Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mesa Refuge?
Mesa Refuge is a residency for writers and activists located in Point Reyes Station, CA, an hour north of San Francisco. We welcome both experienced and emerging writers and activists who are addressing pressing issues of our time including (but not limited to): nature, environment and climate crisis; economic, racial and gender equity; social justice and restorative justice; immigration; health care access; housing; and more.
On whose land is the Mesa Refuge situated?
Mesa Refuge is on Coast Miwok land overlooking Tomales Bay.
When is the application deadline and residency periods?
Our annual application deadline is November 1, for spring and fall residencies in the following year.
Can Mesa Refuge alums reapply?
We strongly encourage alums to sign up for Alum Weeks, one-week residencies with a sliding scale fee. If you’d like to apply for a two-week spring or fall residency, please wait at least 10 years from your last Mesa Refuge residency. We have limited space for spring and fall residencies and want to continue to support new writers and activists.
Can I apply with creative collaborators?
Due to the limited size of our residency (serving three residents at a time), we are not currently able to accommodate collaborator teams. A better option for collaborators is our DIY Retreats.
Do you accept applications from international writers and activists?
International applicants are welcome to apply though most of the writers and activists we’ve accepted live in the United States. One of the main barriers for international applicants is the high cost of travel to Mesa Refuge.
If I am accepted and unable to attend the residency during the dates offered, may I defer?
Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate deferrals. If you’re accepted and cannot make it, you would need to reapply the following year.
Do I need a car during the residency?
We recommend having access to a car during your stay (i.e., residents may decide to share the cost of a rental car). It is not necessary to have a car but it is convenient. With a car, it is easier to go into town for groceries or visit the nearby beaches and hiking trails at Point Reyes National Seashore. The town of Point Reyes Station is within walking distance (about a 10-15 minute walk). Mesa Refuge also has two functioning (but rusty) bikes and helmets you can use to ride into town.
Are guests permitted during my stay?
Friends or family are welcome to drop you off and pick you up but your time at the Mesa Refuge is precious. We do not accommodate guests for meals or overnight.
Is the facility accessible?
Mesa Refuge has some accessibility features. The house has three bedrooms, one is upstairs and two are downstairs. One bedroom/bath downstairs is mobility-ready and has accessible features including an accessible sink, toilet and walk-in shower with mobility bars.
How reliable is wifi on the premises?
Wifi is fast, reliable and available throughout the property. However, cell reception can be spotty at Mesa Refuge and around West Marin.
What can I expect from the nearest town?
Point Reyes Station is just down the road, a 10-15 minute walk from Mesa Refuge. It is a small, progressive town in West Marin consisting of a main street with a well-stocked grocery store, excellent bookstore, hardware store, pharmacy and several other shops and eateries. The population is predominantly white and Latinx.