Staples InTents and Black People Off-Road are excited to host The Gathering, a weekend of camping and workshops, scheduled for October 22-24 in Crawfordville, GA. Through an experience like none other, we will create a safe and welcoming environment where all campers feel comfortable, and leave with an increased confidence and curiosity about camping and outdoor adventure. This event is geared toward both the novice and avid camper, and will offer educational and fun activities throughout the weekend including, outdoor ethics, camping in comfort, bonfires and escape “rooms”.
The Gathering will be held on 50+ acres of beautiful, Black-owned property at BoMax Ranch and Retreat. Throughout the weekend, we will also be supporting and highlighting other small, Black-owned businesses and experts.
Registration is limited so be sure to register early.
Event Details
Accomodation Options
Are you looking to experience the outdoors, but still prefer to sleep within 4 walls?
Slightly nestled in the trees, the Brown Bungalow, may be just what you’re looking for. Complete with private bathroom, queen size bed, microwave, and mini-fridge. For entertainment, the bungalow is equipped with a TV, a private deck and fire pit.
Do you love nature, but need the modern comforts of home?
Take advantage of the onsite camper to create your home away from home. This one bed/one bath camper with full kitchen and bathroom is perfect for your weekend getaway. The camper is stocked with all the necessities and has full electric and water hookups. And with a pullout sofa, the camper is perfect for a family.
Click here to reserve your camper.
Are you the person that doesn’t mind the outdoors, but just the thought of sleeping on the floor makes your back hurt? The canvas bell tent is just what you’re looking for.
Enjoy your weekend at The Gathering in a queen size bed, and have access to your own portable bathroom, just outside your tent. In the evenings, relax in your private sitting area and enjoy your own fire pit.
Do you have your own camper or RV and just need a place to park it?
No problem…bring your own camper and we’ll provide the space. With full hook-ups for water, electricity and plumbing, you will be ready to gather in comfort.
Do you have everything you need for a perfect camping experience and just need the space to pitch camp?
The bring your own camp option is right for you. You’ll have space for your vehicle (car/van/SUV) and camp setup (tent, rooftop tent, small trailer: off-road, teardrop, pop-up). (Full-size trailers or RVs must reserve a BYO-RV site.)
Have a crew you’d like to gather with?
Reserve a Very InTents Camper section so you won’t have to coordinate arrival times to The Gathering.
A camp crew can accommodate up to 5 vehicles, 5 tents and 10 people.
Want to tent camp but don’t have your own setup?
Don’t worry. We’ve got your covered with options to rent camp gear. Setup includes tent, cot (s), sleeping bag (s), rug, light and a table.
Max – 2 person occupancy
NOTE: Each accomodation option includes 1 primary adult camper. Addition campers, in the same tent/vechicle must also register for the event, at an extra charge.
What’s included?
- Enjoy 50+ private acres of property
- Safe and secure environment
- Swag bag valued at $150+ from our sponsors
- Friday movie night
- Saturday night bonfire
- Nightly happy hours w/ beer
- Enjoy 20+ activities including demos, films and workshops
- Contest and raffles
- Toilet facilities
- Handwashing stations
- Potable water onsite
- Vendors & exhibits
Schedule
Friday
1 – 5 pm – Registration
6 pm – Dinner (additional cost)
7:30 – Welcome, raffle & happy hour
Until 10 pm – Games & DJ
Saturday
7 to 9 am – Breakfast on your own
9 am to 12 pm – Various workshops
12 to 2 pm Lunch on your own
2 to 5:30 pm – Various workshops
6 pm – Dinner (additional cost)
7:30 pm – Happy hour, raffle & bonfire
Sunday
7 am to 11 am – Breakfast & pack up (on your own)
11 am – Raffle & Goodbyes
12 pm – Checkout
F.A.Q.
What happens in the event of bad weather?
In the case of bad weather (rain, snow, sleet…) the show will go on. The beauty of camping is you can have fun and be successful in all conditions. Octobers in Georgia can be all over the place, so keep an eye on the weather leading up to the event and come prepared.
What types of wildlife should I expect at The Gathering?
Since we will be camping outside, we can’t promise that no wild animals will wander into camp. There are known deer, racoons, snakes, possums, and of course bugs.
With large groups, animals tend to stay away, but the best way to prevent the unwanted animals is to keep the campsite clean. Be sure to take all trash to the large trash cans, located throughout The Gathering each evening and avoid spilling/pouring food/drink on the ground to prevent bugs.
Can I build a campfire?
Individual campfires are allowed, but only if you bring your own self-containing firepit, that does not damage the ground. Remember to extinguish fires at night and never leave a campfire unattended.
Firewood will not be available onsite, but you are free to collect fallen timber from the forest floor and/or bring your own firewood.
Are kids welcome at The Gathering?
Although there are no planned kids activities at The Gathering, they are welcome, under parent supervision. Registration for kids 13 and under is $25, and includes a special kids swag bag.
Are dogs allowed at The Gathering?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on property at The Gathering, with the exception of service dogs. All service dogs must remain on a leash (no longer than six feet) and be accompanied by the owner at all times. Owners should clean up after pets.
What is the bathroom situation?
For your convenience, port-a-potties will be onsite during The Gathering. If you’re not a fan of port-a-potties, please plan to bring your own bathroom option. For tips on using the bathroom while camping, check out this video.
Please note, digging of “catholes” will not be permitted during The Gathering.
Will there be cell service/wifi at The Gathering?
Wifi will not be available at The Gathering and cellular service is hit or miss, depending on your carrier. We encourage everyone to take this time to disconnect and get to know your fellow campers.
Will water be available at The Gathering?
Although a potable water source will be avaible at The Gathering, we do recommend that you bring a full water container.
Will there be a place to dump trash?
Large trash cans will be distributed throughout the campground. Please bag all trash and place in large trash cans.
Will electricity be available at The Gathering?
Although electricity is available on the property, only the bungalow and RVs will have direct access to electricity.
Please plan to bring back up batteries for all electronic needs.
Will food be available at The Gathering?
An option to purchase a dinner package is available for Friday (fish) and Saturday (chicken) nights. Each night a vegan option will be available. Unfortunately, due to the size of this event, we cannot accomodate other dietary restrictions.
Breakfast and lunch will be on your own. For menu suggestions, please reference these sample menus.
What should I bring to The Gathering?
We encourage you to bring everything you need to enjoy yourself and be self-suficient.
- tent
- sleep system
- kitchen system
- food for your stay
- toiletries
- appropriate clothing for your stay
- any medication you may need
- phone charger
- rain boots (you never know)
- sneakers
- If you are DIY camping, here is a great camping checklist from Staples InTents
What if I forget something?
The General Store at BoMax Ranch and Retreat will be open to purchase incidentals, snacks and souvenirs.
The closest store to The Gathering is a Dollar General (~15 mins away). If you forget something, utilize your fellow campers or go to the information tent to see if we can be of assistance.
How are the campsites setup?
All campsites are located in an open grassy area where you will be able to park at your individual site.
Will there be quiet hours?
Please be considerate of guests who are attending The Gathering for a quiet, natural experience. In the main camp area, radios, televisions, musical instruments and all other noise-making devices should not to be used between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Nightly bonfires and socials, will be located away from the main camp area, for those who want to enjoy themselves into the night.
Can I reserve a campsite near my friends?
All guests of The Gathering will be assigned a campsite in the order they arrive and spots can not be saved, so there is no way to ensure you can camp with your friends. If you would like to camp next your friends, we recommend arriving together so you can park togerther or reserving one of our VIC (Very InTents Camper) areas. In these areas, space will be reserved for 5 vehicles, 5 tents and up to 10 people.
What should I expect as a first time camper?
Expect to enjoy yourself and have a ball! The best part about The Gathering is you will be in a large group and among friends.
If you need assistance with what to pack, use our camping checklist to get started.
Do I have to be present to win a raffle item?
Yes, you must be in attendance at the event in order to win a raffle item. If your name is announced as the winner of a raffle, you will have until the next raffle to claim your prize. Any winners not present during Sunday’s raffle, will forfit their prize.
What is the COVID protocol?
While COVID is still a huge concern and our aim is to create a safe and enjoyable event.
On 50+ acres, there is ample room to maintain social distancing. All guest attending The Gathering must show proof of vaccination or receive a negative COVID test prior to arrival. When social distancing isn’t possible, we do request that mask be worn.
Sanitation and hand washing stations will be available throughout the campground for your use.
In addition, all persons handling food, purchased throught The Gathering, will wear mask and gloves.
What is the cancellation policy?
Refund and Cancellation Policy:
- All tickets are non-refundable
- There are NO refunds if you cannot attend.
- Tickets will not be refunded due to inclement weather. Events take place rain or shine.
- Event cancellation:
- If the event is cancelled, attendees will be offered a refund or the option to transfer registration to the next event.
What if I can't attend? Can I transfer my registration?
Although The Gathering does not have a refund policy, you can transfer your registration to another camper. In the event that you cannot attend The Gathering, please email info@staplesintents.com to transfer your registraion to another participant.
Event Sponsors
