August 14-18, 2024 at The Outlier Inn in Woodbridge, New York!

Picture this: it’s the tail end of Summer 2024. The magnificent August sun is sinking behind miles of maples and oaks. The last few rays of daylight pour through the leaves, like chinks in medieval armor, dappling the rich earth. You’re sipping apple cider, listening to verses and sonnets from some of the world’s most prolific poets, surrounded by a new, transformative poetic community. Sounds like heaven? We think so, too!

We know that living in modern society is difficult, and everybody sooner or later wants to pull a Thoreau: escape commercialism, go into a dense forest, and write. Embrace your inner transcendentalist and come to Poetry Camp, PSNY’s very own summer camp and annual writing retreat run by a wild lot of poets! 

Poetry Camp encourages all attendees—whether they are poets, poetry-lovers, or even poets-to-be—to cultivate their sense of childlike wonder. It is first and foremost a writing retreat (with free time to write allotted). Those wishing to delve deeply into their craft can attend Seminars and intimate Small Group Workshops with some of the world’s most iconic poets. Previous instructors have included Terrance Hayes (National Book Award Winner), Ariana Reines (Obie Award Winner), Matthew Yeager (Best American Poetry), and more. 

If you’re not a poet, have no fear! This five-day, four-night retreat (August 14th to 18th, 2024) only 90 miles from Manhattan will feature fun for everyone! Each day will be packed to the brim with opt-in activities. Families can bond over Arts and Crafts, including paper, button, cyanotype bookmark, and broadside making. Old and new friends can compete during our daily Cabin Clashes. Poetry Camp prioritizes belonging and community, and at the end of each day, everyone will come together for a Salon, homemade dinner, and a campfire.

At Poetry Camp, you can rest easy knowing that The Outlier Inn has accommodations for everyone on the outdoorsy spectrum. If you’re a rugged soul, you can bring your own tent and pitch it on property grounds. If you’re more of a glamper than a camper, you can book the property’s picturesque Tiny House, Airstream Trailer, Geodesic Dome, Bungalow, or Cottage! Each rental has its own unique charm; for example, if you want a clawfoot tub, check out the Geodesic Dome, but if you’re looking for a more modern stay, The Cottage has a Smart TV and A/C!  No matter where you stay, all campers will have access to communal outdoor showers, outdoor kitchens, and outhouses, as well as a communal hot tub, sauna, swimming pond, and fire pit. All kitchens are fully equipped with cooking and dining ware, WiFi is available throughout campgrounds, and all water on the property is potable. Most importantly, all attendees will be within walking distance of an honest-to-goodness Alpaca Farm!

We at The Poetry Society of New York strive to produce financially accessible events, so as such, our Work-Study Admission starts at $450 (evening out to $90/day). Our Early Bird General and VIP Admission last until January 1st, and will go up from $650 to $725 and $800 to $950 respectively. All admission includes three home-cooked meals—which accommodates dietary restrictions—daily, snacks, and access to seminars, workshops, and other group activities. Attendees may bring and set up their own tent for no extra charge, share accommodations with another camper, or book one of the available on-site accommodations.

If you’re a wordsmith looking to unleash your creativity, share in our love of language, and create poetic magic—all in the middle of the woods—join us next summer! Let your words flow freely in a supportive and inspiring environment! Take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and find solace in the power of poetry! For tickets and more information, please visit the button below!