Songtown Songwriters Retreat
August 1-5, 2025
Retreat Details
Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind songwriting retreat set against the breathtaking backdrop of British Columbia’s Fraser Canyon. Hosted by Songtown mentors, Marty Dodson and Clay Mills, this retreat at REO Rafting & Yoga Resort is designed to help you elevate your craft through daily master classes, individual and group writing sessions, and live performance opportunities. Whether you’re an experienced songwriter or just starting out, this retreat offers expert guidance, creative collaboration, and the chance to connect with like-minded artists in an intimate and inspiring setting.Surrounded by pristine wilderness—the tranquility of nature encourages lyrics and melodies to emerge organically. Step away from distractions, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and let the beauty of your surroundings inspire your next great song. With cozy accommodations, delicious meals, and a supportive community of fellow songwriters, this retreat is an unforgettable opportunity to grow both personally and musically.
All-Inclusive 5-Day Retreat
 | Glamping 4 nights in a river's edge glamping tent |
 | Daily Master Classes Master classes will take your songwriting to the next level |
 | Social Hour Enjoy beverages and snacks on Thurs/Sun evening |
 | Dining Delicious chef-inspired meals, beverages & desserts |
 | Yoga Optional yoga sessions at our river's edge shala |
 | Guided Hike Optional guided hike during your stay |
 | Nightly Campfires & Performances Unwind with nightly campfires & performances |
Songwriting Mentors
Marty Dodson
Born in Apple Valley, California, Marty Dodson and his family settled in Nashville, Tennessee when he was 5 years old. Marty was passionate about music but he felt intimidated by the large number of people struggling to succeed in the industry. After spending 10 years in a different career, Marty realized that he couldn't ignore his dream any longer and decided to pursue a future as a professional songwriter.He has had songs recorded by artists such as Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, George Strait, The Oak Ridge Boys, The Plain White T's, Saving Jane, Lonestar, Billing Currington, and Craig Morgan. His first #1 song, “Must Be Doin' Somethin' Right", spent two weeks at the top of the country charts and was the first #1 for Billy Currington as well. Marty produced two songs on “Saving Jane” and continues to write and produce new acts. His song “Bounce”, recorded by Cho Yong Pil, won “Song of the Year” at the Mnet Asian Music Awards in 2013 and the same award at the 2013 MAMA Awards in South Korea.
"It has been a long, hard journey with considerable costs. But, in the end, it has been worth it. I wake up every day and get to do something I love. You can’t put a price on that."
Clay Mills
Mississippi Delta native Clay Mills’ list of accolades is quite impressive. 16-time ASCAP awards winning songwriter/producer, penning #1 hits for Darius Rucker (“Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It”), Diamond Rio (“Beautiful Mess”), and Kimberley Locke (“Fall”). Along the way collecting Grammy Nominations for “Beautiful Mess” and Trisha Yearwood’s “Heaven Heartache and the Power of Love”.
Clay has had over 200 songs recorded worldwide by artists such as Lady Antebellum, Trisha Yearwood, Clay Walker, Reba McEntire, Easton Corbin, Andy Griggs, and many other. Clay’s most recent hits include Darius Rucker’s “History In The Making” and “I Got Nothing.” In 2022 he was inducted into The Mississippi Songwriters Hall Of Fame. Clay is also the co-author of Mastering Melody Writing, a best-selling book for songwriters.When Clay is not writing, he mentors thousands of writers worldwide at SongTown.com, a community he co-founded with hit songwriter Marty Dodson.
| Absolutely Incredible and Inspiring Experience! “I can't say enough about how amazing the songwriting retreat was at REO. So much talent and creativity. Fantastic people creating together everyday in the most gorgeous setting you could imagine!” |
| Gsilverakag |
Retreat Itinerary
Click here to view the retreat itinerary.
Rates
Sale ends March 15, 2025. All prices are per person. Groups = How many people in one river's edge glamping tent.
Groups of 2
| Reg | Sale |
| $1999 | $1699 |
Groups of 3
| Reg | Sale |
| $1799 | $1419 |
Groups of 4+
| Reg | Sale |
| $1699 | $1369 |
Single Occupancy (private tent)
| Reg | Sale |
| $2299 | $2099 |
Shared Tent (private bed)
| Reg | Sale |
| $1799 | $1419 |
Camping (bring your own gear)
| Reg | Sale |
| $1549 | $1269 |
*Up to 4 like-minded guests will be assigned to a shared tent.
Optional 6-Day Retreat: Arrive a day early to settle in and enjoy the resort! See prices below.
Fine Print
- We are open May 2 - September 14, 2025.
- The above rates are per person based on the group size staying in one glamping tent. 10% taxes & fees added at checkout.
- The deposit required to confirm your booking is 20% with the balance due 30 days prior to arrival.
- If you cancel 30+ days in advance, any payments will convert to a credit voucher valid until August 1, 2027.
Add-on Activity List
Whitewater Rafting
Experience the adventure of a lifetime by going whitewater rafting on the best river's in BC. $120
Scenic Float Trip
Relax and unwind as you float down the river with amazing scenery in view. $120
Massage
Take relaxation to a new level with an hour long full-body massage.$120
Mehatl Hike
Hike to the amazing Mehatl Waterfalls. Temporarily unavailable due to floods.Lake Kayaking
Kayak on the beautiful lakes that feed the Nahatlatch river. Min. 3 people $110
Paddleboarding
Paddleboard on scenic lakes and test your balance! Min. 3 people$110
Archery
Trek into the wilderness and test your aim at archery. Min 2 people$20
Cliff Jump
For some more excitement, jump into the Nahatlatch river! Min. 2 people$20
*We recommend booking your activities in advance to guarantee availability and to receive your itinerary upon arrival.
Book Now
This 5-day retreat begins on August 1, 2025. However, you can choose to arrive a day early on July 31, 2025 to settle in and enjoy our beautiful river's edge resort. Simply choose your preferred arrival day below.
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Retreat Information
Airport Shuttle
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Abbotsford Airport (YXX) are the best gateways for flights. Shuttles to REO may be available, contact us for more information.Car Share Rides / Rentals
We can help arrange car share rides with other songwriters. We suggest car rentals from Vancouver (YVR, 3 hours to REO) and Abbotsford (YXX, 2 hours to REO).Retreat Start Time
Check in begins at 4 pm. Retreat introductions begin at 6 pm. All meals are included in your retreat package from dinner on your arrival day to breakfast on your departure day.End time & Departure
We will meet at 10 am to share final thoughts, take photos, and follow up on our song presentations. Check out time is 11 am. Shuttles may be available, contact us for more information.
Retreat Extensions
Extending your vacation is a popular add-on amongst retreat attendees. This allows you to enjoy our beautiful wilderness resort. Great for long-haul travellers to unwind before or after. Please contact us for details on our retreat packages and extension options.
Retreat Organizer
REO Owner and avid songwriter, Bryan Fogelman, has organized and hosted songwriting retreats at REO for the past 25 years. He has learned from many of the best songwriting mentors in the world. Feel free to contact Bryan with any questions.
REO Songwriter Retreat Instructor Alumni
Marty Dodson (2015-17; 2019)
Co-Founder, SongTown
Co-Founder, SongTown
Clay Mills (2015-16; 2019*)Co-Founder, SongTown
Jason Blume (2013-14, 2020)The Business of Songwriting
Mary Gauthier (2014)
Bonnie Hayes (2012, 2018)
Chair, Berklee College of Music
Chair, Berklee College of Music
Deborah Holland (2018)Director, Langara College
Jason Duke (2017)
Karen Taylor-Good (2013)
Pat Pattison (1998-2012)
Don Osborn (2011-12)
Steve Leslie (2012)
Clare McLeod (2012)
