The gathering is full of multiple different camps that focus on different spiritual, practical, musical, regional and other aspects of life. Each time we gather, the mix of camps is different. That being said, we usually have a camp or two focused on Jesus, a camp or two focused on providing free health care in the woods, a camp or two focusing on land based survival skills, a camp or two focused on various styles of music. Some people create camps and kitchens based on where they live, others on what they like to do: Yoga, make drums, or do theater and performance arts.
Seed camp is still ongoing so many of the camps aren't set up yet. If you're planning to come to the gathering and don't already have a clan or tribe you intend to hook up with, when you get into the gathering, go to the INFO booth and there's usually a map set up with all the camps that have been established. If you're looking to camp in a quiet place or a place with 24/7 drumming, folks at INFO can help you find the right space.
We've got spaces focused on kids, baking bread, a bunch of kitchens with different cooking styles. We've got camps for people who do 12-step programs like AA and NA. We often have a Jewish camp, a Krishna camp, a camp focused on the health and healing of dogs and often a separate one for cats. I've heard rumor that we're going to have an arts and crafts camp this year. Most years we have at least one place focusing on popcorn. Many camps post signs to help weary hikers find certain spaces.
If you do plan on coming for a week or just an afternoon, getting from where you leave your car into the gathering can be a half a days journey. It's not the distances, but the slow pace of walking around the gathering trying to find what you're seeking, meeting new people and getting involved in cooking soup. We have an expression called "Rainbow Time." Things more more slowly at the gathering and time is measured by sunrise and sunset, dark thirty and high noon. You'll need to leave your car and hike to really experience just what is happening as what's on the road is just a small fraction of what the gathering manifests.
Sturdy shoes and a good canteen are important. Don't forget to bring a bowl and a spoon. The food is free, but you have too provide your own utensils and hot beans in an open hand isn't the greatest way to eat.
ALL sound advice. And if Krishna Camp shows up, they DEF have the best chow in the woods. Support them with fetching firewood or helping with cleanups. Their red tea is the BEST!
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