Experience Nature and Creativity at Wild Basin: Writing Workshop for Teens & Young Adults in Austin, Texas
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for participants of all fitness levels; casual walking on well-maintained trails.
Overview
Discover the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve in Austin, Texas, where teens and young adults can combine nature with creativity in a unique writing workshop led by artist-in-residence Sarah Cypher. Immerse yourself in the rich hill country environment and capture your experience through writing and sketching.
Writing Workshop for Teens & Young Adults
Ages 14-23*
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About This Adventure
Join Sarah Cypher, Wild Basin's Artist in Residence, for a unique two-hour workshop that blends nature and writing. Explore an urban wildlife preserve, engage your senses, and capture the beauty around you through observation and sketching. Perfect for aspiring writers and nature lovers alike, no experience is necessary!
About
Five-Senses Nature Writing With Wild Basin's Artist in Residence, Sarah Cypher
This writing and sensory workshop is designed for teens and young adults (14–23yrs) who enjoy language arts or just like to get outdoors and try something new.
Join Wild Basin's Artist in Residence, Sarah Cypher, for a hands-on workshop where you’ll explore the wild side of your city! Spend time outdoors in an urban wildlife preserve, immersing yourself in the rich sensory world beyond your doorstep. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or just someone who loves to read, this is your chance to practice capturing all that is curious, inspiring, weird, and beautiful around you using all five senses. We’ll dive into examples of nature writing, engage with the outdoors using sketching and observation, and let the natural landscape inspire our words. Come write, explore, and create!
Students should bring a reusable water bottle, optional phone to take pictures, and wear closed-toed shoes for trail safety. We will provide all the other supplies. Part of this event may be outside using the Wild Basin trail system so sun protection is encouraged.
All supplies provided.
In the case of severe weather, we will move indoors or to the porch.
No experience or training necessary.
This workshop and the artist in residence program is supported with a grant from the Applied Material Foundation.
Duration
2 Hours
Rates
$10 per Vehicle. Space is limited so reserve your spot by selecting the calendar date and time.
Adventure Tips
Bring a notebook and pencils
Essential for capturing your observations and sketching the natural surroundings during the workshop.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The preserve's gentle trails require durable, closed-toed shoes for safe and easy exploration.
Check the weather forecast
Austin’s weather can vary; dress in layers to stay comfortable during the two-hour workshop.
Arrive early to familiarize yourself
Give yourself extra time to settle in and connect with the preserve before the session begins.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer
- Eastern bluebird
History
The preserve was established in 1974 to protect native Texas Hill Country habitat amid growing urban development.
Conservation
Wild Basin actively protects over 40 rare and endangered plant species, emphasizing sustainable public use and habitat restoration.
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Adventure Hotspots in Austin
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Notebook and sketching pencils
To record your thoughts and sketches inspired by the natural environment.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Supportive footwear for walking on dirt trails without discomfort.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in warmer months.
summer specific
Layered clothing
Adapt to Austin’s changing temperatures throughout the day.
all specific