care of my pup and I. Brian and Rachel were mindful of social distancing. Everything in the cabin was thoroughly explained. I was impressed with how clean the cabin was. The rocket heater was really cool and efficient and a lot cleaner and easier than a regular fireplace but loads more charm than electric heating. Hiking in Huyke was gorgeous. Amazing views everywhere.

Chris S.

2 reviews

Recommends

· October 2020

Lakeside Rustic Yurt

mystical

Sean K.

3 reviews

Recommends

· October 2020

Quaint Lakeside Nature Cabin

We loved our stay in the cabin. It was very cozy and the property is beautiful. Brian and Rachel are friendly and respectful. Would highly recommend!

Sean J.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2020

Lakeside Rustic Yurt

Magical little spot nestled in the woods upstate. The lake is beautiful, the site is well-equipped, and the silence is pristine. Brian and Rachel were excellent hosts to boot!

Stephanie R.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2020

Beautiful Chalet in Nature

Moonlit Chalet & Nature Sanctuary

It was a pleasant surprise since I read the wrong description. This was definitely more chalet than cabin. Many comforts and definitely more luxurious than a cabin stay. Beautiful home in nature with working kitchen and bathroom. A lot of attention to detail was put into this home and was much appreciated by me being an event planner and designer. We really enjoyed our stay and would definitely recommend and do it again.

Valerie D.

5 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2020

Beautiful chalet in nature

Moonlit Chalet & Nature Sanctuary

The moonlit chalet was beautifully designed and decorated. So many little details made the place a perfect getaway for nature seekers looking for extra comforts. We loved everything about it! The hosts Rachel and Brian were also very attentive and accommodating!

Cheryl D.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2020

Amazing camping experience

Group trip ·

Sacred Hollow Glampsite

Garden of One was a great place for camping with our family. My husband and I were used to camping before we had our 2 boys and the Sacred Hollow glampsite was set up so nicely that camping with 2 little boys was made easy. Everything you could think of and more was available including fun lawn games that we enjoyed. There was plenty of room for the boys to run around. The property was so beautiful and situated around a serene lake you could canoe on. We loved that there were other accommodation options including a yurt, lakeside cabin, and the moonlit chalet. My sister, mom and brother-in-law stayed at the chalet which was perfect for enjoying nature with extra comforts. Some of our favorites things were sitting by the bonfire, visiting the faery glenn, canoeing to visit the chalet from our campsite, and awe-inspiring stargazing at night. Finally, Rachel & Brian were so pleasant and helpful. The space they have created is perfect for all looking to unwind, reflect, and enjoy time in nature.

Cheryl D.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2020

Lakeside Rustic Yurt

This was a beautiful experience, in the woods, alone, yet protected and close to the hosts and other guests but far enough to feel alone and have space. Taking the canoe out in the mornings on the slight fog covered lake was magical. Rachel's wisdom was healing. The flowers were amazing. Things to note before coming here is to bring layers/sweatshirts, and know the bean bag beds may take a day or so to get used to. It is a working farm so it felt like a vacation for me and the hosts are also doing many other tasks that require coordination so updating them about time of arrival is helpful. And I had nearly no cell phone service there- which was amazing, but good to note ahead of time. The yurt was wonderful! I'd definitely recommend this place to all. Definitely feels like glamping! In the beauty and the serenity of the woods, but you can stand up and even do yoga in the yurt. Thank you!

Jennie K.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2020

Sacred Hollow Glampsite

We loved our stay at the Sacred Hollow campsite. It was beautiful, private, and we even had a pond onsite. We took advantage of the canoe on the lake, which was relaxing on a warm day. We also were very impressed with the kitchen and it’s amenities. We will hopefully be back!

Ariel S.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2020

Lakeside Rustic Yurt

Thank you to the hosts! We had an awesome trip. I definitely recommend hiking the reserve that is 2 miles away, there is a huge waterfall! We also loved stargazing on the hammock, paddling around on the canoe, and roasting marshmallows. If you like nature and tranquility you will like it here.

Rebecca P.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2020

A perfect Anniversary

Sacred Hollow Glampsite

Fantastic. You will not be disappointed. The location is isolated, the lakes are so pretty and have beaver dams, and the amenities and service were impeccable. Rachel and Bryan are very kind and quickly responded to all requests and questions. We want to come back!

Narmin S.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2020

Sublime, magical

Lakeside Rustic Yurt

Our time spent at the yurt was a truly magical experience. The surrounding landscape teems with wildlife. It was nothing short of pristine. Rachel and Brian are exceptional hosts. The amount of time and care they invest in maintaining this property and assisting guests is self-evident at the moment of arrival. I would highly recommend this location to all friends and family who enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature.

Ella G.

2 reviews

Recommends

· August 2020

A+++++

Sacred Hollow Glampsite

This was a really great experience! My wife and I recommend it to all!

Christopher B.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2020

Lakeside Rustic Yurt

Our stay at the yurt was very refreshing and unique. Enjoyed the whole experience

Csilla S.

5 years on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· August 2020

Lakeside Rustic Yurt

We enjoyed our trip! The property was beautiful and Rachel and Brian were really nice. However, we were unaware that there were other rentals with guests on the property, sharing what is described as a “private lake.” Also, the bean bag beds were a fun novelty, but may not be for everyone. Overall we had a nice trip to this scenic yurt!

Michelle U.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2020

Delightful rustic cabin

Quaint Lakeside Nature Cabin

This beautiful place requires a little adjustment. Not exactly camping and not exactly a modern cabin but a bit of both. Wooden enough to hide any neighbors, with enough electric to charge your devices and do a little cooking but no running water (there is plenty of water provided regularly) the contrast to modern life was welcomed for us. We loved our stay.

Walter M.

2 reviews

Recommends

· August 2020

We loved the rustic little cottage.

Quaint Lakeside Nature Cabin

Rachel and Brian have created such a wonderfully special place--and they are equally as wonderful. We loved the rustic little cottage.

Laurie J.

3 reviews

Recommends

· July 2020

Lakeside Rustic Yurt

Rachel and Brian were wonderful hosts providing their guests with whimsy and wonder. I would recommend 'Garden of One' to anyone with two eyes and a heart.

Morgan I.

5 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2020

A Hidden Gem

Lakeside Rustic Yurt

Rachel and Ryan were wonderful, caring hosts, who made us feel at home. Even though we felt like we had the whole place to ourselves, it was of a great confort to know they were nearby and were ever so kind. The yurt was just a perfect size for the two of us and the dog. The room was neat and had a beautiful flower arrangment greeting us. The site had everyithing we could possibly need from the flashlight to kitchen towels. The attention to detail was obvious and made us feel so well cared for. The lake was our absolutely favorite part! We took full advantage of the swimming in rain or shine and took the canoe out a couple of times. My daughter especially enjoyed the Fairy Graden and we searched for hidden houses and gems together. The place is every kid's delight! We already look forward to being back!