Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp, Cliff House East

Hey there, fellow New Yorkers! Are you and your group searching for a unique and authentic escape to the quieter side of Long Island, a place where the focus is on connection, nature, and shared experiences rather than lavish luxuries? Look no further than Cliff House East, nestled within the expansive and historic Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp in Riverhead, NY. This particular lodging option offers a distinct, simple, and functional space for groups, perfect for retreats, workshops, or family gatherings that prioritize natural surroundings and communal living over opulent amenities.

When we talk about a "campground" in the context of Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp, we're actually referring to a vast property designed for youth and adult groups, offering a variety of lodging and activity options. Cliff House East is one of these options – a dedicated building that provides a more structured "lodging" experience within the overall camp environment. As one reviewer aptly put it, it's "Not luxury very simple," yet its appeal lies in its "wonderful energy" and the opportunity it provides for meaningful gatherings. It's about getting back to basics, appreciating the land, and finding comfort in communal living amidst the stunning natural backdrop of Long Island's North Fork.

Cliff House East is located at 3180 Sound Ave, Riverhead, NY 11901, USA, within the sprawling 140-acre Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp. This prime location on Long Island's North Fork places it adjacent to the majestic Long Island Sound, offering a truly scenic and serene setting. For New Yorkers across the state, particularly those in the metropolitan area, Riverhead provides a manageable journey, allowing for a genuine escape without requiring extensive travel.

The camp's address on Sound Avenue means it benefits from the picturesque coastal environment, even if Cliff House East itself isn't directly on the beach. While one reviewer mentioned a temporary road block due to a felled tree upon their arrival, the camp is generally well-situated for accessibility via major Long Island roads. It's far enough from the urban sprawl to offer a sense of peaceful retreat, yet close enough to Riverhead and other North Fork towns for convenient access to local shops, farms, and vineyards should your group desire to explore the wider area. This blend of natural seclusion and local accessibility makes it an attractive option for various group functions.

Cliff House East, as a rental facility within the Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp, provides core amenities designed to support group stays rather than individual hotel-style services. The camp itself is a large-scale operation managed by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County, accredited by the American Camp Association, and licensed by the New York State Department of Health, ensuring a focus on safety and educational programming. For groups renting Cliff House East, the key services typically include:

• Accommodations: Cliff House is a heated building that can sleep up to 32 people, making it suitable for larger groups. It includes a main room that can be used for conferences or gatherings.
• Kitchen Facilities: Cliff House features its own kitchen, allowing groups to self-cater and prepare their own meals, which is a significant cost-saving and communal advantage.
• Bedding (Limited): While beds are provided, it's important to note based on reviews that amenities like blankets might not be standard. Guests should plan to bring their own bedding (e.g., sleeping bags or blankets) for maximum comfort.
• Heating: The presence of heating, including a fireplace as noted by a reviewer, ensures comfort during cooler months. "Gratitude for the fireplace, for sure."
• On-demand Hot Water: Historical information indicates that on-demand hot water was installed in Cliff House, a definite comfort for guests.
• Access to Camp Facilities (by arrangement): Groups renting facilities can often arrange for access to the wider camp's recreational amenities, which might include sports fields, challenge courses (high and low ropes), a working organic farm, and beachfront access on Long Island Sound.
• Staff Support: While not a full-service hotel, camp staff are available for emergencies and general support, including guiding groups to their lodging if needed, as experienced by one reviewer who found an "Angel" resident to help them navigate.

It is crucial for renting groups to coordinate directly with the camp management to understand exactly what is included in their rental agreement for Cliff House East, especially regarding linens and specific access to broader camp amenities.

Cliff House East and its location within the Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp offer a range of features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for specific types of group rentals:

• Group-Friendly Capacity: The ability to sleep up to 32 people makes Cliff House East ideal for larger family reunions, youth groups, corporate retreats, or community organizations like the "Moonfire Community" mentioned in a review.
• Self-Catering Kitchen: Having a private kitchen within the house is a huge advantage for groups, offering flexibility and cost savings on meals.
• Rustic Charm & "Wonderful Energy": Reviewers highlight the "wonderful energy" of the land and the "very simple" nature of the lodging, appealing to those who appreciate a less polished, more authentic outdoor experience.
• Fireplace: The presence of a fireplace provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, especially during cooler seasons, offering a communal gathering point.
• Access to Extensive Grounds: The 140-acre property includes woodlands, farmlands, and beachfront, offering ample space for outdoor activities, exploration, and relaxation.
• Outdoor Educational Opportunities: As a 4-H Camp, the facility is designed to support outdoor education, making it an excellent choice for groups focused on learning or team-building in a natural environment.
• Proximity to Long Island Sound: The camp's adjacent location to the Sound provides opportunities for waterfront activities (if arranged) and scenic views.
• Conference/Meeting Space: The main room within Cliff House can serve as a versatile space for meetings, workshops, or group activities.
• Privacy: While part of a larger camp, renting a dedicated house like Cliff House East offers a greater degree of privacy for a group.

It is important for potential renters to note that "housekeeping" might be a self-managed aspect or require specific arrangements, as suggested by a review mentioning the need for better cleaning, particularly baseboards.

For inquiries about renting Cliff House East or any other facilities at Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp, you should use the general camp contact information:

Address: 3180 Sound Ave, Riverhead, NY 11901, USA

Phone: (516) 832-2591 Ext 109 (This appears to be the most consistent direct line for camp rentals based on available data, though a 631 number also appears for the main camp). It is best to confirm with the camp's official website.

Email: dpf4hcamp@cornell.edu

It's always recommended to directly contact the camp management for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding bookings, availability, specific amenities, and any potential fees.

For New Yorkers, especially those organizing group activities, Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp's Cliff House East offers a compelling and practical solution for a local retreat. It provides a unique blend of rustic simplicity and essential amenities, making it ideal for groups seeking to reconnect with nature and each other without the formality or expense of a conventional hotel. Its location on Long Island's beautiful North Fork provides a convenient escape from the city, allowing for easy travel to a serene and expansive natural setting. The ability to self-cater with a full kitchen, combined with flexible sleeping arrangements for up to 32 people, makes it incredibly cost-effective and adaptable for various needs – be it a family reunion, a scout retreat, an educational workshop, or a spiritual gathering as indicated by past visitors.

While the lodging might be "very simple" and require guests to bring some personal items like blankets, this contributes to its authentic camp experience. The true value lies in the natural beauty of the 140-acre property, the opportunity for group bonding facilitated by the communal living space, and the peace and quiet that comes from being immersed in nature. For New Yorkers looking for a functional, affordable, and authentically outdoor-focused venue for their next group event, Cliff House East within Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp is a hidden gem that promises a memorable and rejuvenating experience right in our own backyard.

Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp, Cliff House East

3180 Sound Ave, Riverhead, NY 11901, USA