Uncle Mud

October 7-14, 2026

This is an excellent workshop to take if you are considering building your own home, cottage, or shed, or just want time playing in the mud in the wilderness with like-minded souls.

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Hidden within the forest are a magical 2-story redwood treehouse and cob sauna built by the renowned natural builder SunRay Kelley, a straw bale cabin, and other cob camping and glamping spaces

Retreat Mission

Participants will learn put down the credit card to shop in "God's Hardware Store" for round framing timbers shaped by Nature rather than the plain square sticks from the big box store.

Together we will pick one-of-a-kind stones for our foundation rather than the same old concrete blocks.

Finally, we will relearn what we all used to know about art as we sculpt walls and benches from sandy clay using our hands

Retreat Purpose

This is a relatively short workshop but it will cover the different natural building skills necessary to create and maintain snug, beautiful buildings of your own from local natural materials. Hands-on experience will include a wide spectrum sampling from:

• Rubble-Trench/Stone foundations

• Simple round wood framing

• Load bearing and sculptural "cob" style earthen building

Retreat Cost & Accommodations

• $400 per person for the week.

• $350 per person for groups of 2 or more.

• Daily Rate: $120 per person.

• Half-price work-trade is available. Please email for an application.

Workshop rates include camping facilities (tent space, composting toilets, and hot showers) at the site.

Deluxe cabin and glamping accommodations are available nearby for an additional fee. Limited RV space is available (again, please email for the latest details).

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FOOD IS POTLUCK STYLE due to local regulations. Cooking and refrigeration facilities are available and we tend to potluck together to create fun, adventurous meals and snacks loaded with generous offerings from local farm and forest,  -but we are about 45 minutes from the nearest groceries so PLEASE bring what you need to be full and happy. The spring water here is great so bring your water bottle.

Bonus Activities

All workshop participants are warmly encouraged to take time to open themselves to the full magic of Golden Cup Wilderness including hiking, meditating, forest bathing and just hanging out.​

Location & Environment

Nestled within a thriving ecosystem in Northern California, the retreat takes place on a remote, health-focused homestead designed for deep rejuvenation. This environment invites you to shed cultural pressures and rediscover your truest self in the embrace of nature.

View Cabins HERE!

NOTE: Please indicate your preferences or limitations for a cabin, and we will do our best to accommodate everyone when we assign the cabins. Some require hiking, some crossing the forest, some climbing steps...etc

View the Cancellation, Terms & Conditions HERE!