About Writer Camp
Camp is pretty laid back, so you’ll set most of your own schedule. Also: writer camp isn't just for writers! If you have a loved one who also enjoys hammocks, creeks, and fireflies, they're welcome to join you!
Because most fees cover lodging and food, standard camp fees apply
Writing Time
There will be plenty of time for writing. Most of the time, really, will be open writing time. That was kind of the whole impetus for this idea -- let’s go into the woods and write, all of us, editors and writers and everybody -- so we’re trying to keep this pretty simple and not pack your days full of readings or ice breakers or workshops on how to negotiate the movie rights to your memoir.
Barrelhouse staff will be available for discussion on issues of craft and the ins and outs of publication and the publishing world and pretty much anything else you want to talk about.
But! Most of the time will be open writing time. (Or reading in a hammock time! Or nap time! Or fishing in the creek time! Etc.) Again, we’ll try to keep it simple and not screw up that one component.
[Read published work that’s been started, finished, or accepted on the spot at Writer Camp]
Editor Meetings
You'll have the option to meet with an editor, and we'll make sure the timing of that meeting is worked out in advance. Like most of camp, we try to make these sessions fit your needs. If you have a specific piece that you’d like to work on, that’s great! If you’d rather sit by the creek and talk craft, or get to know what an editor looks for in a submission, that’s great too!
Outings
We usually offer a totally optional group activity each afternoon -- hiking or kayaking or something else outdoorsy, as long as the weather allows. If the weather is bad, State College still has laser tag and cute local cafes and bowling and ice cream…we’ll find something to do. Some people need a mental break and some time away from the hostel, others prefer to stay and write.
Meals
Let's talk about food, shall we?
Meals are served buffet-style. Brunch and dinner will be provided. Our hosts at Godspeed Events and Lodging are accustomed to working with dietary restrictions. Just let us know in your application if you need accommodation.
[Learn more about Godspeed Events and Lodging]
Evenings
There are only so many ways for us to say that you get to set your own schedule, but that’s pretty much the case after dinner as well. Some folks are on a writing roll, or want to enjoy some quiet time with no dishes to wash or chores to worry about. We tend to hang out and socialize after dinner. We get campers from all over the country, and they’re all doing amazing things. Evenings are a great time to make some new friends in an environment where you can say “I’m writing a young adult sci-fi novel about a teenage alien spy infiltrating a high school, and…” and not feel like a complete weirdo.
There’s also usually alcohol after dinner. All campers must be over 21 and must drink responsibly. Drinking is not mandatory, and we will never force anyone to drink. Our primary camp rule is “don’t be a jerk.”
There’s a campfire every night that it doesn’t rain. We usually watch a movie in the main event hall at some point. There have been dance parties. There has been fishing. And there are usually fireflies.
Housing
Writer Camp is hosted by Godspeed Events and Lodging in Port Matilda, PA. A family-run business hand-built to model Central American hostels, Godspeed offers single, shared, bunkhouse, and tent camping options. Whether you want to have time alone, share a few leisurely days with a friend or loved one, or kick it like your Scout days, there’s an option for you.
For Real Though, You Choose Your Own Adventure
As you can tell, this is a low-key kind of deal. Everything is optional. We know how writers roll and we will not make you participate in anything if you'd prefer to stay where you are and write, or stand off to the side and enjoy the scenery.
“Writing camp was a chance to retreat, reboot, recharge. I really enjoyed the freedom to write and read during the day and then gather together with awesome people in the evenings and chat. A beautiful location, friendly staff and editors, and none of the snootiness or structured conference-workshoppiness you might find at other places. If you’re looking for a very low-key long weekend to focus on your writing but also have a laugh, this is it.”