Western Artist Retreat

Echoes of the West takes place in the North Dakota Badlands.

A limited group of artists and photographers work with horses, stunt riders, and models on private locations to gather reference. Both directed setups and unscripted moments are part of the process.

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August 2 - 5, 2026

  • A man in a wagon looks at a pioneer woman

    Arrival

    The gathering opens with an evening reception at the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame. Artists, models, and invited guests gather informally ahead of the first day of shooting. Appetizers and a cash bar are available. The NDCHF museum and gallery remain open for reception guests during this time.

  • Native Americans and horses at sunset

    In the Field

    Artists will spend two days working on private locations in the Badlands with our horses, models, and period-accurate equipment. Subjects include frontiersmen, cowboys, pioneers, and Native American portrayals. Specific requests and scenes may be accommodated upon request. Meals and snacks are provided during shoots.

  • Two cowboys sit by a fence.

    Location

    Based in Medora, North Dakota, this gathering sits alongside the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Artists may wish to spend time outside the shoot exploring the area including local museums and galleries. Additional attractions include the world renowned Medora Musical and the new Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. See more location details here, including nightlife, dining, and entertainment.

Historical Characters

Models and actors will be appropriately costumed and ready to portray a variety of historical characters which may include:

  • Cowboys

  • Mountain men

  • Pioneers (including women)

  • Native Americans

  • Gold miners

  • Frontiersmen

After registration, we will follow up to discuss general scene preferences and casting needs.

Industry Professionals

We are proud to partner with Schultz Wrangling, a working film wrangling team with almost 50 years of experience in Western production work. Known for their professionally trained film horses, skilled stunt riders, and historically-accurate wagons and gear, Schultz Wrangling has been part of countless artist reference shoots across the country. Their horses and riders have appeared in major productions including Dances with Wolves, Murder at Yellowstone City, and the newly released western Rust. Most recently, they worked on the upcoming film adaptation of Louis L’Amour’s Flint. We’re proud to bring that level of quality to our creative collaboration.

Schultz Wrangling

Artist Registration

Space is limited, with priority access given to returning artists and referrals. New participants are welcome to register; group size is intentionally limited for balance.

What’s Included

Echoes of the West is a small-group working session in the North Dakota Badlands centered on art photography and Western subject matter.

Registration includes:

  • A first-evening reception at the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame with light food, a cash bar, and museum access.

  • Two days of curated photo shoots, with professional riders, models, horses, wagons, and access to select private locations

  • Meals provided on shoot days, including breakfast and dinner, with snacks and beverages available throughout the day.

  • Access to a working environment with time to shoot reference and connect with other artists

The final day is unscheduled. An optional trail ride may be available at no additional cost, based on horse availability. Artists are also encouraged to visit the Theodore Roosevelt National Park where wild horses, bison, and elk can be viewed. See more location info here.

Participants may also attend local events such as the Medora Musical and Pitchfork Fondue, or visit the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. These are ticketed separately through a group link.

  • Evening reception at the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame. Light food, cash bar, and private museum access.

    • Morning and afternoon through sunset shooting sessions with horses, riders, and models across multiple locations.

    • A mid-day break allows time away from the field.

    • Breakfast, dinner, and refreshments provided.

    • Morning and afternoon through sunset shooting sessions with horses, riders, and models across multiple locations.

    • A mid-day break allows time away from the field.

    • Breakfast, dinner, and refreshments provided.

    Shooting concludes the evening of August 4.

  • Optional morning trail ride with Schultz Wrangling at no additional cost, based on horse availability.

    Some participants remain for local events, including the Medora Musical and Pitchfork Fondue, or to explore the surrounding area including the Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Presidential Library.

Early Bird Price: $1,950 (paid in full by May 1)
Regular Price: $2,250 (after May 1)

Reserve your spot with a $500 deposit.

  • Early Bird pricing requires full payment by May 1.

  • Remaining balances are due June 2.

  • Registrations made after June 2 require full payment at registration.

REGISTER
REGISTER

Prior to the event, artists will be contacted with a “wish list” form, links to group booking for after-hours entertainment, and a more detailed schedule.

Lodging

Attendees are encouraged to stay at the Elkhorn Quarters in the town of Medora. A block of single queen rooms has been reserved for $139 a night. Reservations can be made by clicking the button below, using code ECHOESOFTHEWEST2026

Amenities include an outdoor pool, coffee maker, wifi, cable TV, and more.

RESERVE HOTEL
RESERVE HOTEL

Additional Hotels & Camping Options:

Attractions, Dining, & Nightlife

Travel Info

Medora, ND is located in the Southwest corner of North Dakota, about 30 minutes from the Montana border.

For those traveling by air, the nearest airport is in the city of Dickinson, a half hour East of Medora. Rental car information can be found on their website.
Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport

Welcome sign for Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport, with a brick base and a grassy area with trees in the background.