An in-person writing retreat designed to inspire you, move your writing forward,
and connect you with fellow writers.
This is the in-person writing retreat many of us have been dreaming about.
BookCamp Live is for writers who are looking for uninterrupted focus, meaningful progress, and genuine connections with fellow writers who get it—all in a cozy space surrounded by quiet forests and the stillness of a private lakeside retreat.
Whether you’re craving deep work on your manuscript, insightful guidance, or the camaraderie of fellow writers, BookCamp Live will meet you there.
We’ll gather at Maryville Retreat Center in Holly, Michigan—a peaceful, wooded campus that’s perfect for stepping away from the noise and into your creative zone. Picture a simple private room with a desk and its own bathroom, quiet walking trails, campfire gatherings, a serene lake, and crisp autumn air that makes you want to curl up with your manuscript.
We’re capping BookCamp Live at 50 writers to keep it intimate, relaxed, and connection-focused.
All accommodations are private rooms unless you choose to share. We have 32 private rooms available (16 with queen beds, 16 with two twin beds), each with a desk and its own bathroom—giving you the space and quiet to focus on your writing and recharge at the end of the day. If you prefer a private room, we recommend registering early!
Prefer to share a room? A discounted double rate may be available if you arrange your own roommate. Email Chad at chad@chadrallen.com for details.
Want to bring a spouse, family member, or friend who isn’t participating in the retreat? Email Chad to explore what’s possible!
Afternoon: Arrive and settle in. Unpack, explore the grounds. Light snacks, coffee, and tea available.
5:30 PM: Dinner — Casual welcome meal and time to connect with fellow retreatants
7:00 – 8:30 PM: Welcome gathering and intention setting. Introductions, set personal goals, fireside time afterward.
7:30 AM: Optional meditation and gentle movement
8:30 AM: Breakfast
9:30 – 11:30 AM: Small group critiques and discussion
12:30 PM: Lunch
1:30 – 5:30 PM: Personal writing/retreat time; light snacks, coffee, and tea available
5:30 PM: Dinner
Evening: Fireside Chats
7:30 AM: Optional meditation and gentle movement
8:30 AM: Breakfast
9:30 – 11:00 AM: Closing session. Group reflection, share accomplishments, next steps for writing projects.
11:30 AM: Departure
The closest airport is Flint Bishop International (FNT), just a 15-minute drive away ($25–$50 via Uber or Lyft).
Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is another great option, about an hour away ($75–$125 via Uber or Lyft).
The deposit is non-refundable. For the remaining balance, cancel by October 8 for a refund. After that, your payment becomes a credit toward a future event.
We have one fully ADA room available with a roll-in shower. The property is geared toward accessibility as well. If you have specific needs, let us know—we’re committed to making this experience welcoming for everyone.
Absolutely—just let us know when you register, and we’ll do our best to accommodate.
Chad R. Allen is a writer, speaker, editor, and writing coach. A 25-year publishing professional, he has worked with such bestselling authors as Michael Hyatt, Caroline Leaf, Mark Batterson, and Phyllis Tickle.
He is the creator of BookCamp, a training center and community for writers, and Book Proposal Academy, an online course. His passion is helping writers craft must-read books that reach a large audience, and he blogs at www.chadrallen.com.
He has been published in such online places as LifeHacker, The Accidental Creative, MichaelHyatt.com, Goinswriter.com, and The Good Men Project.
Chad holds a B.A. in English from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and an M.A. in Theology from the University of Notre Dame. He and his wife, Alyssa, live with their two children in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Maryville Retreat Center is a peaceful, wooded campus nestled alongside beautiful Lake Elliott. You’ll find quiet walking trails, lakeside swings, and cozy fire rings—perfect for reflection, conversation, or simply taking a breath. It’s a true getaway that invites you to slow down, clear your mind, and focus on your writing.
You asked for it—uninterrupted writing time! Thursday and Friday afternoons are set aside for you to dive deep into your project without distractions. Whether you’re drafting new chapters, revising, or reflecting, this is your time to make meaningful progress.
For eight years, our BookCamp community has gathered via Zoom for monthly Fireside Chats and virtual S’MORES. Now we get to do it in person—next to the fire at beautiful Lake Elliott! We’ll swap stories, talk shop, and yes . . . there will be real S’MORES. It’s a chance to relax, connect, and be inspired by fellow writers in a cozy, laid-back setting.
You’ll be assigned to a small group of writers working in a similar genre. Before the retreat, you’ll submit 4–5 pages of your work. At the retreat, your group will offer thoughtful, encouraging feedback—both written and verbal—that’s designed to move your project forward. You’ll leave with clear next steps and new insights from fellow writers who truly care about your work.
If you’d like personalized feedback or help working through a challenge, you’ll be able to preschedule a one-on-one coaching session with Chad during the retreat. These focused, 20-minute sessions are available for just $50 and can be used for strategy, problem-solving, or a boost of encouragement to keep going. Spots are limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
The team at Maryville Retreat Center believes that good food fuels great writing—and great conversations. Meals are thoughtfully prepared to accommodate a variety of dietary needs and preferences, with menus that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients. You’ll enjoy delicious, nourishing meals that leave you feeling satisfied and energized for the work ahead, while sharing relaxed, meaningful conversations with fellow writers around the table.
Start your day with calm focus. Each morning we’ll offer an optional, brief meditation and gentle movement—whether it’s a light yoga session or a brisk walk outdoors. It’s a refreshing way to settle your mind and body before diving into a day of writing.
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