Heart of the Desert With Becca Lawton: A Writing Oasis for Poets and Prose Writers
Treat yourself to a Valentine’s Day creative retreat for poets and writers. Join award-winning author Becca Lawton (The Oasis This Time, Torrey House, 2019, and other books) at the U.C. Irvine Steele-Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center in Borrego Springs.
What to Expect:
- A half-day blending mini-explorations of the Park’s flora and fauna, reading and discussing the inspired works of established desert writers, and putting our own words on paper.
- Writing by hand (for the mind-hand connection, as well as for keeping our ears attuned to silence or sounds beyond keyboards clicking).
- Expect to leave the retreat with the seeds of at least one creative piece you can grow on your own back home.
- Writers interested in paths to publication can ask Becca for individualized suggestions for next steps for your work.
- 1-hour lunch/writing/research break onsite (bring a bagged lunch).
REGISTER TODAY!
Who Should Attend:
- Poets, prose writers, and journal keepers seeking inspiration in a desert setting.
- Beginning to experienced writers looking to deepen their craft through guided exercises and quiet reflection.
- Nature lovers interested in blending outdoor exploration with creative expression.
- Anyone craving a restorative Valentine’s Day retreat centered on creativity and connection.
- Participants curious about desert literature, ecology, or the writing lives of contemporary authors.
- Writers hoping to leave with new draft material—and those interested in personalized guidance toward publication.
Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center (401 Tilting T Dr., Borrego Springs, CA 92004)
Cost:
Student $25/person
ABF Member $50/person
Non-Member $59/person
Cancellation Policy, Scholarships, & FAQ
About the Presenter:
Becca Lawton, award-winning author, scientist, and former Grand Canyon river guide, has been honored with a Fulbright Research Chair, Ellen Meloy Award for Desert Writers, WILLA in Fiction, Nautilus Book Award, Waterston Desert Writing Prize, and residencies at Hedgebrook, PLAYA, and The Island Institute.
Becca has published in The Sun, Orion, Audubon, and many other journals and has authored a dozen books about water and the outdoors. Now she’s at work on Boatwoman: A River Memoir (Bison/U Nebraska, 2027), about the heroine’s journey and healing, as told by her river experiences and those of her sister Canyon guides.
