Hey, Camp Cousins! Can y’all feel that energy in the air? We are officially on the road to our 2026 Homecoming, and let me tell you, the vibe is already shifting. When we started this journey, it was about showing the world that yes, Black people do camp. But over the years, it’s turned into something so much deeper. It’s turned into a movement of joy, a sanctuary for sisterhood, and a place where we finally give ourselves permission to just be.
For 2026, we’ve set a big, beautiful goal: 1,000 Camp Cousins.
Now, I know some of you might be thinking, "Jocelyn, a thousand people in the woods? Is there enough sage in the world for that?" But trust me, when we gather at Lake Blackshear from September 25-27, 2026, it’s not going to feel like a crowd. It’s going to feel like the biggest, best family reunion you’ve ever been to, minus that one uncle who always asks for a loan. This is about creating a space so large and so loving that every Black woman who has ever felt "poured out" can come and get her cup refilled.
A "Blackity-Black" Space Built Just for Us
Let’s be real for a second: the world can be a lot. Between being the backbone of our families, the leaders in our workplaces, and the glue in our communities, we are tired. Our 2026 Homecoming is designed to be your "Return to Joy." It’s a "Blackity-Black" experience because everything from the music to the conversations is rooted in our culture.
We aren't out here trying to "survive" the wilderness; we are out here thriving in it. We’re talking about sunrise yoga by the lake, line dancing under the stars, and our signature "Dinner in Orange" where we show up and show out, looking like the royalty we are. It’s about seeing 500, and soon 1,000, faces that look like yours, all sharing that same "exhale."
Real Talk: The "No-Stress" Camping Experience
I hear the whispers! I know some of y’all are still side-eyeing the idea of camping. You’re wondering about your hair, your sleep, and, most importantly, the bathroom situation. Listen, I’m 45, and I am not about that "dig a hole in the ground" life.
At Melanated Campout, we do things a little differently. We’re talking:
- Real bathrooms and hot showers: Yes, you can wash the day off and do your full 10-step skincare routine.
- Glamping and RV options: If you aren't a tent girlie, we’ve got you covered. Check out our guide to different sleeping options.
- Safe spaces: This is a gated, curated experience where your safety and comfort are the top priority.
I remember a cousin who came last year. She arrived with her car packed to the brim, looking so stressed. She told me, "Jocelyn, I’ve never slept in a tent in my life, but I just needed to get away from the noise." By Saturday night, she was the life of the party at the 90s themed night, rocking a full TLC 'Creep' fit and laughing harder than I’ve ever seen. She didn't just find a campsite; she found herself again. That’s what 1,000 cousins means: 1,000 stories of reconnection.
Why 1,000 Cousins? Because Our Community Deserves This
Setting a goal for 1,000 cousins isn't about the numbers; it's about the impact. There is something spiritual that happens when Black women gather in nature. We spend so much time in "strong Black woman" mode that we forget how to be soft.
When you sit by that fire at Lake Blackshear, something happens. You start talking to the woman next to you: a stranger who felt like a cousin five minutes after meeting: and you realize you’re carrying the same burdens. And then, you decide to leave those burdens right there in the Georgia woods. That is the spirit of the Camp Cousin way.
Whether you’re a camping pro or a complete newbie, you belong here. We have ladies who show up in full glam with mini flat irons: because we camp different!: and ladies who want to go completely minimalist. Both are welcome. Both are celebrated.
The 2026 Homecoming: Mark Your Calendars
We are heading to Lake Blackshear, GA, September 25-27, 2026. This is the big one. This is the reunion. This is the release.
Imagine a thousand of us. Imagine the laughter echoing off the water. Imagine the collective peace of a thousand Black women who have finally decided that their rest is non-negotiable. We are building this for the culture, by the culture.
If you’ve been sitting on the fence, let this be your sign. You don't need to know how to pitch a tent (we can help with that!). You don't even need to know how to start a fire. You just need to show up with an open heart and a pair of comfortable shoes (and maybe a cute outfit for the orange dinner).
We are healing, we are reconnecting, and we are doing it together. I can’t wait to see 1,000 of my favorite cousins in 2026. Let’s make history together, y’all.
Don’t wait too long. This homecoming is going to be one for the books, and spots will fill up fast.
Tell the group chat. It’s time to do something for YOU. Grab your spot for the 2026 Homecoming!
Tap to grab your spot, Camp Cousin 👇🏾