In 1929, the NYC Mission Society, in collaboration with several Harlem churches, opened their very first sleep-away summer camp serving African American children from the inner city. This camp served the children of the Harlem community for 50 years and treated them to a remarkable retreat in nature. For most campers, this remains one of the greatest memories of their lives, and years later, camp alumni still return to their beloved campground for reunions.

When the Karvellas family purchased the property in 1986, the land had been desolate for years. Appreciating the natural beauty of the property, Steve and Lisa Karvellas looked past the six-foot-tall weeds and envisioned something special. With their eldest daughters Stephanie and Lisa still toddlers, and their third daughter, Gina on the way, the couple decided to return the property to its camp roots and opened Team USA Gymnastics and Soccer Camp. The camp operated for many years, growing each year and ultimately serving as a training facility for elite athletes, including many Olympic gold medalists and World Cup soccer players. The three Karvellas daughters spent their summer days trampling through the sun-drenched camp, never dreaming that someday this place would become their life’s work.

Once grown, Stephanie and Lisa decided to build a business where they could foster their love for food, event planning, and affection for their childhood home. They resurrected the breathtaking property once again, building charming cottages, a modern barn, and stunning venues used for weddings and retreats. Now operating as the business’s co-founders, they work each day to share their combined passions with their visitors.