Imagine...
An opportunity to explore and grow in different areas of your writing and creativity....
A place where you can receive support and connect with peers and professionals...
A classroom of tall trees, quiet fields, and waterfalls...
A weekend that brings more joy to your hobby or career...
Class Descriptions
Keynote - Why Write? with Stephanie Kendrick
Why Write?: Appreciating the gravity of words and setting intentions for our practice.
Stephanie will discuss the many forms of self-expression, celebrating all, but establishing a distinction regarding the art of writing. Participants will explore the “writer” part of their identity, answering the question “why do I write?”, and considering another question: “what will I do with my writing?” This session will include some independent writing, so bring your preferred writing tools.
Leaning Into Your Voice with Stephanie Kendrick
Participants will learn about the concept of “voice” in writing. We'll read works from strong voices in poetry and prose. Participants will be guided through a few exercises to hone their own voice, and may leave with a first draft of something great.
Making Every Word Count with Tadgh Bentley
Great writing isn’t about adding more—it’s about choosing better. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll explore the art of economy: how to cut with intention, trust the reader, and let implication do the heavy lifting. Through guided exercises, participants will trim their own work, experiment with omission, and discover how fewer words can carry more weight. Suitable for writers of any genre.
Lyrics, Melody and the Dynamics of the Musician in the Wild with Jesse Henry
This class will be part discussion and part participation. We'll explore reaching deeper into one’s creative source; vocally, musically, and theoretically. We'll examine how to work with something upon discovery and when to stop.
Plus...
-Morning writing practice
-Guided Hikes
-Yoga
-Watercolor
-Drum Circle
-Writers Open Mic
The retreat experience
Logistics
Camp Oty' Okwa offers community bunkhouse lodging in Sebring Lodge. The lodge is a shared bunkhouse-style dorm with indoor restrooms and showers. They also offer on-site tent camping a short walk to the bathhouse.
If you choose to vehicle camp, commute from home, or find your own lodging, please let us know in your registration.
Camp meals are included and served buffet-style in the Dining Lodge. Camp strives to accommodate dietary needs, but you might want to supplement with your own food if you have complex needs. Saturday dinner is catered by Chelsea's Real Food (mobile kitchen serving made-from-scratch, locally- sourced, gluten free prepared foods.)
We attempt to accommodate all individuals, however, due to the terrain, some activities might be challenging to those with physical limitations.
Please reach out to us with question.
accomodations
Sebring Lodge
Sebring Lodge
Sebring Lodge
The lodge is a community bunkhouse divided into four large rooms. Each room sleeps up to 10 people who share an attached restroom with showers. The building has electricity and heating. It has a two-level back porch overlooking a wooded hillside.
Tent Camping
Sebring Lodge
Sebring Lodge
Bring your tent and camp in the field under the stars or under the trees in the shade. A bathhouse is available for tent and vehicle campers.
Photos of facilities
