Creepaway Camp: A New Immersive Experience for Horror Fans Debuts in Colorado

Colorado Springs, CO  — February 1, 2026

Horror is having a moment. Thanks to a barrage of horror blockbusters (see Ryan Coogler's Sinners, A24's Bring Her Back, Zack Cregger's Weapons and Ben Leonberg's Good Boy from this past year, just to name a few) recent trends in horror storytelling like genre blending, the resurgence of Stephen King adaptations, and the growing popularity of horror podcasts and genre-dedicated streaming services, we're witnessing the dawning of a horror renaissance. Creepaway Camp, inspired by the terrifying nostalgia of summer slasher films, offers adult fans of horror literature and film an immersive and unique experience.

Creepaway Camp 2026 is produced by Broom Book & Candle—a woman-owned Colorado company dedicated to carving out a place for spotlighting horror—and is sponsored by Tor Nightfire*, a powerhouse publisher in the horror and speculative fiction genre. Programming support is also provided by community partners(AKA accomplices) at the Horror Writers Association, a worldwide professional organization that supports horror writers at every stage in their careers and sponsors the annual Bram Stoker Award.

Creepaway Camp will combine the charm of summer camp with elements of horror that captivate participants. From themed cabins to eerie trails, the camp is designed to evoke memories of childhood summers while adding a chilling twist that appeals to darker adult sensibilities. The venue, nestled in the heart of Black Forest, surrounded by over 350 acres of majestic ponderosa pines, is La Foret—a retreat center modeled after a traditional summer camp, boasts cabin accommodations, ropes courses, archery, swimming, gorgeous hiking trails and more.

Participants can expect a variety of activities tailored to enhance their horror experience, including film screenings of classic and contemporary horror movies, storytelling sessions around the campfire with Talking Scared** podcast host, Neil McRobert, and interactive workshops that dive into the dark art (and heart) of horror writing. Each activity is crafted to engage attendees, allowing them to explore their passion for horror in different formats.

 

"As a kid in the UK, I grew up longing for the American summer camp experience. Then I saw horror movies and craved it even more. I'm beyond excited to finally get to live the dream with the people who write my favourite nightmares."

Neil McRobert, author and host of Talking Scared

 

Creepaway Camp also features immersive cabin v. cabin games, a Creep-tastic Book Fair (perfect for day campers), spooky craft-making opportunities and traditional summer camp activities like archery, canoeing and hiking—all with a horror bent. Completing activities earns campers their 'demerit badges' which they can take home with horror fan bragging rights. The camp will also offer themed meals inspired by horror films, ensuring that even the dining experience aligns with the overall atmosphere. Attendees can enjoy dishes that add to the camp's eerie charm while mingling with fellow horror enthusiasts—not to mention the obligatory s'mores.

Celebrity Author Guests

In addition to themed activities, the camp will also host a top-tier roster of special guest authors including some big industry names. Among them are C.J. Leede(author of Maeve Fly and American Rapture), Johnny Compton (author of The Spite House and Devils Kill Devils), Nat Cassidy(author of 2025's hit, When The Wolf Comes Home), Rachel Harrison (author of cozy horror blockbusters like Such Sharp Teeth and Play Nice), Erika T. Wurth (the Colorado-based author of White Horse and The Haunting of Room 904) and more. These horror powerhouses plus, a talent-packed cohort of emerging authors, will serve as honorary Creepaway Camp counselors. This will be a rare opportunity for fans to connect with and learn from some of their faves.

 

"Creepaway Camp 2026 is going to make remarkable memories. Given there'll be a full moon, I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it's a setup for a weekend werewolf hunt!"

Johnny Compton, author of The Spite House and Devils Kill Devils

 

Colorado's home-grown horror will also take the spotlight - a cadre of emerging indie and self-published Colorado authors will represent the home team, introducing guests to new voices in the genre.

Creepaway Camp is not just about a spine-tingling good time. It's also dedicated to fostering a sense of community among horror fans. Participants will have the chance to meet like-minded individuals, share their favorite horror stories, and create lasting memories. The camp aims to build connections that extend beyond the event, uniting fans who share a common passion.

This unique experience provides an opportunity to escape the ordinary and embrace the thrill of horror in a supportive and engaging environment. Creepaway Camp caters to adults looking for a fun and memorable way to celebrate their love for the genre, making it a must-do event for summer 2026.

Camper registration is now open for Creepaway Camp 2026.

The event is slated for June 29 - July 3, 2026.

 

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Amanda Shafer

Founder at Broom Book & Candle

amanda@broombookcandle.com

*Nightfire - A well-known imprint of Tor Publishing Group specializing in horror and speculative fiction.

**Talking Scared - a widely popular UK-based podcast that features celebrity horror authors and is hosted by Neil McRobert.