Club History

A Great Escape Since 1889

The Elka Park Association & Club is a historic cooperative community founded in the late nineteenth century as a summer retreat for German-Americans, primarily from New York City. The association was incorporated in 1889 by members of the Liederkranz Club of New York, and the name "Elka" refers to the German letters for "L" and "K". 

Following the completion of the original Club House in 1890, the founding members of Elka Park began to construct their own cottages. A total of 21 homes were built between 1890 and 1896. Today, 17 original cottages remain while two others were rebuilt in 1997. A carriage house originally constructed in the 1910s was converted into a 20th cottage. The original Club House was destroyed in a fire in the 1950’s and was rebuilt with a more modest mid-century design with eight accompanying lodge rooms for guests. The Club House was renovated in 2023.

Today, the Elka Park Association & Club continues to thrive focused on promoting social engagement, camaraderie, and just plain fun. With a full calendar of events, the season extends from early May through mid-October.