OREGON WRITING RETREAT
NOVEMBER 30TH - DECEMBER 3RD
NovelBound Writing Retreats are changing the narrative.
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Ever dreamed of attending a writing retreat, but felt daunted by the price tag, competitive atmosphere, or stuffy feel? We get it. Many retreats can feel out of reach (or, let's be real, just kind of boring).
Our retreats are writing and community-focused at an accessible price, because we believe experiences like this should be for everyone.
For our next NovelBound writing retreat, we’re heading to the Oregon Coast, where ocean air, forest trails, and creative energy come together in the best way.
This isn’t one of those stuffy, super-serious retreats. Yes, we’re here to write (and trust us, you will get writing done). But we’re also big believers that great stories come from actually living life. In between workshops, critique circles, agent-led sessions, and writing sprints, there’s room for laughter, spontaneous beach walks, cozy hangs, and all the little moments that refill your creative well.
Whether you’re deep in a draft or just trying to find your way back to the page, this weekend is built to meet you where you're at and give you the boost you need to move forward.
You’ll leave with pages, tools, and direction, but also new writer friends and a community that sticks around long after the retreat ends.
We can’t wait to write with you on the coast. This is going to be a good one.
Writing chats, beach walks, and cozy fireside moments await.
From fireside writing chats to hands-on workshops and coastal hikes, this weekend is packed with options, but how you spend your time is entirely up to you.
We’ve crafted a schedule full of agent sessions, critique circles, writing sprints, crafts, beach walks, and more. But nothing is mandatory. Want to attend every workshop? Amazing. Prefer to sip hot chocolate and write by the fire? Also perfect.
This is your space to recharge, get inspired, and connect with other writers at your own pace. Think of it as a “build your own retreat” experience, with the freedom to lean into what you need most.
We can’t wait to welcome you.
We've created our scheduled itinerary to be buildable so you can create the experience that you want! All activities are optional.
Note: some aspects and scheduling may change, but this is what we currently have planned:
Afternoon: Check-in and room assignments
Afternoon: Welcome, intros, and some free writing time
6:30pm: Dinner
8pm: PJ Party + Book Exchange
9:30pm: Twilight Screening
8am: Breakfast
9:15am: Group Session with Literary Agent Jessica Berg
11am: Lunch
12:15pm: Choose your own event (including a synopsis workshop with Jessica)
3:30pm: Critique Circle
6pm: Dinner
7:30pm: Community Writing Conversation
8:30pm: Free writing time, hang out, snacks
7am: Optional guided hike or beach walk
8am: Breakfast
9:30am: Choose your own event (including a synopsis workshop with Jessica)
11:15am: Group session with Jessica Berg
12:30pm: Lunch
2:30pm: Free time. Options include:
Mini Golf
Hiking
Boardwalk walk
Bonfire on the beach
Crafts
Headshots with Kym
6pm: Dinner & Open-mic session
7:30pm: Campfire Q&A session with Jessica Berg
8am: Breakfast and packing
9:30am: Last group session with Jessica Berg
11am: Checkout and Goodbyes
Roundtrip shuttle will depart at 11am sharp
MEET OUR RETREAT SPECIAL GUEST
Jessica Berg is a literary agent and the founder of Rosecliff Literary. She’ll be joining us for the entire course of the retreat to host workshops, lead discussions, and offer 1:1 office hours.
Jessica Berg is passionate about nurturing unique voices in publishing. As an agent with Rosecliff Literary, she focuses on character-driven stories and high-stakes narratives, helping authors navigate the industry. As an author, her own fiction explores identity, generational trauma, and relationships. A multi-nominated writer with an MFA from Spalding University, Berg is a member of the AALA and EFA. She also provides developmental feedback for Writer’s Digest, Uncharted Magazine, and Fractured Lit. She is represented by Amy Collins of Talcott Notch.
Included in your experience:
ALL MEALS, SNACKS, & DRINKS
Plus endless hot cocoa, tea + coffee
WELCOME GIFT
Can’t tell you what’s in it (yet), but if past retreats are any clue…you’ll want extra room in your suitcase.
MOVIE NIGHT
This retreat we'll be providing a screening of Twilight with all the movie night snacks of your dreams (looking at you homemade chocolate chip cookies). Hold on tight, spider monkey.
FREE TIME OPTIONS
You'll have the opportunity to walk along the beach, take a hike into the PNW woods, complete a boardwalk stroll, roast marshmallows over a bonfire, play a round of mini golf, grab a latte from the coffee shop only a 2 minute walk from your room, take a trip to town, spend some quiet time writing, and so much more.
RETREAT CENTER GROUNDS AND VIEWS
Where we're staying is ringed by the ocean, forested mountains, and a lake with a wetlands boardwalk stroll. You'll have full access to wander around the grounds to find the perfect place to write and relax.
ACCESS TO EXCLUSIVE NOVELBOUND RETREAT ATTENDEE DISCORD CHANNEL
A popular return from our last retreat. This group will start before the retreat and will be left open afterward for you to continue chatting with the new friends you make.
COMFORTABLE, MODERN, and ADA ACCESSIBLE ACCOMMODATION
Your choice of room to build your own experience + a modern private bathroom (or two for those in the cabin).
GUIDED HIKE OR BEACH WALK
Get inspiration for your writing by getting out into the beautiful PNW nature.
CRITIQUE GROUP
Get feedback on 10 pages of any of your selected works. You'll receive detailed feedback on your pages plus will hear in-person what people thought in a round-table type conversation
GROUP SESSIONS WITH LITERARY AGENT JESSICA BERG
Jessica will be leading conversations around querying and synopses - perfect for BOTH indie and trad authors (really!).
At NovelBound we prefer to view writing as hobby vs career rather than indie vs trad. No matter your writing goals, you will be able to get significant gains out of this retreat.
ADD-ONS FOR EVEN MORE OPTIONS
Professional author branding shots, 1:1 sessions with literary agent Jessica Berg (don't worry, we will also have plenty of group sessions with her, too!), and round-trip transportation to the retreat location from the airport will be available as add-ons, so you can truly make this retreat your own.
note: Round-trip transportation from the airport to the retreat location will be available with add-on pricing. Please note, if you opt out of this option, you will need to provide your own transportation. Airfare is not included.
Photos by Kym DeHoney.
WHAT OUR PAST ATTENDEES ARE SAYING
If someone is debating whether a writing retreat would be beneficial to them the answer is a definite yes. We learned and discussed so many different aspects of writing that no matter where you’re at as a writer there was room for growth and time to develop those skills.
Dessie S.
I loved making new friends, I loved talking to people about my book and seeing how excited people were about what I was writing—it was just such a breath of fresh air and such a nice, welcome respite from being a very solitary person in my day-to-day life.
Landry P.
It was a phenomenal, life-giving experience. It was so impactful getting to connect with so many creative, kind, welcoming folks and have the opportunity to grow as a writer.
Colleen C.
SANDWICHED BETWEEN FOREST AND SEA*, THERE'S A ROOM FOR EVERYONE
*We're not kidding! Step outside and you’re less than a minute from forested hiking trails, and a private bridge will lead you to the beach in under five. It’s all right there, just for us.
Cabin Room
A double or twin-sized bed in a group cabin.
$850
OR
3 installments of
$284
*NovelBound members receive a $50 discount
You and up to seven others! Total sleepaway camp vibes (but with modern and comfortable amenities)!
Two private ADA bathrooms
All linens included
Only a short walk from main activities
Compare NovelBound with other similar retreats:
NovelBound is the only retreat that offers this accommodation option
Our most popular option!
Shared Lodge Room
Come with a friend or we'll match you with a roommate :)
$1100
OR
3 installments of
$367
*NovelBound members receive a $50 discount
Hotel-style accommoations
You and one other
Queen + twin bed (first come, first served)
In the same building as all main activities
Compare NovelBound with other similar retreats:
average pricing: $1500-3000 for a shared room
Single Lodge Room
Private hotel-style lodge accommodations.
$1500
OR
3 installments of
$500
*NovelBound members receive a $50 discount
Private, hotel-style room
Private ADA bathroom
Queen bed
In the same building as all main activities
Compare NovelBound with other similar retreats:
average pricing: $1900-5000 for a single room
Every room is tucked among towering trees and just a breath away from the wild Oregon coast.
You’ll stay in our cozy hotel-style rooms or cabin, complete with comfy beds, modern bathrooms, air conditioning/heat, and windows that open to ocean breezes or woodland stillness. It’s the perfect mix of peaceful and practical, even for high-maintenance sleepers.
Want your own space? Choose a solo room.
Open to sharing? Book a shared room. After securing your spot, you can let us know if you have a preferred roommate.
Down for a sleepover? The cabin experience is calling your name!
Keep scrolling for more room info!
The Cabin Room
Camp sleepaway vibes
All linens and towels included
2 ADA accessible and private bathrooms
Double and twin beds available (first come, first served, excepting disabilities where we will make sure you have what you need!)
Welcome gift
All food, drinks, and snacks included
A short walk from main activities
Up to 8 people may book in a cabin
The Shared Lodge Room
You and one other in a shared, hotel-style lodge room
Come with a friend or we'll match you with a roommate. Almost all our attendees come without knowing anyone - that will change within the first day of the retreat :)
A private, modern bathroom
All linens and towels included
Welcome gift
All food, drinks, and snacks included
The Single Lodge Room
A queen bed in hotel-style lodge accommodations
All linens and towels included
A completely private, modern bathroom
Welcome gift
All food, drinks, and snacks included
Once you're in, you'll get to pick your retreat track
At this retreat, you get to design the experience that fits your writing goals best.
After you register, you’ll have the chance to pick your retreat track. That could mean diving into a critique circle, signing up for professional headshots, joining structured writing sessions, or keeping your schedule more open for beach walks, crafts, and quiet drafting time.
No two writers are in the same season, and that’s the beauty of it. Your selections will help us group you with others who’ve chosen a similar flow, so you can connect with people working toward the same kind of experience, whether that’s intensive feedback or creative rest.
You’ll get to finalize your choices ahead of the retreat, so everything’s ready when you arrive.
Optional Add-Ons
Available at booking
15 Minute Author Photo Session
Need a fresh headshot or dreamy author photo? Book a 15-minute mini-session with professional photographer Kym DeHoney.
Check out her work here: https://www.kymdehoneyphotography.com/.
Transportation to Retreat Site
Make your arrival stress-free by booking round-trip transportation directly to the retreat location. This shuttle will pick you up from the airport on November 30th and take you straight to the retreat (and back at the end).
You'll receive the shuttle pick-up time after purchase. Please wait to book your flight until then.
20 Minute 1:1 with Jessica Berg
Get dedicated, one-on-one time with literary agent Jessica Berg to focus on your query letter, manuscript feedback, publishing questions, career strategy, or whatever you'd like. Spots are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Note: this is not meant to be used for a pitch event
QUALITY IS KEY
One of our co-founders took a trip to Oregon to make sure our retreat location was up to NovelBound standards. It passed with flying colors!
FAQs
You can work on any genre or project you choose! Whether it's a novel, memoir, short stories, poetry, or a non-fiction work, the dedicated time and supportive environment are designed to help you make progress on your unique project.
NovelBound Retreats are designed to be community-focused and accessible. While you'll gain valuable industry knowledge and dedicated writing time, a core component is fostering real-life friendships and a supportive network, without the often high price tag or overly prestigious atmosphere of some other retreats.
We aim to keep our groups intimate to foster strong connections and ensure personalized attention. The exact number may vary based on the retreat, so our attendance ranges from 10-30 participants.
Our retreats are for writers of all levels – from aspiring authors just starting out to those deep into a manuscript. Some NovelBound retreats may have different focuses, but in general, our retreats are for those looking for focused writing time, valuable learning, and a supportive community.
Our retreats are all-inclusive! This typically covers comfortable housing, delicious meals and snacks, valuable learning experiences, industry discussions, and a special gift bag. Please check the specific retreat page for exact inclusions, as they may vary slightly.
Airfare/transportation to and from the retreat location is not included. However, depending on the location, we sometimes offer a shuttle service from the airport. Personal expenses, extra snacks or beverages outside of scheduled meals and provided snacks (though don't worry––we provide PLENTY), and any optional excursions not listed as included would also be your responsibility.
Absolutely! We strive to accommodate all dietary needs. Please let us know about any restrictions or allergies when you register so we can make the necessary arrangements with our caterers.
We prioritize comfortable and conducive environments for writing and connection. Accommodations may vary by location (e.g., private rooms, shared rooms with private baths), but will always be clean, comfortable, and designed to enhance your retreat experience. Specific details will be provided on each retreat's individual page.
Not at all! Whether you're brainstorming a new idea, working on a first draft, or polishing a manuscript, our retreats are designed to support you at any stage of your writing journey.
A detailed packing list will be provided upon registration. Generally, you'll want to bring your writing tools (laptop, notebooks, pens), comfortable clothing, personal toiletries, and any specific materials related to your writing project.
Attendees must be at least 18 years old to participate in NovelBound Retreats.
All initial deposits are non-refundable. If you cancel at least 30 days before the retreat, you'll receive a 50% refund on any additional installment payments (excluding your deposit). Cancellations made within 30 days of the event are non-refundable in full. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for unforeseen circumstances.
While we encourage participation to get the most out of the community and learning experiences, all activities are optional. This is your retreat, and you are welcome to choose what best supports your writing and well-being.
Many of our attendees come solo and leave with new, lasting friendships! The community-focused nature of our retreats makes it easy to connect with others, whether you arrive alone or with a friend.
Depending on the retreat, yes! Our retreats often include industry discussions and opportunities to connect with facilitators or guest speakers who can offer valuable insights and connections.
Yes! Our schedule balances structured learning and communal activities with ample dedicated quiet time for you to focus on your writing projects without distraction.
Our retreats often include facilitated critique circles designed to provide constructive and supportive feedback on your work. They are optional, and the amount of feedback will vary based on the group size and schedule, but all participants will have opportunities to share and receive insights.
Critique circles are a valuable part of the experience, but sharing is always optional. You'll still benefit from listening to feedback given to others and learning from the discussions, even if you choose not to share your own work. Our focus is on supportive and constructive feedback.
The connections you make at a NovelBound Retreat are often just the beginning! We encourage you to stay connected through NovelBound membership, our discord, and our social media channels.
NovelBound writing retreats are changing the narrative.
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