Yurtin' On Keuka

For those seeking a distinctive and immersive getaway in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, Yurtin' On Keuka offers a unique glamping experience on a private 6-acre wooded lot at 2675 Sturdevant Rd, Penn Yan, NY 14527, USA. As a prime option within the "Hotels Near Of Me" category, it distinguishes itself from traditional hotels by providing a canvas yurt structure designed for year-round comfort, blending the tranquility of nature with essential amenities. This destination is particularly appealing to local users looking for something beyond the conventional hotel stay, inviting them to reconnect with nature without sacrificing comfort.

Yurtin' On Keuka is situated on a peaceful, private 6-acre wooded parcel on the east side of Keuka Lake, approximately 7 miles south of the Village of Penn Yan. While the property itself does not offer direct lake access, the lake is visible from the end of the driveway, and public access points like Champlin Beach are a short 15-minute drive away. The surrounding environment provides a sense of seclusion and natural beauty, allowing guests to truly unplug and enjoy the sounds of nature. The unique dome of the yurt allows for stargazing from the comfort of your bed, enhancing the connection to the outdoors. The location places guests right in the middle of the renowned Keuka Lake Wine Trail, with favorites such as Rooster Hill Vineyard and Weis Vineyards conveniently nearby. For those interested in more active pursuits, the yurt is approximately 17 miles from Watkins Glen State Park, 7 miles from the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail, and 14 miles from Keuka Lake State Park.

Being nestled in a wooded area, guests should be aware of the natural elements that come with such a setting. The host proactively addresses pest control, with professional treatments twice a year. However, as with any nature-based accommodation, occasional encounters with insects are possible, and during colder months, mice might seek warmth inside. The property encourages guests who are sensitive to such possibilities to consider this before booking.

Yurtin' On Keuka aims to provide the comforts of a hotel room within a unique yurt setting. The yurt is an all-season structure, equipped with a "snow package" for insulation, ensuring it remains warm in winter and cool in summer. A mini-split heating and air conditioning system allows guests to control the temperature to their preference, typically set to 70°F prior to arrival. Guests will find a full bathroom plumbed with a shower, sink, and toilet, and basic toiletries such as shampoo, body wash, and towels are provided. For personal preferences, guests are encouraged to bring their own special soaps.

The kitchen area is equipped with a sink, cupboards, a mini-refrigerator, oven, and stovetop. Basic cooking materials including pots, pans, cups, plates, and silverware are supplied. However, for more extensive cooking or if cleanliness is a high priority, guests might consider bringing their own cooking utensils and pans, as some past reviews have noted these items occasionally appearing stained or dirty. A tiny fridge is available, so for longer stays or larger quantities of food, bringing a larger cooler is advisable. Complimentary coffee, including Keurig pods, sugars, and creamers, is provided for guests to start their day.

For entertainment and connectivity, the yurt offers WiFi access and a Smart TV with Netflix already logged in. This allows guests to stay connected or enjoy streaming their favorite shows after a day of exploring the Finger Lakes region. For sleeping arrangements, the main bed is a standard queen-sized bed. Additionally, there’s a futon couch that converts into a bed, and a "queen beanbag bed" which expands into a queen-sized mattress, offering a more playful and alternative sleeping option, though some adult guests have found it uncomfortable. It is crucial for guests planning to use alternative sleeping options to bring their own sheets, as this is not provided for beds other than the main one. This detail is usually communicated in the welcome email, and guests should plan accordingly.

Outdoors, guests can enjoy a fire pit, perfect for s'mores, conversations, or stargazing. Firewood is not provided, but it can be purchased from nearby stands, supporting local businesses. The outdoor area around the yurt, including the picnic table, has been noted by some guests as being overgrown or less manicured than expected. While efforts are made to trim the area, the natural setting means it may not always be pristine.

One of the standout features of Yurtin' On Keuka is its pet-friendly policy, with no additional pet fees. This makes it an attractive option for travelers who wish to bring their furry companions along. However, due to previous pet stays, guests with severe pet allergies should exercise caution or inquire further before booking. The "yurt" concept itself is a primary feature, offering a novel accommodation type that combines the feeling of camping with the comforts of a permanent structure, creating a unique "glamping" experience. The dome at the top of the yurt is a particular highlight, offering delightful views of the surrounding trees and the night sky.

A notable update from the host addresses a common concern from previous reviews: the well water. Previously, the water had a strong sulfur smell and was considered non-potable by some guests, requiring them to bring their own gallons of water for drinking, cooking, and even pseudo-showering. The host has stated that the issue with the sulfur odor in the well water has been permanently fixed as of April 7, 2025. This is a significant improvement that directly addresses a major point of contention for past visitors, enhancing the overall comfort and convenience of the stay. Additionally, a new cleaning company was contracted as of April 8, 2025, which aims to improve the cleanliness standards that were a concern for some previous guests.

Yurtin' On Keuka positions itself as an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure, appealing to those who wish to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the comforts of home. Its location along the Keuka Lake Wine Trail is a significant draw for wine enthusiasts, with recommended visits to Rooster Hill Vineyard and Weis. Dining options are also available nearby, with Casa Mezcal highly recommended by past guests.

While the concept of Yurtin' On Keuka is appealing, it's essential for prospective guests to manage their expectations based on past visitor feedback. The property has received mixed reviews, with some guests praising the unique experience, privacy, and excellent air conditioning, while others have pointed out issues with cleanliness (though a new cleaning company is now in place), the comfort of alternative sleeping arrangements (particularly the beanbag bed), and the previous water quality (now reportedly fixed). The host's communication style has also been a point of feedback, with some guests noting a lack of flexibility or assistance with simple requests.

Despite some past challenges, the host's proactive steps to address the water quality and cleaning services indicate a commitment to improving the guest experience. It is always recommended for guests to review the latest information and communicate any specific concerns with the host prior to booking to ensure their expectations align with what the property offers. For those seeking a unique, rustic, and pet-friendly glamping adventure in the Finger Lakes, Yurtin' On Keuka offers a memorable alternative to traditional hotels, inviting guests to embrace the tranquility of the woods while having access to the region's renowned wineries and natural attractions.