Self-Directed Residencies are for adults 18+ seeking time and space to immerse in their creative, restful, exploratory or scientific pursuits while in an inspiring landscape and campus. We welcome anyone including those engaged in a creative artistic or scientific project such as art, research, nature immersion, and getting to know this land through day-excursions. While these opportunities are ideal for artist and scientists looking for time and space in a studio for their creative work, Self-Directed Residencies are available to anyone who simply wants to spend time at PLAYA.
We encourage you to come alone, or to book a few cabins with a group of friends. Our spacious campus includes cabins and studios nestled against the edge of the Fremont-Winema National Forest’s Winter Rim on one side and the wide-open playa on the other. PLAYA’s location and rural setting is a natural incubator for creative breakthroughs and personal growth
Self-Directed Residencies are fee-based opportunities to get the benefit of a residency at PLAYA without the application process. SDRs are available in a variety of 3- or 4-night options on specific dates, but book two programs back to back and stay at PLAYA for free the nights in between.
Please review our 2026 Know Before You Go Handbook to see if a Self-Directed Residency at PLAYA is right for you! There is internet access and a landline in the main Commons lodge, but no internet or tv in the cabins to help provide a focused environment. There is limited cell service at PLAYA. Directions to PLAYA will be sent after your purchase. Meals are not included during Self-Directed Residencies.
Cancellation policy: A $50 cancellation fee will always be applied to a cancelled order. No refund 6 or less days before arrival; 50% refund 7-14 days before arrival; 75% refund 15-28 days before arrival.
Residency Eligibility
Residency Experience Summary
Application Information
There is no application for PLAYA's paid Self-Directed Residency opportunity.
When purchasing, please select the "single" or "double" option, depending on if you will be cohabitating with a partner, friend or collaborator.
For a 1 person attending a 5-day Self-Directed Residency, prices range from $140 (camping) to $920 (2-bedroom cabin). Multi-purpose art studios also available for an additional $200 for the weekend. A live/work cabin/studio costs $700 for 1 person occupancy.
See more fee details on our website!