Bearnstow Grounds
- What can I expect in terms of the grounds?
- Bearnstow lies on 65 acres of pristine woodland, bordering the serene Parker Pond in Mount Vernon, Maine. 12 historic buildings are nestled along the 2,400 feet (732 m) of rocky shoreline. When walking around you can expect pine needle grounds with the occasional root in your way, and to always have a stellar view of Parker Pond from almost any point at camp. Learn more about Bearnstow’s history here.
- Where will I be sleeping while at Bearnstow?
- Bearnstow offers shared housing for guests in our onsite cabins, each of which is equipped with its own front porch and rocker. The historic cabins have rustic charm but are outfitted with modern conveniences of full bathrooms with hot water and electricity. See Accommodations page for more information, including off site housing options.
- Is Bearnstow handicap accessible?
- Unfortunately because Bearnstow is quite woodsy with irregular walking paths and has many stone steps, it is not an ideal place for individuals with significant physical handicaps. Contact us via email to inquire about access needs.
- Can I swim in Parker Pond?
- ABSOLUTELY! Parker Pond is a pristine glacial lake, and Bearnstow has 3 main swimming spots for you to enjoy. We also have some kayaks and canoes if you want to go out and explore!
- Does Bearnstow have wifi?
- We have wifi at camp, however we are in the woods and as you may expect, it is not always perfect. If you ever are struggling with the wifi connection and need to do something that requires a stronger signal, the Mt. Vernon library is a 5 min drive away and has nearly perfect wifi that is available to all.

Preparing to Arrive
- What should I bring for my stay at Bearnstow?
- We recommend you bring clothing that is comfortable to move in, and you don’t mind getting a little dirty, warm layers (It can get very chilly, especially at night), a bathing suit, waterproof shoes, rain gear, a headlamp/ flashlight, bug spray, and earth friendly shower products (soap is provided). We also have a small “camp store” of supplies for purchase if you forget anything, as well as a nearby convenience store.
- What are your COVID policies?
- We require all overnight guests to be fully vaccinated for Covid-19. Because we are coming together to share space and meals from all over, to limit risk and exposure, we are asking that all guests get tested before or on arrival.
- How do I get to Bearnstow?
- If you are driving you should enter 84 Bearnstow road, Mount Vernon, ME 04352 into your GPS and it will get you most of the way there. When you come down the driveway take a left at the fork in the road and continue down to our parking lot. See our Contact page for all address information.
- If you are flying, there are two primary options. One is to fly into Boston Logan Airport and then take the Greyhound or Concord Coach bus to Augusta. There is also a small airport in Augusta you can fly into.
- If you are taking a bus, take it to Augusta and we will arrange a pickup or taxi to bring you to Bearnstow.
- Email us if you need help figuring out your travel plans or need to arrange airport or bus station pickup.
- What is provided at Bearnstow?
- While at Bearnstow you will be provided 3 meals a day prepared by our cook as well as our Young Artist Interns, and before coming you will submit your dietary restrictions. We will provide you a single bed with bedding, blankets, pillows, and towels. Note that we do not have laundry facilities on the premises. Alcohol is permitted at Bearnstow which you may bring for yourself or to share, or you can choose to make a financial contribution to Bearnstow if you would like to drink the alcohol we provide. Read more on our accommodations page.

General
- What is the schedule like for workshops?
- Breakfast is served from 8-8:30 am every morning and while workshop times vary, the first workshop session usually falls between 9 am-12 pm. Lunch is served at 12:30, and the second session is usually about 2-5 pm. Each workshop leader will have a slight variation on this format. Dinner is served every night family style at 7-7:30 pm.
- What is the difference between the workshops, the retreat program, and the Young Artist Intern program?
- Our workshop offerings are one week long stays led by a master teacher that you can register for. The instructor will guide you and the other workshop participants and give you tools for creation. The retreat program is an application only opportunity and provides you with room, board, and space to do a self directed week of creation. The Young Artist Internship program is a summer long experience where artists spend ~10 weeks at Bearnstow creating work together, taking every workshop, presenting their own work, and assisting with the cooking, cleaning, and maintenance of camp.