Prancing Unicorn

For Washington locals seeking a truly distinctive outdoor experience, one that goes far beyond traditional camping, Prancing Unicorn Resort and Recreation (PURR) in Shelton, WA, offers an unparalleled escape. This isn't your average manicured campground; it's a vibrant, eclectic community, an art collective, and a dynamic event venue that promises an "experience like no other." If you're someone who thrives in a creative, open-minded environment and enjoys participating in unique gatherings, PURR might just become your new favorite "home away from home" in the heart of Washington.

Prancing Unicorn Resort and Recreation (PURR) is a boutique, private campground situated at 741 SE Craig Rd, Shelton, WA 98584, USA. What truly sets PURR apart from conventional campgrounds is its identity as an art collective, makerspace, and event venue. It's a place where creativity, community, and unconventional fun converge, drawing inspiration from movements like Burning Man. As described by its patrons, PURR is a "home" for many, a testament to the strong sense of belonging and camaraderie it cultivates.

This destination is not for everyone, and PURR is transparent about this. It’s an eclectic space, sometimes "messy" with ongoing art projects and featuring a "junkyard" area for repurposing materials, which contributes to its unique charm. Some of the art displayed may even challenge conventional sensibilities, encouraging visitors to approach the space with an open mind. However, for those who embrace its alternative vibe, PURR offers a safe and private rest stop nestled amidst the sounds of birds and wildlife. It’s a place where you're encouraged to "come and make it better for the next loving people," emphasizing participation and co-creation. Regularly hosting art and music festivals, workshops, and themed events like "Love Lab" and "Neitherworld," PURR provides a continuous stream of engaging opportunities for its community members. It's a dynamic, evolving space that redefines the traditional camping experience in Washington, inviting participants to contribute to its unique atmosphere.

Prancing Unicorn Resort and Recreation (PURR) is conveniently located at 741 SE Craig Rd, Shelton, WA 98584, USA. This address places it at the doorstep to the Olympic Peninsula, making it an ideal base for Washington locals looking to explore the region's diverse natural attractions, from the Olympic National Park to the scenic coasts.

Accessibility is a key advantage for PURR, as it boasts "easy access right off of Highway 101." This ensures a straightforward and convenient drive for visitors coming from various parts of Washington, including the greater Puget Sound area. Shelton, while providing a rural feel, is a developed town with essential services like grocery stores, gas stations, and local eateries, ensuring that campers have access to necessities within a reasonable distance.

Its strategic position also makes it a popular stop for adventurers exploring the Olympic Peninsula, cyclists biking the Pacific Coast Route, or simply those seeking a unique overnight stay before continuing their journey. The direct highway access means less time navigating complex backroads and more time enjoying the destination. Despite its artistic and communal focus, PURR maintains the practical advantage of being highly accessible, allowing Washington locals to easily transition from urban or suburban environments to this distinctive outdoor retreat. This combination of seclusion and convenience is a significant draw for its specific community and provides a welcoming entry point to the natural wonders of the Olympic Peninsula.

Prancing Unicorn Resort and Recreation (PURR) offers a unique set of services tailored to its community-driven, art-focused ethos, distinguishing itself from conventional campgrounds.

• Camping: PURR provides various camping options, including:
  • Daily Open Camping: Available for tents, vehicles (less than 25 ft), and RVs.
  • RV Camping: Sites equipped with water and electric hookups (15 & 30 amps) for comfortable stays.
  • Long-Term Residential Camping: Offers year-round accommodations for members, reflecting its community focus.
  • Festival Camping: Available for multi-day events, with organizers having the option to reserve the entire campground.
• Event Venue Rental: PURR serves as a venue for private events, social gatherings, retreats, small festivals, and recurring activities/workshops. It features:
  • Two indoor dance stages.
  • Two bars and lounges.
  • Two kitchens.
  • An outside stage.
  • An outside shower.
  • A hot tub.
• Makerspace: Provides dedicated spaces and tools for members to creatively express themselves in various artistic disciplines, including:
  • Arts & crafts studio.
  • Fashion & design studio.
  • Wood/metal shop.
  • Electronic lab.
  • Commercial kitchen.
• Membership Benefits: Access to open camping, RV camping, makerspace, and resort amenities (often free for members), with the ability to reserve space for events. Membership dues are required ($30/month or $250/year).
• Work-Trade Program: Members can participate in a work-trade program, contributing 2 hours/day of work (e.g., cleaning, yard maintenance, construction assistance, event production) in exchange for a day/night of camping.
• Community Principles: Operates under a set of "PURR Principles" emphasizing intention, alignment, service, kindness, respect, participation, co-creation, communal effort, civic responsibility, and accessibility.

It's important to note that PURR is not a social club that organizes activities for its members; instead, it provides the space and infrastructure for individual members or groups to self-organize and host their own recreational and creative endeavors.

The distinct features and highlights of Prancing Unicorn Resort and Recreation (PURR) are rooted in its unique identity as an art and event-focused community campground.

• Eclectic & Artistic Atmosphere: PURR is a self-proclaimed "art collective" and "makerspace," characterized by its eclectic, sometimes "messy" environment filled with ongoing art projects. This creates a visually stimulating and creatively inspiring backdrop for all visitors.
• Community-Centric Philosophy: Testimonials consistently highlight the strong sense of "home" and family among its members, fostered by a shared set of "PURR Principles" that encourage participation, co-creation, kindness, and service.
• Dynamic Event Schedule: The campground is renowned for hosting a diverse array of events, including art and music festivals like "Love Lab" (described as a "fun event" with "lots of entertainment") and themed gatherings ("Neitherworld," "PURR Reunion"). These events are central to the PURR experience.
• Freedom of Expression: Visitors are encouraged to "come and make it better for the next loving people" and not feel confined to their individual spaces, promoting active participation and contribution to the communal atmosphere.
• Diverse Camping Options: Accommodates tents, vehicles, and RVs, with the added benefit of water and electric hookups, catering to different camping preferences, including long-term stays.
• Dedicated Creative Spaces: The presence of specialized creative labs (arts & crafts, fashion & design, wood/metal shop, electronic lab, commercial kitchen) truly sets it apart as a haven for artists and makers.
• Unique Amenities for Events: Features like two indoor dance stages, multiple bars and lounges, an outside stage, an outside shower, and a hot tub are specifically designed to support its vibrant event culture.
• Affordable Long-Term Options: The availability of long-term residential camping at a competitive monthly rate ($750/month for members) makes it an attractive and affordable living solution for those seeking a unique community environment.
• Proximity to Nature & Olympic Peninsula: Despite its active community, it's situated at the "doorstep to the Olympic Peninsula," offering easy access to natural beauty and outdoor adventures beyond the camp's gates.

For those interested in experiencing the unique atmosphere of Prancing Unicorn Resort and Recreation (PURR), learning about upcoming events, or inquiring about membership, you can reach out using the following details:

Address: 741 SE Craig Rd, Shelton, WA 98584, USA

While a direct phone number for general inquiries is not prominently displayed as a primary contact for reservations (bookings are typically managed through platforms like Hipcamp or directly for events), the nature of PURR as a community suggests that communication for members and event participants often occurs through their official website, email, or social channels. For event-specific inquiries, contact details are usually provided on the individual event pages. The address provided is the physical location for visits and navigation.

Given its distinct model, it is highly recommended to visit the official Prancing Unicorn Resort & Recreation website (often found by searching "Prancing Unicorn Shelton WA" or "PURR campground") for the most up-to-date information on booking, membership, upcoming events, and specific contact methods. This will ensure you receive the most accurate information directly from the source for this unique destination.

For Washington locals, Prancing Unicorn Resort and Recreation (PURR) offers a refreshing and unconventional alternative to traditional outdoor getaways. It's ideally suited for those who resonate with a "Burning Man" ethos, appreciate a vibrant artistic community, and seek an experience that extends beyond simple camping to include active participation and co-creation. If you're tired of conventional campgrounds and long for a space where creativity is celebrated, self-expression is encouraged, and a strong sense of belonging flourishes, PURR is undoubtedly the place for you.

Its convenient location near Shelton, with easy access off Highway 101, means that this unique retreat is readily available to residents across Washington, including those looking to explore the majestic Olympic Peninsula. Whether you're seeking an affordable long-term living solution in a supportive community, a weekend filled with eclectic art and music events, or simply a safe and private space to unwind and express yourself, PURR offers a welcoming environment. The glowing testimonials, describing it as "home" and praising "Gino and the community," speak volumes about the strong bonds forged here.

By choosing Prancing Unicorn, Washingtonians are not just booking a campsite; they are entering a dynamic ecosystem where they can contribute to and benefit from a thriving creative collective. It's a place where you're not merely a visitor but an invited participant in shaping the experience. For those with an open mind and a desire for an "amazing place to come to where you don't feel like you have to stay in your space," Prancing Unicorn stands out as a truly unique and enriching destination right here in Washington. It encourages you to "come and make it better for the next loving people," embodying a spirit of shared responsibility and continuous improvement that truly resonates with the local community.

Prancing Unicorn

741 SE Craig Rd, Shelton, WA 98584, USA