September 24 - 27, 2027
oakhurst, california
One form. One ensemble. One unforgettable weekend.
What is Improv Utopia yosemite?
Every fall, improvisers gather at Calvin Crest in the Sierra Nevada mountains for a weekend of creativity, connection and a deeper exploration of their craft.
Recommended for intermediate and advanced improvisers, IU Yosemite offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into one improv form. You'll choose a workshop led by a master instructor and spend the weekend learning, experimenting and growing alongside the same ensemble, culminating in a group performance on Sunday evening.
It's an opportunity to challenge yourself, build lasting connections and experience the magic of creating something together.
HOW YOSEMITE WORKS
Choose Your Form
Select one of six immersive workshops when
you register
Dive Deep
Learn with a master instructor and the
same ensemble all weekend
Take The Stage
Perform your form with your ensemble on Sunday evening
Find Your Form. Meet Your Instructors.
You’ll select your workshop at the start of registration. Each camper participates in one form for the entire weekend so explore your options before choosing.
YOUR WEEKEND INCLUDES
Everything you need for an unforgettable long weekend.
10+ Hours
of Improv
Dive deep into a form with nationally renowned teachers.
Shows & Jams
Perform and watch improv throughout the weekend.
Cabin & Private Lodging
All Meals
Shared cabins and a limited number of private rooms.
8 meals included with dietary and allergy-friendly options.
Camp Activities
Community
Gorgeous views, lakeside hangs, hiking, campfires and more.
Spend a weekend with improvisers from around the world.
THIS IS CAMP
Spectacular views, immersive learning and a community like no other.
calvin crest
Oakhurst, California
Nestled among towering pines in the Sierra Nevada mountains near Oakhurst, California, Calvin Crest is a beautiful setting for a weekend of creativity and connection. With cozy cabins, peaceful forest surroundings and Yosemite National Park nearby, it's the perfect place to step away from everyday life and immerse yourself in improv.
Mountain setting surrounded by pines
Cabin and private lodging
Near Yosemite National Park
Getting there
Fresno ~1.5 hours
San Francisco ~3.5 hours
Sacramento ~3.5 hours
Los Angeles ~4 hours
Want to explore more?
Check out the Calvin Crest website →
$695 - all inclusive
Your tuition includes 3 nights of lodging, 8 meals, 10+ hours of workshops, shows, jams and camp activities.
Optional activities are available for an additional fee. See below for details.
A limited number of private rooms is available for an additional fee on a first come, first served basis:
$400 - private, hotel-style room with bathroom
$200- shared, hotel-style room with bathroom
A small processing fee is included at checkout by our registration partner Camp Network.
Reserve your spot with a $300 deposit.
Available until 60 days before camp.
Payment plans available
Scholarships are available.
Learn about scholarships →
Need help with tuition?
choose your own Saturday adventure
You're already so close to Yosemite National Park - why not explore it? Join our optional Saturday excursion for an additional fee, take an elective workshop or simply enjoy some free time at camp.
Join an optional group excursion into Yosemite National Park and experience its breathtaking beauty.
EXPLORE YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
Excursion fee: $70
Take an elective workshop
Stay on campus and learn even more improv with an optional elective workshop (TBA).
Workshop fee: $50
enjoy free time
Recharge, explore the grounds, connect with friends or just relax. It’s your weekend!
Free
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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IU Yosemite is highly recommended for intermediate and advanced improvisers, as workshops build on an existing understanding of improv concepts, best practices and forms. Some prior improv training and performance experience will help you get the most out of the weekend.
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Your base tuition covers three nights of shared cabin accommodations, eight meals, a 10+ hours of a deep dive into an improv form with expert instructors, Sunday performance and camp activities. It's an all-inclusive weekend of learning, connection and fun!
Limited private room accommodations are also available on a first come, first served basis for an additional fee.
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Yes! We offer an optional group excursion to Yosemite National Park on Saturday for an additional fee. You can also explore the park on your own before or after camp. If you'd rather stay on campus Saturday, you can take an elective workshop or simply enjoy some free time!
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Campers stay in shared cabins with bunk beds, bathrooms, hot showers, and electricity. Cabins accommodate up to 8 people. You can request an all-gender or single-sex cabin and share accommodation needs during registration.
A limited number of private rooms are available for an additional fee. You can request a private room during registration, subject to availability.
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IU Yosemite takes place at Calvin Crest Conferences in Oakhurst, California, nestled in the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains, approximately 90 minutes from Fresno. Campers can fly into Fresno, San Francisco or other regional airports. Many campers also coordinate carpools through our community groups.
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Camp kicks off Friday with arrivals starting at 4 PM, followed by dinner and your first workshop session that evening. On Saturday, campers can explore Yosemite National Park or enjoy optional activities and free time at camp before reconvening for an evening workshop. Sunday features two more workshop sessions, afternoon free time, and a grand finale performance that evening. We say our goodbyes Monday morning!
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Yes! Our camp kitchen can accommodate many dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and common food allergies. Just let us know during registration so we can plan ahead. Campers with complex dietary needs may want to bring additional snacks.
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While most activities at IU Yosemite are optional, we highly recommend attending all four workshop sessions, as each builds on the last and prepares your group for Sunday's performance. Outside of workshops, you're welcome to relax, explore, socialize or recharge. Make the weekend your own!
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IU Yosemite is designed as a complete residential retreat, so all participants must stay on-site. The shared camp experience is a big part of what makes the weekend special.
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Yes! Payment plans are available during registration, subject to deadlines, and Improv Utopia offers scholarship assistance to help make camp more accessible. Visit our Scholarships page for details.
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Join our free waitlist! We recommend joining the waitlist for every workshop you're interested in, as each has its own waitlist and priority order. Spots may open as plans change, and you'll be notified if one becomes available. You won't be charged unless you accept an offered spot and complete registration. Priority goes to first-time campers.
Still have questions? Check our general FAQ page for more information.
WHAT TO PACK
Come prepared for a weekend of improv, nature and community! This packing list covers the essentials for a comfortable stay at Calvin Crest, but everyone’s needs are different. Use it as a guide and be sure to bring anything else you’ll need to feel comfortable throughout the weekend.
SLEEP & COMFORT
Twin bedding or sleeping bag
Pillow
Towels
Toiletries (shampoo, soap, etc)
Shower shoes (optional)
Earplugs and eye mask (highly recommended)
Reusable water bottle
Daypack or tote bag
Allergy and motion sickness medication
CLOTHES
Layers (it can be cool at night)
Sweatshirts or cozy clothes
T-shirts and activewear
Pants, shorts and comfy clothes for movement
Warm jacket or fleece
Rain jacket (just in case)
Pajamas
Comfortable shoes (walking / hiking)
Sandals or camp shoes
EXTRAS
Notebook and pen
Sunscreen and hat
Insect repellent
Flashlight or headlamp
Extension cord
Musical instruments (optional)
Snacks (especially if you have dietary restrictions)
Any items that make your daily life easier
READY FOR CAMP?
JOIN US september 24 - 27, 2027 IN oakhurst.
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