Earth-Based Nourishment Retreat
The weekend of the Autumnal Equinox, dedicated to balance, stillness, and elemental wisdom
SEPTEMBER 19-21
APPLE RIVER CANYON STATE PARK, IL
YOU ARE NATure
This retreat invites you to move slowly, breathe deeply, and listen — to the Sounds of nature, to your body, and to each other.
Join us for a two-night camping immersion rooted in the rhythms of the earth, designed for reconnection, restoration, and reverence. Together, we’ll walk lightly on the land, honor silence and sound, and explore our inner landscapes through nature-based practices.
This is for individuals who are called to spend time in nature and with community in deep appreciation of the natural world and want to gain a deeper awareness of themselves through a spiritual lens.
**If you are considering joining this retreat I invite you to read the full contents of this page and reach out with any questions using the contact form on this page. If you are ready to reserve your spot, please fill out the form at the bottom of this page.
What to expect
This is a guided rewilding experience rooted in elemental wisdom, ecological connection, and collective care. I’ll hold space, offer workshops, and set the rhythm for the weekend, but you are also your own guide & this retreat is as much about you listening to your inner wisdom. All activities are optional - if you need to take a break you have space to do so.
What’s Provided:
A group camp kitchen with stove, kettle, and basic staples
All meals: dinner on Friday and Saturday, breakfast on Saturday and Sunday
All workshops, meditations, and nature quests
Art + journaling supplies, little library
Warm, grounded guidance
What You Bring:
Your own camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, etc.)
Clothing for all weather
A sense of curiosity, reverence, and self-responsibility
A full packing list is provided when you register
This is also a space to learn camping skills, slow down, and get reacquainted with what it means to live with the Earth—not just on it.
Daily Flow
This retreat blends structure and spaciousness. Here’s a sample rhythm:
Morning (in noble silence until 8am):
Sunrise walk or meditation
Self-guided time: journaling, stretching, tea
Breakfast & group check-in
Midday:
Embodied listening & elemental workshops
Nature quests and solo time
Lunch and rest
Evening:
Group meals & dharma-style fire talks
Song circle or toning jam
Closing reflection under the stars
What You’ll Experience:
✧ Opening and closing circle to root in ritual and intention
✧ Daily meditation and yoga to reconnect with body and breath
✧ Nature hikes through ancient land and limestone canyons
✧ Star-gazing and sound bath under the darkest skies near Chicago
✧ Communally prepared meals (BYO snacks and snacks to share!)
✧ Optional cacao ceremony and sacred rest
✧ Campfire story sharing and song circle
✧ Art, journaling, and optional zine-making station
✧ Hammocks, naps, books — choose your own adventure
✧ A weekend of presence, permission, and peace
SIGN UP
Upon registration, you will receive a welcome packet complete with information about the land, programming, directions, and a packing list.
Support roles are available for this retreat in the form of exchange and/or discount. The retreat may benefit from those with camping and cooking skills, those who can lead a healing workshop, as well as musicians and photographers. Please email Grace at grace.theintuitivelens@gmail.com.
Read through the FAQ’s below or contact me with questions here.
I look forward to hosting you!
This reserves your seat for September 19-21 camping retreat at Apple River Canyon. You are responsible for bringing your own camping supplies such as a tent, sleeping bag, and sleep system. If you have any questions, please reach out before completing registration.
FAQ
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Nope! Beginners are welcome. This retreat is a space to learn and practice outdoor living together. We’ll go over campground basics, and you’ll have support from both me and the group.
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You’ll need your own tent, sleeping bag, and personal essentials. A detailed packing list will be sent after registration. I’ll provide a shared camp kitchen and breakfast staples.
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You’ll bring your own snacks and most meals are provided:
Shared breakfasts (provided)
One communal dinner night where we each contribute
We cook together using a shared kitchen setup with stove, water kettle, and basic pantry items.
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Yes, you’re welcome to come solo or with others. Each person needs to register individually. This is a space for connection, whether you're arriving alone or with someone you know.
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There’s a light, spacious schedule. Mornings are quiet (noble silence until 8am), and each day includes a grounding practice, nature-based teachings, and creative time. There’s lots of room for rest, exploration, and being.
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This retreat is for those seeking peace, depth, and connection—with the Earth, with self, and with others. It’s both spiritual and practical. You should be okay with rustic conditions and open to contributing to the community vibe.
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Not necessarily! If you need a custom installment plan, just reach out—I'm happy to work with you.
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Yes! After you register, you’ll receive a link to join a carpool coordination thread where we’ll help match drivers with passengers. Many folks will be coming from Chicago, and we’ll do our best to make sure everyone gets there smoothly.