YouthWrite Camp
At YouthWrite’s annual camp experiences (summer, spring, fall, winter), young writers take creative risks in a space built on encouragement, not red ink. Campers are supported and mentors by real local writers, illustrators and community members.
Beyond writing, campers dive into yoga, drumming, songwriting, illustrating, cartooning, screenwriting, and improv - with performances at the Blue Pencil Café for a chance to perform what they’ve been working on.
Camp Programming
YouthWrite is Alberta's premier writing camp. The organization is an inclusive, multidisciplinary program where young writers work with professional authors and mentors across writing, visual art, music, drama, and film. Programs run throughout the year for writers ages 8 to adult, from mountain overnight camps to day camps in Edmonton and an adult retreat each fall.
Highlands Experience (Ages 8–12) | A week-long summer day camp in Edmonton where young writers expand their skills through creative writing, visual art, music, and performance, capped by a wrap-up showcase. Includes an optional overnight stay.
Peak I Experience (Ages 10–14) | A week-long overnight summer camp in the mountains near Calgary, where creative youth spend the week writing, sharing their work, and connecting with talented instructors and peers.
Peak II Experience (Ages 15–19) | A week-long overnight summer camp continuing the Peak series for older and returning teen writers ready to go deeper.
Write2Film (Ages 14–19) | A week-long overnight summer camp giving teens hands-on filmmaking experience — writing, shooting, editing, and producing a short film alongside professional instructors.
Spring Break Young Creators' Camp (Ages 8–12) | Spring break day camp for younger writers, offered in person in Edmonton or online.
JustWrite (Ages 18+) | An adult writers' retreat in the mountains each fall, pairing quality instruction with a community of fellow writers.
Dates, pricing, and registration change each season, and scholarships and early-bird rates are often available. Visit youthwrite.com for current camps and to register.
Locations & Details
Registration: First-come, first-served based on receipt of full applications and official acceptance; camps fill up quickly, so early sign-up is recommended. Scholarships are available. Writers can apply using your passion for writing through YouthWrite's list of scholarships and grants
Camp Locations: Specific retreat/camp venues vary by program (mountain retreats, overnight camp sites); check each individual camp page for exact location details
Register for Camp: YouthWrite Camp