Last September, something special unfolded in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Sixty-two women ranging in age from mid-20s to mid-70s gathered at Camp Pemigewassett—not as parents, not as staff, not as plus-ones but for themselves. Now, we’re thrilled to say: registration for Women’s Weekend 2025 is open—and we’d love for you to join us.

Where It All Began

In late 2022, we sent a survey to the greater Pemi community, asking what would an ideal women’s weekend look like for you? Nearly 100 women responded, describing a balance of rest and activity, a chance to get away from everyday stresses and responsibilities, and an opportunity to learn or think about something new. A keynote speaker? Absolutely.

With that input, we crafted our first Women’s Weekend—and it checked all the boxes!

The 2024 Weekend

From September 13–15, 2024, women from all over the U.S. (and London!) settled into their chosen Pemi accommodations. Many had ties to camp as mothers of campers, partners of alumni, or former staff members. Nearly two dozen were completely new to Pemi. Many came solo and others came with friends or family members. By Sunday brunch, we were one close-knit group as we cheered for those who’d hiked a local mountain or braved daily Polar Bear dips in Lower Baker Pond or performed at campfire or for those who’d simply embraced living in a rustic setting when they weren’t quite sure it was their style.

Our choose-your-own-activity schedule gave everyone freedom. Some woke early for birdwatching with Deb Kure, the head of Pemi’s nationally-renowned Nature Program. Others chose hiking, journaling, or art—all led by professionals and passionistas—others chose simply to sit on the beach with coffee and a book. Wellness sessions in Qigong, Reiki, and weight training complemented traditional camp fun.

One standout component? Our keynote speaker, Morra Aarons-Mele, whose insight, relatability, and good humor sparked conversations that continued by the campfire and long after the weekend ended.

Perhaps in saying that the inaugural Women’s Weekend “checked all the boxes” this sums it up: amidst the glowing comments post-weekend, one attendee wrote, “So…was this a health and wellness retreat? Or was it a workshop to learn skills? Or a rustic camp experience for women?” Our response? “Yes!”

Essentially, our goal for Women’s Weekend is for it to be what you need and want from your time at Pemi. (IS there a label for that?)

What’s New in 2025

Registration is open! We’re building on the success of 2024 with a mix of familiar and new activities and the same laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. Women’s Weekend is scheduled for September 11/12–14, with a few exciting additions:

• Early Arrival Option: Flexible schedule? Come Thursday, September 11, for bonus Pemi time before the full group officially convenes Friday afternoon.
• Private Wellness Sessions: A chance to book one-on-one sessions in massage, Reiki, or Qigong.
• Keynote Speaker 2025: Betsy Wills is an expert in the study of aptitudes (how we’re wired to think, create, and solve problems) and co-authored Your Hidden Genius: The Science-Backed Strategy for Unlocking and Harnessing Your Unique Talents (2025). Whether you’re launching a career, navigating a mid-life shift, seeking a new and fulfilling hobby to complement your work life, or designing your ideal retirement, this will resonate! AND…everyone who registers will have free access to an online aptitude assessment beforehand if she chooses.

Of course, all the essentials return: delicious meals, homegrown entertainment at campfire, creative outlets, time in nature, and the freedom to do everything—or nothing at all.

September at Pemi: Pure Magic

Crisp mornings, golden afternoons, and starlit nights—September is one of the most beautiful times at Pemi! Whether you’re a veteran of camp or brand new, you’ll savor being in Pemi’s stunning setting.

Registration is open now, and spots are filling. Consider Women’s Weekend at Pemi as the perfect getaway with an old college friend or two, a sister, or a neighbor—or treat yourself to coming solo and crafting your ideal weekend, knowing you’ll leave with new friends.

Your bottom bunk (or conventional bed!) awaits. Hope to see you there!

Dottie Reed
[email protected]