The Bear River Writers’ Conference has attracted writers to Northern Michigan for over two decades. Located on the shores of Walloon Lake, the conference offers generative workshops, readings, craft talks, and good-spirited conversation. Many of our participants have gone on to publish work that they started during the conference; friendships that began in the workshop or around the bonfire have developed and deepened. We’re a community of writers who challenge and support each other, who believe in hard work, camaraderie, and serious play. We hope you’ll consider joining us!
– Cody Walker, Director, Bear River Writers’ Conference
This year’s conference will take place from August 29–September 2. Please visit the Conference Information Page to see our faculty and their workshops, a conference schedule, and current fees for workshops and lodging.
Registration will open this year on April 1 at 9:00 AM EST. The form may be found on the Registration page. Please note, spots are limited and will be determined via lottery at the end of the registration period.
With the support of the University of Michigan Department of English and our generous anonymous donors, we are proud to offer scholarships for this conference. To apply for 2024, please visit the Scholarships page.
Each year we publish the Bear River Review, which includes work by conference participants and faculty.
Please contact us at bearriver-questions@umich.edu with any questions.
