J Wagner Songwriting Camp: Trailing the Muse
August 20, 2025 @ 3:00PM — August 24, 2025 @ 11:00AM Central Time (US & Canada) Add to Calendar
The Writers' Colony at Dairy Hollow: 515 Spring St. Eureka Springs, AR 72632 Get Directions
J Wagner Songwriting Camp: Trailing the Muse
A three-day immersive workshop exploring the magic of songwriting through symbolism, poetic language, object writing, and co-writing—led by acclaimed Austin-based songwriter J Wagner in the inspiring setting of The Writers' Colony at Dairy Hollow.
J Wagner Songwriting Camp: Trailing the Muse
Unlocking the Magical Language of Songwriting
In this immersive workshop, you'll explore the mystery and magic of songwriting through sessions on symbolism, object writing, cut-up theory, poetic language, slang, and co-writing. Whether you're just beginning your songwriting journey or looking to deepen your craft, this retreat offers creative fuel and inspiration in abundance.
Workshop Fee: $350
Lodging at The Writers’ Colony
There are seven suites available on-site at WCDH, each offering a private writing space and full access to the tranquil grounds.
- $95/night + 3% credit card fee
- One-time $30 cleaning fee
- All meals included (chef-prepared dinners, plus breakfast and lunch)
To reserve your suite, call the WCDH office at 479-253-7444
Off-Site Lodging & Meals
For those staying off-campus, meals are available for $25 per day (includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner), payable at the WCDH office.
Additional nearby lodging options:
- The Piedmont House – 16-minute flat walkDiscounted rooms around $95/night with code WRITERSCOLONY
- Sparky’s Guesthouse – 17-minute walk (downhill to WCDH)Group lodging with five rooms at $80/night.All rooms must be booked to secure this rate.Text 479-244-0123 to reserve.
- Private Airbnb-style LodgingA generous supporter of WCDH is offering cozy rooms (most within walking distance) at $95/night.Text Chou Chou at 479-981-1245 to book.
- Matterhorn Towers Motel – 35-minute walk or quick driveRooms available for $79.99/night.Mention Writers’ Colony to receive the discounted rate. Call 479-253-9602.
About J Wagner
Raised in the New Mexico desert and a former park ranger at Joshua Tree National Park, J Wagner brings the landscapes of the Southwest into his songwriting. Based in Austin, TX, he’s been dubbed “A number one best bet” by the Austin American-Statesman and “a Texas folk music staple” by The Dallas Morning News.
Wagner’s song “If I Go, I’m Goin’” (co-written with Gregory Alan Isakov and Ron Scott) has been featured in Californication, Teen Wolf, and The Haunting of Hill House, and his collaborative track “Suitcase Full of Sparks” appeared on NBC’s The Blacklist.
The Austin Chronicle gave his album The Runaway Kid a perfect four stars and called him “a commander of words and ideation.”