August 12-16,
2026

A Gay Men’s Summer Retreat: Reclaiming the Wild Heart

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What to Expect

This Members only retreat brings together a circle of men seeking authenticity, mindfulness, and connection with the living world. Guided by the sacred energy of Mount Shasta. we move between stillness and adventure, from forest walks and mountain swims to shared reflection and quiet rest beneath the trees.

Here, the land itself is a teacher.

❋ INTENTION

Reclaiming The Wild Heart was born from a desire to create space. Space to breathe, to connect, and to remember what truly matters.

❋ CONNECTION

Each sunrise, each shared moment, each breath becomes part of the journey home to self, to nature, and to one another in community.

❋ FACILITATION

Stephen Baldonado is a land steward, herbalist, and spiritual host devoted to creating sacred spaces for healing and reconnection. 

❋ SANCTUARY

In the presence of this ancient mountain, we’ll shed the layers of expectation and connect with something deeper, the pulse of the earth and ourselves.

What’s included

  • Private Membership Association forested sanctuary with eco-rustic accommodations.

  • Farm to table meals prepared with love from local chef. Omnivore with vegan/vegetarian options.

  • Opening + closing ceremony around a sacred fire.

    We intentionally gather as brothers to reconnect with nature, with one another, and with the most authentic parts of ourselves. A circle of gay men coming home to the wild, authentic self.

  • A sacred invitation for to step away from the noise of the world.

    Let go of what no longer serves and rediscover the freedom of simply being.

  • Athletic and grounding hikes to local wonders: waterfalls, drinking springs, alpine meadows, and swimming in natural lakes.

    In the presence of the ancient mountains, we’ll shed the layers of expectation and rediscover freedom, joy, and soulful community.

  • Learn about local plants and wildflowers…including natural medicine from the land.

    Medicinal plant walk on a private sanctuary and plant identity on nature hikes.

  • Access to a outdoor soak tub – relax tired muscles and take in the surrounding nature.

    Enjoy the infrared sauna and sun deck.

Meet Your Host

Stephen Michael is the founder and soul behind The Sanctuary. He has been leading sacred retreats in the powerful energy fields of Mount Shasta, California. A natural herbalist, energy worker, and lifelong nature devotee, Stephen has dedicated his life to cultivating land and space where people can reconnect to the Earth and to their higher selves.

Through his stewardship, Stephen cultivates a ecosystem: a sanctuary for transformation and communion with nature. Each gathering held on the land reflects his belief that healing happens most naturally when we align with the rhythms of the Earth and the simplicity of presence.

Stephen’s work blends ancient wisdom with grounded hospitality. Guests are drawn to his authenticity, laughter, and open-hearted care, qualities that make everyone feel instantly at home. Whether tending the forest trails, preparing nourishing food, or guiding a sunset circle by the fire, he embodies the essence of service, joy, and deep connection.

Guru Sanctuary isn’t just a concept, it’s a vibration that Stephen holds and shares with everyone who visits: a space to slow down, awaken, and remember the sacredness of being alive.

Connect with stephen

Rewild your spirit. Reconnect with nature. Return to your truth.

Accommodations

Location: Private Membership Association Property in Mount Shasta. Private or shared accommodations available, pricing is all inclusive. Not included: airport transportation

ROOMS: $2222-$3333

COTTAGES: $1888-$2444

GLAMPING: $1888

READY TO RESERVE? Click button below to book a discovery call along with a $500 deposit.

Reserve my spot

Leave grounded, connected, and rewilded. Heart full, spirit alive

❋

Leave grounded, connected, and rewilded. Heart full, spirit alive ❋

Join us this summer

Reserve my spot

Frequently Asked Questions

  • There are several airport options: By far the best option is MFR (Medford, OR) where there are multiple flight options per day to other major US airports and only 1.20 hr drive. Second is RDD (Redding, CA) limited flights but a slightly shorter drive than OR. Third is SMF (Sacramento, CA) which is a 3hr drive but is an international airport.

  • This members only retreat is created by and for gay men seeking connection, renewal, and authentic presence. It welcomes men of all backgrounds, identities, and spiritual paths, whether you are deeply spiritual, simply curious, or just longing for time in nature and community.

  • Not at all. You are welcome exactly as you are. The retreat offers space for reflection, embodiment, nature connection, and inner listening, without rigid belief systems.

    Take what resonates, leave what doesn’t.

  • The retreat is intentionally small and intimate to foster trust, depth, and meaningful connection. Group size typically ranges from 8–14 participants.

  • If you feel a gentle pull toward:

    • Nature

    • Stillness

    • Authentic connection with other gay men

    • Curious about the spiritual scene

    • To reconnect with your body and inner knowing

    …it’s likely a good fit. And remember, always follow your heart.

  • Spots are limited and tend to fill quickly. Click "reserve my spot" button to schedule a discovery call and send in a $500 deposit.

    Booking details, pricing, accommodation options, and more info provided on discovery call.