6 Adult Running Camp Escapes to Recharge Your Running

If you’re in a running rut or looking to rediscover yourself through running or just want a little “me time,” the following running camps and retreats will help you find what you’re looking for.

RELATED: Why You Should Plan a ‘Runcation’ (And Travel Tips for Runners)

Nike Adult Runners Retreat

Feb. 22–26, Yulee, Fla.
Ussportscamps.com/running/nike

Adult runners of all levels can experience running in an African safari type of environment without having to leave the country. This five-day retreat is hosted at the White Oak Conservation Center in Florida, a 700-acre land preservation home to some of Africa’s most endangered species. Runners will have access to 25 miles of the center’s dirt roads and receive guidance from Coach Roy Benson, whose program develops personalized training plans for an upcoming goal race using his Effort Based Training method. Also, campers go on a group wildlife tour of the grounds.

Wilder Running & Writing Retreats

May 26–29 (women only), Aug. 25–28 (men and women), Sisters, Ore.
Wilderrunning.com

This three-day retreat organized by professional runner and author Lauren Fleshman is designed to plow through writer’s block, overcome running ruts and open runner-writer’s eyes to how both of their passions can overlap and influence each other. Author and sociologist Marianne Elliott offers her expertise in writing, while former professional runner and entrepreneur Lauren Fleshman takes attendees through carefully planned runs designed to both challenge and inspire your writing. In order to attend, each attendee is selected based on an extensive application process, matching personalities together for small group interaction.

PHOTOS: Scenes from a Luxurious Trail Running Camp in Colorado

Mammoth Running Escape

August, Mammoth Lakes, Calif.
Deenakastor.com/escape

Three-time Olympian Deena Kastor will be leading this running camp, but the program is less about hardcore training and running fast, and more about overall running wellness. Hence, the camp is a mix between sport, relaxation and fun that includes non-running activities like a cooking class led by Kastor, delicious post-run brunches, a sunset uphill race, and an insightful discussion about adding positivity to your life. The program is all-inclusive and meant for all levels of runners—and more importantly, reflects what Kastor believes to be the key ingredients to running success.

Hut Run Hut

July/August, Aspen, Colo.
Hutrunhut.com

This six-day run covers 100 miles from Aspen to Vail, Colo., traversing a portion of the Rockies while resting at five of the secluded 10th Mountain Division Hut Association structures, remotely nestled at 11,000 feet. The intimate adventure—only 11 spots are available, plus five running guides—is open to “anybody that is up for the challenge,” according to their site. But be aware that this run requires 10 to 25 miles of running each day at elevations between 9,000 to 13,000 feet. Otherwise, look forward to a warm rustic hut and gourmet high-mountain dinners (like grilled lamb chops and lemony kale salad) every night for a week after a long yet satisfying day of running.

REI Outessa Summit

July (Northern California), August (Pacific Northwest), September (Northeast)
Outessa.com

Although this three-day women’s-only outdoor summit isn’t strictly a running camp—with opportunities to participate in beginner to advanced climbing, hiking, camping, mountain biking, yoga, kayaking, and gourmet campfire cooking activities too—it does include plenty of trail running within a stunning alpine setting. From quick sunrise mountain runs to night runs through forested paths as well as opportunities to run with professional trail runners like Stevie Kremer and Magdalena Lewy-Boulet on every outing, this camp is perfect for the well-rounded wild woman seeking adventure.

Running With the Bruces

July/August, Flagstaff, Ariz.
Stephandbenbruce.com

Husband and wife professional running duo Stephanie and Ben Bruce lead this four-day Training Camp in their home city of Flagstaff. According to the camp description on the Bruces’ website, “The camp has no speed limits and is open to all levels of ability.” Nonetheless, expect drills and stride sessions, and a focus on improving form early on in the camp that aims to make you a more efficient runner than before. Trainees will also have access to the Bruces’ masseuse and chiropractor for bodywork and assessment, along with the endless dirt trails among the aspens and pine trees of this quaint mountain town.

RELATED: 6 Unique Destination Race Ideas for Your Next Vacation