Still + Wild: A Women's Weekend in the Dunes

September 26–28, 2025 | Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area

Are you craving dedicated time to step away from the day to day, put your phone aside and give your brain, body and soul a break? Join us for a weekend in the dunes and allow the waves, wind and trees to reset your system and settle your soul. 

A mix of relaxation, fun, connection and healing this mini retreat is meant to offer space for whatever it is you need. This is a mini wilderness retreat for those seeking something real, restorative, and a little bit wild. Come as you are. 

🌲 The Experience

Plan to arrive at Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Nurnberg Trailhead on Friday, 9/26 between 3-7pm to allow time to hike into the site before dark. Departure will be mid-day Sunday, 9/28.

Activities (all optional) will include:

-Hiking

-Journaling

-Talking to Trees

-Breathwork

-Cold Plunge (or just plunge, depending on lake temps)

-Movement practices

-Fireside chats 

-Free time

And some fun surprises - we can’t give it all away!

This is a great opportunity to get comfortable with camping and exploring the outdoors with the comfort of experienced guides and most necessary supplies provided. Whether you’re brand new to backcountry camping or a seasoned outdoorswoman, we’ve got you. This is a beginner-friendly, supportive environment with experienced guides, shared supplies, and a thoughtful pace.

🏕️ What’s Included? We have two packages available, both of which include:

• All meals, snacks & water
• Group camping supplies (tables, fire supplies, TP, etc.)
• All retreat activities & materials
• Goody bags!
• 2 experienced wilderness guides/retreat leaders

Happy Camper Package: bring your own sleeping setup - tent/hammock, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, etc. 

Happy Camper *Plus* Package: we supply your full sleeping setup - tent, sleeping pad and sleeping bag.

You are welcome to share sleeping accommodations with a friend or two, that does not change the price per person. This event is appropriate for 21 years of age or older.

FAQ:

What is the camp site like and are there bathrooms?

This is back country camping. You will park at the trailhead and hike approximately 2 miles into a location that is set within the woods along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. There are not numbered sites, showers or bathrooms. We will have the supplies for using nature as your bathroom and will review “leave no trace” principles.

How do I get there?

You will be responsible for your own transportation. Once we have the group set, we will start a private Facebook group where you are welcome to coordinate with other participants to carpool. 

What do I need to bring?

We’ll send a full packing list closer to the event. You’ll need your personal items (clothing, towel, etc.) and sleeping gear if you choose the basic package.

I have never done backcountry camping and am nervous about it, will I be OK?

Absolutely! This is a perfect entry point. Caitlin and Alison are experienced guides who will support you every step of the way. Our site will not be too far from the parking area and we will be able to hike out with you to your car if the experience becomes too much. We have all needed safety gear and training should you become uncomfortable. With that said, we ask that you self assess to ensure you are willing and able to commit to the experience. 

Will there be cell service?

Service is very spotty in Noordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area and you should not plan on it. You are free to hike out whenever you want/need. 

What if it rains?

We’ll still be there! We’ll be prepared for a variety of weather and plan to bring extra tarps to help keep us dry and cozy. Some activities may be adjusted depending on conditions, but rain is part of the wild experience—and can even make it more magical. We just ask that you pack accordingly (we’ll include wet-weather tips in your packing list!).

In the event of severe weather, we’re a short drive from Ludington and will prioritize everyone’s safety.

What type of healing/growth work will we be doing?

This retreat is intended to invite you to go inward, but it is not intended for deep exploration and healing (although we know that can often happen unexpectedly!) We are offering activities that will allow you to go as far within as you wish. The overall intention is meant for participants to reconnect with themselves, nature and other humans in a wild and playful manner. Please know both Caitlin and Alison are trained in trauma-informed work and can hold space if something arises.

Refund Policy:

We ask that you ensure you are fully committed before signing up, however we know life happens. 

- 50% refund for cancellations is available up to September 5th. 

- No refunds will be given after that for any reason.

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Free Soil, Workshops in Free Soil.