JOY SCOUT CAMP
women’s widow retreat
June 3-7, 2026
I know what it’s like to feel like your world has stopped while everyone else’s keeps moving.
I know what it’s like to feel alone, misunderstood, or like the future you imagined has suddenly disappeared. And I know what it’s like to wonder if joy is something that belongs to other people now.
But I also know how powerful it can be to sit around a table with people who understand. To laugh again without explaining yourself. To feel the quiet relief of being with others who truly get it.
This retreat is for female-identifying widows who are ready to begin reconnecting with life again — not by leaving grief behind, but by learning how to carry it while still making space for joy.
Over five days in early June, a small group of us will gather in my hometown of Traverse City. We’ll explore the beauty of the Leelanau Peninsula, a place whose name means “Land of Delight.” It’s the place I moved to after my husband died to rediscover what life after loss could be. In my early grief, it was these beaches, trails, sunsets, and quiet moments that slowly reminded me that life could still hold beauty. It will be such a joy to share my favorite places with a group of women.
During our time together, we’ll share meals, explore Lake Michigan, spend time in nature, move our bodies, and create space for honest conversations, reflection, and moments of unexpected lightness.
Come spend a few days in the Land of Delight, embrace the whimsy of the world, and be reminded that joy still exists.
What’s included
A 5 Day/4 Night Stay at an airbnb on a working farm & vineyard
Accommodations are split between a main house and the guest house next door (choice of solo or shared room).
All drinks & meals provided, suitable to dietary preferences
One-of-a-kind intimate experience
Transportation to and from the Traverse City airport (within a certain window)
All activities (listed below)
* Please note that the house is not ADA accessible and there are stairs to the entry to the house. If you have accessibility concerns, please reach out *
Activities
CONNECTION & COMMUNITY
Spend five days surrounded by women who understand this version of life. From shared meals around the table to quiet conversations on the beach and laughter around the fire, this retreat is designed to foster real, honest connection—with others and with yourself.
NATURE & EXPLORATION
We’ll explore some of Northern Michigan’s most beautiful places—from hiking the bluffs and climbing the dunes to beach days along Lake Michigan and wandering through small lakeshore towns. These are the places that helped me heal, and I’m honored to share them with you
JOYFUL EXPERIENCES
This isn’t just about reflection — it’s about exploring what joy looks like now. Embrace a little whimsy with floral crown making, aura readings, cold plunges in the lake, shopping local favorites, and maybe even a little dancing on the beach. Expect moments of lightness, play, and unexpected joy woven throughout the week.
REST & REFLECTION
There will be space to slow down, too. Enjoy morning movement, journaling, time to rest at the house, and conversations designed to help you process, reflect, and look ahead. Space to breathe, to feel, and to reconnect with yourself—at your own pace.
The Property
Escape to a truly one-of-a-kind Northern Michigan retreat set on 180 breathtaking acres of rolling vineyards and open countryside. This peaceful property offers complete privacy and space to unwind—far removed from the hustle and bustle of town—while still being close enough to enjoy everything the area has to offer.
Surrounded by rows of vineyards and wide-open skies, the setting is serene, scenic, and unmistakably special. Friendly Scottish Highland cows roam the property, adding a charming, pastoral touch that guests of all ages will love. Whether you’re strolling the grounds, enjoying a quiet morning coffee, or watching the sunset over the vines, this is a place designed for slowing down and reconnecting with nature.
Both the Farmhouse and the Guesthouse next door are thoughtfully remodeled 19th-century homes. Inside, you’ll find a chef’s kitchen designed for memorable meals, a sunroom dining area that opens to vineyard views, and cozy spaces that make gatherings feel special. Outside, wide porches set the scene for golden-hour sunsets, while the firepit is made for stargazing and late-night storytelling. Both houses are updated with top of the line finishes.
Hiking, lake dips, campfires, home-cooked meals, and deep conversations await!
Testimonials
“Joy Scout Camp is the single most impactful thing I have done on my healing journey. The picturesque and calm environment is the perfect setting for the sacred space Dana has created. I felt held by the women and nature in a way that made me feel connected and held and whole again. Sharing our stories and support, the group activities, and the ever-present option to do whatever it is that feels good opened up a part of me that loss had forgotten. I am filled with so much gratitude for Dana for creating Joy Scout Camp and the incredible women that feel like sisters.”
“Joy Scout Camp is a must for any widow her grief journey. Sharing time, space, struggles, laughter, and tears with women who "get it" can really shift your grief and your experience with it to that of hope.”
“Dana immediately made everyone feel at ease and comfortable to share as little, or as much of their journey. We laughed, we cried, we shared our difficulties and our triumphs, our fears and our hope for the future. I left camp with my heart full of love for this group of incredibly strong women that I had only met a few days before and they are still inspiring me.”
“Feeling stuck and lost in grief is so isolating and this retreat helped me to progress in my healing journey. Dana is a great resource, support and being with other widows was an experience I didn’t know I needed. I’m so glad I went. When I got home and family asked how it was I told them “transformative!”
ABOUT DANA
Dana is the Founder of the Forced Joy Project and the Joy Scout Club. She has 8 years of planning and facilitating retreats for young adults with cancer with the non-profit, Cassie Hines Shoe Cancer Foundation, and is the co-founder of Widows in the Wild International retreats.
When Dana lost her husband, Brad, it was moving to Northern Michigan and reconnecting with nature that allowed her to reclaim her joy - she’s excited to share that love with the next cohort of Joy Scout Camp.
Her favorite ways to spend her time are getting lost in a deep conversation around a bonfire, hiking the dunes, and dancing under the stars.
RESERVE YOUR SPOT
Join us for connection, camaraderie, and campfire conversations
premium room
Enjoy a private bedroom with a queen or king bed, offering a quiet, comfortable space to rest and recharge throughout the retreat. Perfect for introverts or those who value solitude and a place to fully unwind at the end of each day. Please note: there are two houses — the main house and the guest house. If you have a preference, please let me know after booking, and I’ll do my best to accommodate.
$2450
Standard room
Stay in a cozy shared room with one other participant, each with your own twin bed. Perfect for those looking for a little extra bonding time with their roomie! Please note: there are two houses — the main house and the guest house. If you have a preference, please let me know after booking, and I’ll do my best to accommodate.
$2200
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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You’re welcome to join! To us, the term widow means the loss of a life partner. Legal documents don’t matter here.
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This trip is for women, or those identifying as women. Stay tuned for future events for all genders!
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As a member of the shy, introvert club, I know what a big step a retreat can be! However a lot of thought has gone into ensuring that Joy Scout Camp facilitates connection in a safe, comfortable way for everyone. The intimacy of this retreat is great for those who may take a little longer to come out of their shell.
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The rooms are split between the two houses, with options for a solo room (premium) or a twin bed in a shared room with one other person (standard).
Shared rooms will be assigned later based on a questionnaire to match with a compatible roomie. If you have a preference on roommates, you can let me know when booking!
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It’s fully encouraged! The Traverse City region is a beautiful location that we will only begin to explore in our time together. If you’re interested, I’m happy to provide some recommendations for the area.