What to Expect, What to Bring and Where to Eat

What to Bring

-Prints to Share. Please feel free to bring a selection of your work to share. There will be plenty of surface space available inside and away from the elements to display and discuss your work. There will also be a couple of organized portfolio reviews.
Food, Snacks, Beverages, etc. If you have any special dietary needs, be sure to bring them with you as the nearby selection might not provide what you require.

-Cooler and Ice. There is plenty of ice to replenish your supply in nearby Cross Village.

-Comfortable Folding Chair. We have a few chairs for fireside and such, but it is recommended you bring your favorite camp chair to be certain you have a comfortable place to sit down and take a load off.

-Tent and Bedding. If you plan to camp onsite, be sure to bring a good tent, sleeping mat and bedding. We’ve got running water and toilet facilities, the rest is up to you. Camping is free, but very limited on my property only. No camping on the Birchwood grounds is allowed. See HERE is you plan to camp.

-Bug Spray. Although we are high and dry, there are the usual mosquitoes and other creepy-crawlies. If these things bug you, it is recommended you bring along a good repellant. Mosquitoes aren’t a huge problem though due to the lack of standing water nearby.

-Flashlight. It gets REALLY dark in the woods. Although we light the torches around the place at night, it can get pretty black in-between. We don’t go anywhere at night without the flashlight. It lets the Coyotes know you are coming.

-Rain Gear. Although it is not going to rain, it is good to have the usual rain gear just in case.

-Cash. Even in these days of debit cards and plastic, it is always good to keep a few bucks in your pocket while touring about.

-Maps. I will try to provide basic maps for everyone, but it is best to have a good one of your own. I highly recommend the Michigan County Map book. Especially if you are planning to continue on your own during or after the gathering. Nice to know where all these dirt roads and logging tracks go.

-Swim Gear. If you like the beach, this is the place. Some of the most pristine shoreline in the lower peninsula. The big lake is usually getting pretty warm by late June and the swimming is incredible. Hard sand bottoms and cool, clear water.. The best part of the summers.

-Photo Gear and Film. Last but not least.... be sure to carry what you need. There is very little nearby in the way of photo supplies aside from the usual 35 mm color films. Folks shooting digital are pretty well-versed in their need for shooting and storage. The Birchwood Inn has now gone high-speed wireless, so it is possible to upload to your server. Bring your own laptop or storage device to be safe.

Eateries:

There are several favorites for Photostock visitors in the area and as of this time we are working on obtaining discounts for our guests. In the event this is agreed upon, your registration pass will allow you a break in your meal at the following establishments.

The Crow's Nest

The Legs Inn

Moose Jaw Junction