Recharge your creativity at our two-night Creative Nature Retreat at the Campsite at Shield Ranch. All adults are welcome for this restorative experience that combines the tranquility of nature with the inspiration of creative expression in a supportive community environment.
WHEN: Fri.-Sun., Oct. 24-26, 2025 (2-night stay) from noon to 3 PM
WHERE: Campsite at Shield Ranch, 10417 Crumley Ranch Rd., Austin, TX 78738
Deadline and Rates
The registration period is April 14 to Oct. 7, 2025
Cost: $600 per person (includes all programming, meals and snacks, and two-night shared accommodations for three with an option to request roommate/s).
Early Bird Registration: Enjoy a $100 discount if you register by May 27, 2025. No other discounts, scholarships or promotions may apply. Use promo code: EARLYBIRD25
Registration Deadline: Oct. 7, 2025
Scholarship Cost: $400 per person. Thanks to the generosity of supporters of Shield Ranch Foundation, a limited number of scholarship registrations are available on a first-come, first-serve basis to increase access for individuals who otherwise might face barriers to participation. Use scholarship code: SCHOLARSHIP25
About Our Creative Program
The Creative Nature Retreat is led by creative coach Natalie Davis, singer/songwriter Jillette Johnson, and Shield Ranch program director Justine Kies. Retreat participants may enjoy any of the following experiences, with free time always available.
Watercolor in the wild
Explore and let go of creative outcomes with Natalie Davis who encourages experimentation with watercolor outdoors with room to learn.
Naturalist walk
Walk with master naturalist and art director Danny Martin in the diverse ecosystem to observe, identify and find out how it’s all connected.
Sound meditation
Led by certified music therapist, sound artist and sound meditation instructor Andrea Cortez.
Songwriting
Tap into the art of creating a song, led by singer/songwriter Jillette Johnson. Jillette has led adults and youth in writing their first-ever songs, by collaborative observation and creative association.
Botanical Cyanotypes
The botanic world offers an endless array of inspiring shapes, silhouettes and details. Creating a cyanotype with local herbalist Lauren Peterson of White Deer Apothecary is a chance to slow down your observation and revel in the magic of plants.
Herbal Tinctures & Shrubs
Learn to craft herbal tinctures and shrubs using botanicals that boost our mood and excite our tastebuds. Led by herbalist Lauren Peterson of White Deer Apothecary, sample several local Texas herbs, learn techniques to inspire you to create your own, and go home with recipe cards.
Natural dyes
Natalie Davis will lead an introduction to commonly found and surprising plants to make your own dyed bandana.
Forest bathing (guided sensory nature exploration)
During this mindful exploration of nature trails and quiet outdoor gathering places, Justine Kies, certified Association of Nature and Forest Therapy guide, invites you to tune in to your senses for a unique experience with the natural world.
Meditation and yoga
Start the morning with a yoga flow for all levels along with meditation.
Facilitated and self-guided prompts for exploration, inspiration and reflection
In community and individually offered throughout the retreat by your guides.
Schedule at a Glance
| Friday, Oct. 24 | Saturday, Oct. 25 | Sunday, Oct. 26 |
| Yoga & Meditation | Sunrise Sound Meditation | |
| Breakfast | Breakfast | |
| Naturalist Walk//Field Contour Drawing | Natural Dye | |
| Arrival, Snack Bar & Settle In | Lunch | Lunch |
| Orientation Hike | Songwriting//Cyanotypes | Closing |
| Opening Tea Ceremony & Reflections | Watercolor//Forest Bathing | Departure |
| Dinner | Dinner | |
| Dusk Hike//Herbal Tinctures & Shrubs | Campfire with songs & Improvised Music |
Meals
Our dedicated Campsite Chef Addie makes every effort to source local, sustainable, seasonal ingredients from local farms. Fresh, delicious meals will be prepared daily during your stay. Our kitchen can accommodate most dietary needs and preferences including vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options.
Lodging
Come experience the award-winning, SITES Gold-certified Campsite at Shield Ranch—an off-grid, sustainably built facility just 22 miles from downtown Austin. Designed by Andersson / Wise, who received an AIA Austin Design Award of Excellence for the project, the Campsite offers an immersive connection to the natural world. Screened sleeping shelters feature natural air flow, solar-powered ceiling fans, and moveable wooden panels for added comfort and protection. ADA-accessible shelters are available upon request. Guests can enjoy a lending library in the Pavilion, with showers and restrooms located a short walk from the shelters.
About Shield Ranch: Shield Ranch is a 6,600-acre protected wildland comprising 10% of the Barton Creek watershed. The Ranch is sustainably managed for the benefit of people and nature. It is the first Urban Night Sky Place in Texas designated by DarkSky International and a recipient of the “Quiet Conservation Area Award” from Quiet Parks International.
Please review our recommended packing list to help prepare for your stay. It includes what to pack, what not to pack, and what’s provided.
About Our Facilitators
Natalie Davis
Natalie Davis is an intuitive leadership coach and creative professional with 20+ years in the design industry and 7 years as an executive coach. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Design|Media Arts from UCLA and her Master of Fine Arts in 2-D Design from Cranbrook Academy of Art. As a first-generation Arab-American, handmade goods and traditional artistry have always been a part of her life. Through Canoe, she continues to explore the ornate textiles, furniture, and objects of her youth through the tactile practice of ceramics and leatherworking. She enjoys supporting others through workshops, executive coaching, and speaking engagements.
Jillette Johnson
Jillette Johnson is a critically acclaimed recording artist who first garnered attention playing in New York City, where she released her 2013 debut album, Water in a Whale. Throughout her decade-long career, she has been a road warrior, a piano-pop torchbearer, and a singer/songwriter. Jillette is also a certified yoga teacher and designer/owner of several Airbnbs in Nashville, Tenn. She has a deep passion for holding space for people, helping to foster curiosity, creativity, and connection.
Justine Kies
As Shield Ranch Foundation program director, Justine Kies facilitates groups’ goals and implements nature immersion programs at the Campsite. Since 2016, her boots have been walking along the trails of Shield Ranch Barton Creek with youth and adults connecting them to the beauty and significance of the land. She has led seven Camp El Ranchito seasons, five as camp director. In January 2020, Justine trained with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy as a certified forest bathing guide.
Contact
For more information about the Creative Nature Retreat, contact Justine Kies.
