UU Rowe Camp & Conference Center

In 1924 the Unitarian minister Anita Trueman Pickett founded Rowe Camp in the mountains of northwest Massachusetts. She meant it to address urgent issues of race, industry, and war. A century later the summer camp still serves young people ages eight to 18, and it welcomes and celebrates LGBTQIA+ campers. The conference center followed in 1974, and online courses were added in 2020.

The story most particular to Rowe dates from 1985. The HIV/AIDS crisis was devastating gay communities, and the center opened its doors to a public weekend for men who love men. Men who were suffering and grieving found companionship. Some who were estranged from their families built new ones. That Labor Day weekend continues, and Rowe describes it as the oldest continuous gathering of its kind in the nation, one where hundreds of lives have been transformed. The 2026 program added a chaplaincy for those who want someone trained to listen. A spring counterpart, Spring Thaw, is also on the calendar.

The land holds 16 miles of forest trails, a labyrinth, a sauna, and fire pits. Lodging runs from traditional rooms with shared baths to bunk cabins. The two-season cabins sleep six and are marked with the names and musings of generations of "Rowies." Groups of up to 90 can rent the grounds, and the kitchen bakes its own bread and makes soups, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals. Individuals can book personal retreats in the quieter months.

Rowe's own pages also list young families weekends, adult camps, and online courses. Past online presenters include Francis Weller on grief, Lewis Mehl-Madrona on Indigenous approaches to wellness, and Clark Strand on haiku. The center is at 22 Kings Highway in Rowe.