Comics Camp
A retreat in the southeast Alaska rainforest for working artists to connect, learn, explore, and relax.
Our comics camp takes place in the middle of the southeast Alaska rainforest. There’s a loosely organized schedule of workshops and conversations along with plenty of hanging out and tromping around in the woods and nearby ocean beach. A professional development conference for people who don’t like conference rooms.
The campground is a nice balance of rustic and civilized. We’ll be tucked away in the trees but still have access to flushing toilets, hot water for showers and even a camp cook. We’ll have campfires, board games and all the fun camp things along with presentations, workshops and discussions led by our professional peers.
Who it's for
The comics camp is primarily geared towards professionals working in comics and visual storytelling but we’re happy to have cross pollination from game developers, authors, musicians, journalists, filmmakers, and others who work in forms adjacent to sequential artists, cartoonists and animators.
Pricing
The cost of the camp is $800. This includes lodging for four nights at the campground plus camp meals and transportation to and from downtown Juneau. If you would like to exhibit at the convention you also receive an exhibition space.
Financial aid is available to camp applicants who need it and requests for financial aid do not factor into the review of your application.
Questions?
Have questions or need details? You can find a packing list and more in the FAQ below, or feel free to contact us.
First two photos by Tony Cliff. Thanks, Tony!
Comics Camp FAQ
Folks going to comics camp after the Mini-Con must apply to attend.
We made a video tour of the campsite so you can judge for yourself! (This video was made in late March, so it looks colder than it is in May.)
May is one of our drier and sunnier months, but do be prepared for possible rain and overcast skies. Temperature averages around 43 °F (6.2 °C) low to 58 °F (14 °C) high.
The cabins are heated and you can take a hot shower anytime. Cabins have bunk beds with mattresses.
Yes, there is power. But no internet/wifi or cell/mobile service (see the next FAQ).
We can drive you to where your phone works, or you can get a connection if you take an easy hike out to the beach about 15 minutes away. Most campers quickly adapt and everyone is much more engaged without the constant phone distractions.
Don’t worry! Everything will be there when you get back to service. Many campers have told us how restful it is to take a break for a few days and reset.
Not really. It can vary by year. Usually there are a few mosquitoes here and there but it is often bug free. We supply insect repellent of various types for those who would like it. And you won’t have to worry about ticks at all so feel free to go roll around in the tall grass.
Southeast Alaska is home to both black and brown bears (brown bears are less common around Juneau). We have never seen any bears at the camp. They tend to stay away from a big group of campers. We supply bear spray and local volunteers if you would like to go for a hike.
This is a welcoming and socially comfortable event. You can participate according to your own comfort level and there are plenty of quiet spaces to retreat to and take breaks.
Our application has a dedicated section regarding food allergies and restrictions to ensure that allergens are omitted. Each meal will also have vegan and gluten-free options. Contact us if you have any concerns.
Nova the black lab has been at the camp most years. She is getting up there in years and will spend most of the time on a couch. Nova is sweet, gentle, loves pets, and is an experienced model for sketches.
Brio the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel often makes an appearance. Brio loves to chase whatever the wind blows, likes belly rubs, and enjoys licking himself.
There may be other dogs present depending on who volunteers. Some years had no dogs around.
Let us know if you are allergic to dogs and the animals can stay home. Or if you simply prefer the animals keep their distance. We will make sure they only interact with those who want to.
- Sleeping bag*
- Pillow*
- Toiletries
- Any medications
- Boots or shoes that keep water out
- Slippers or some sort of comfy cabin shoes
- Shower shoes (optional)
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Layers! Including:
- waterproof coat/raincoat
- a warm layer under your raincoat (fleece, puffy coat, wool sweater, etc)
- extra socks
- warm hat
- scarf and light gloves if you run cold
- Also a good idea: art supplies, notebooks or sketchbooks, games, ghost stories.
* We have a limited number of pillows and sleeping bags if you don’t have any or don’t have room in your luggage. Let us know ahead of time.
If you forget something it is a 5 minute walk to the IGA grocery store right next to the Mini-Con at the Alaska State Museum.
We will provide meals, snacks, drinks (including coffee/tea), towels, and various comfort items (ear plugs, ibuprofen, etc). If you need anything just ask!
We will provide all transportation! Campers will take a bus directly from the Mini-Con in downtown Juneau. The ride is about 45 minutes with some great views of the mountains, glaciers, ocean, and maybe you’ll even see a black bear eating dandelions by the road.
Campers will be provided rides back to the airport with plenty of time for your flight home.