Residencies

The Mesa Refuge has supported more than 1,000 writers and activists focused on “ideas at the edge” of nature, social justice and economic equity. Our alums include established thought leaders like Michael Pollan, Terry Tempest Williams, Van Jones, Robin Wall Kimmerer, Anna Lappé, Krista Tippett, Raj Patel and Rebecca Solnit—along with many emerging writers of books, film, radio and other media.

A Mesa Refuge residency is an opportunity to develop ideas and present them to the public. We give priority to writers and activists focused on our three main subject areas—nature, social justice and economic equity. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and disciplines. The Mesa Refuge offers the true gifts of time, space and support, no daily fees are charged for residents. Find out more about the Mesa Refuge experience.

To apply to be a resident at the Mesa Refuge, fill out the online application form. There is a non-refundable $50 fee to have your application reviewed by our selection committee. If the application fee is a barrier to apply, please request a fee waiver by emailing us directly here.

Some things to know:

  • Unlike many other residencies, there is no daily fee for a Mesa Refuge residency.
  • Travel and transportation to Point Reyes is the resident’s responsibility as well as food.
  • There is no smoking on the Mesa Refuge property.
  • Mesa Refuge is not set up to accommodate overnight visitors by guests.

2024 Residency Dates

  • Session 1: March 1-March 14
  • Session 2: March 15-28
  • Session 3: March 29-April 11
  • Session 4: April 12-April 25
  • Session 5: April 26-May 9
  • Session 6: Sept 13-26
  • Session 7: Oct 18-Oct 31
  • Session 8: Nov 1-Nov 14
  • Session 9: Nov 14-Nov 27