What is Queer Kidlit Camp?
Queer Kidlit Camp is a woodsy long weekend dedicated to queer kidlit and queer folks in publishing! This event will bring together a select group of approximately 30–50 queer and trans people in and around the book publishing industry for three days of community, connection, and conversation. Think: the best parts of summer camp combined with deep discussions about the highs and lows of working in publishing—with a queer twist!
For our second year, we've added more equitable features, including a dedicated BIPOC attendee scholarship fund. We’re also thrilled to now be under the umbrella of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Interlink Foundation!
When is Queer Kidlit Camp?
Queer Kidlit Camp takes place annually on Memorial Day weekend. This year it starts on Friday afternoon, May 23rd 2025, and ends on Monday morning, May 26th, 2025.
Where is Queer Kidlit Camp?
We’re renting out a 40-acre campus at a queer- and trans-owned outdoor event space in southern Vermont. The property features incredible amenities, including an eight-person hot tub, hiking trails, an outdoor sauna, a party barn with foosball and ping pong, river access with a private beach, a swimmable pond, lawn games (bocce and cornhole), and a fire pit! The camp is located on the ancestral lands of the Elnu Abenaki people, past and present.
Who can apply?
We welcome applications from published authors, illustrators, booksellers, librarians, educators, publishing workers, and other affiliated
kidlit workers. We are not accepting uncontracted authors at this time.
How much does it cost?
We offer different participation options at varying price points, all outlined in the application. For example, a day pass for local attendees is $75, and three-day attendance ranges from $375 for tent camping to $900 for a private tiny house. If you’ve been accepted, it means we want to make this experience work for you, regardless of financial constraints. We are actively seeking sponsorships to fund scholarships so that cost is not a barrier. All food, lodging, and programming are included in the cost of attendance.
What are your COVID precautions?
All attendees must take a provided rapid test upon arrival and must be up-to-date on vaccinations. Anyone who tests positive upon arrival will not be able to attend and will refund you 50%. Many activities will be held outdoors, and outdoor seating will be available for all meals. Masking at camp is optional, with masks available for use in common areas. Indoor masking is encouraged.
Is the camp accessible?
We aim to make Queer Kidlit Camp as accessible as possible and can accommodate most needs. Most lodging is on the ground floor with paved roads or paths, accessible to wheelchair users. Seating is fat-accessible. Accessible parking is available upon request. However, please note that the campus is not fully ADA-compliant. If you have specific accessibility needs, please reach out, and we will do our best to accommodate.
Who decides who gets to come?
A committee of kidlit professionals will review all applications anonymously and select a group of attendees that reflects the diversity of our community.
What if I don’t get chosen this year?
If you aren’t selected this year—do not fret! We receive many incredible applications and, unfortunately, cannot accommodate everyone. If you aren’t chosen, please keep an eye on this space and apply again next year.
What if I need to cancel?
Attendees who cancel more than four weeks before the start of their retreat will receive a full refund, minus a $50 processing fee. Attendees who cancel their booking between four and two weeks before the start of their retreat will receive a 50% refund. Attendees who cancel their booking less than two weeks before the start of their retreat will not receive a refund. If, for any reason, Queer Kidlit Camp cancels, attendees will receive a full refund.
Can I bring my pet?
Unfortunately, no. With advance notice, though, we can make exceptions for service animals and emotional support animals. If you have an animal that you’d like to accompany you, please email us.
Can I bring my partner?
Unfortunately, no. We only have available accommodation for applicants. If you are local and are interested in volunteering please email us.
What are your values?
We ask every applicant to commit to fostering an anti-racist, anti-Zionist, anti-ableist, trans-affirming, and queer-affirming space. We are abolitionists and believe in anti-imperialism and land back. Any behavior that conflicts with these values will result in the participant being asked to leave.
Contact information: queerkidlitcamp at gmail dot com
