Yurt structure (in a process of construction)
Details of the Adirondack Project – GAIA*
The place is quite incredible; everything converges here – the upper Hudson, gentle mountains, a beautiful friendly town just a few miles away, and the wilderness with lakes and streams all around, going far out. It is truly a Place of Convergence.
The immediate goal of this project is the creation of an Autistic Retreat in the Nature in Central Adirondacks (using light-imprint eco-friendly landscape design based on contemporary woodland yurt) that would welcome autistic families and adults to the grounds where people can stay as guests, learn, teach, give, take, be, communicate, and grow. The hosts (staff and volunteers, autistic and not) will facilitate the learning environment, and a guided immersion into the nature.
We’re Open! The GAIA Retreat Camp in the Adirondacks will open to guests during June- September 2017 for our 3rd year.
Grounds of Autistic Island in Adirondacks
GAIA is a unique natural ecosystem in the heart of Adirondacks
Bounded by a pristine horseshoe shaped waterworks maintained by the family of beavers, it is home to old growth and an amazing diversity of animal life who share this space with us.
Guests can experience the beautiful natural environment and autistic-positive atmosphere. (See pictures of the camp in our previous update(s))
- Size: The camp can accommodate 25 people; the yurt can house up to 10 people, or two families; the rest of guests stay in tents
- Occupancy: Stay inside the yurt when space is available; and in tent(s) otherwise and for a longer stay.
- What to bring: All guests must bring their own food, and camping essentials.
- Rules: Conservation and respect for the other is a guiding principle. You’ll be instructed in the rules of fire, water, and wildlife.
- Staff: We are planning to have a volunteer staff who will assist in nature immersion, recreation, and learning.
- Tips and donations: tips to staff, and donations to Rhizome program are welcome.
- The stay is free to all Autistic people and families with autistic children.
- Anyone wishing to visit please contact Amik.
Note: The retreat is off the grid; for wifi and reliable cell service (there is AT&T cell service in the vicinity of the yurt) travel to nearby town (there is free wifi access in town’s library 7 miles away). We are currently looking at the ways to bring WIFI and GPS to the site.
Project Updates
(latest at the top)