Custom Retreats

Barn Patio at Sunset

“I’m still marveling over my five days at the Foundation. The [facility] is an absolute gem and a terrific find. I can’t believe something so ideal for writers of any genre or profession is available here…” (Brad Ivie)

Schedule Your Own All-Inclusive Workshop or Retreat

Host your group at the Barn at Boyds Mills with our turnkey custom retreat services.  Every member of your group will enjoy comfortable lodging, with private accommodations and bathrooms and three farm-fresh meals per day with unlimited drinks and snacks.

We also have meeting and event spaces with AV capabilities.

Writing & Critique Groups

Is your writing or critique group looking for a place to spend time together, in person? Consider our campus. Our team will work with you to make sure you group members are situated in productive accommodations, with space available for group meetings if you need it.

learning-by-river
Prospect-Agency-Group

Corporate & Agency Retreats

Schedule your turn-key corporate retreat or team-building event at the Barn at Boyds Mills.  We take care of the transportation, accommodations, and food so you can focus on spending time with your team.

Higher Education & Scholarly Groups

Work on your thesis, host a residency, or make progress on a group project while on campus.  We’ll take care of all the logistics.

WCSU-smartboard
loft-aerial-group-shot

Association & Regional Groups

Schedule your turn-key event at the Barn at Boyds Mills. Our team will work with you to plan your event from conception to execution, ensuring that every detail is perfect for your attendees.

Ready to host your group here?

From critique groups and clubs to businesses and organizations, we’d be happy to host you.
 Contact us for availability and a quote.  We’ll deliver unparalleled hospitality for your group, all in support of the mission of the Highlights Foundation.

“We were nurtured and given the space to blossom and flow. The retreat was incredibly productive. I made a breakthrough in my writing. We had both space and community when we sought it.” (Tessa Rossi)

Where We Are

Workshops for Writers & Illustrators

> Online
> In-Person
> On-Demand (Self-Paced Online)

New to the Highlights Foundation? Try these:

The Crash Course | The Whole Novel Workshop | Summer Camp

Questions?

Need help deciding on a workshop?  Ask an ambassador!

Visiting Our Campus

Our campus (The Barn at Boyds Mills) is tucked away in the foothills of the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania.  It's a few hours from both New York City and Philadelphia, but worlds away from everyday life.

Line drawing of the Barn at Boyds Mills

Our Mission in Action

Scholarships
Equity & Inclusion in Kidlit
Sustainability

The Highlights Foundation positively impacts children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who inform, educate, and inspire children to become their best selves.  Learn more about our impact.

For Businesses & Organizations

Fund a Scholarship
Partner with Us