Camp in a Castle

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The United World College campus, which houses Montezuma Castle, sits on the edge of the 1.6 million acre Santa Fe National Forest, home to some of the Southwest’s most inspiring beauty. With its four wilderness areas, three wild rivers, and all kinds of camping opportunities, the forest provides the perfect dance getaway for those with time for an extended stay.

As for the castle itself:  it’s a window on the world of America’s late-19th-century romance with travel. Built in 1885 in the Queen Anne style, the 90,000-square-foot luxury hotel welcomed Americans of means who wanted a taste of the West. Find out more about the history of this incredible site here.


Altitude
We’ll be staying at an altitude of approximately 7000 feet, so your body will need to acclimate to the new environs—especially if coming from a much lower elevation. Campers should be prepared to pace their aerobic activity and drink lots of water for good hydration. It’s natural to feel a bit tired or more out of breath for the first couple of days. Click here for more tips for successful high-altitude travel.

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​Terrain
Montezuma Castle sits on a small hill overlooking the Field House, where dance classes and most other activities will take place. It will be necessary to walk up and down a short, but rather steep, hill (or 7 sets of 10 stairs) several times per day between these facilities. We will be offering a limited shuttle option during mealtimes for anyone interested in fewer trips up and down the hill. Parking areas will be assigned during check-in and will be located either by the athletic field or behind the castle. There are a couple of electric vehicle charging stations as well. There is no parking near the Field House, so you'll need to leave your car at your assigned area at the top or bottom of the hill. (Some dorms are located within the castle and others are situated close to the Field House.)
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Dance Space
Dance instruction will take place in the gym inside the Field House. It is a spacious, light-filled environment with air-conditioning and a suspended wooden floor.

​Dormitories

• Double-occupancy rooms; singles available for an extra charge
• Twin beds and linens provided for free, but towels are small, so you may want to bring an extra
• Communal bathroom facilities, separated by gender
• Free Wi-Fi
• Dorms are not air-conditioned, but fans will be provided and the cool mountain air is a good substitute. We suggest leaving windows open at night.
• Spacious lounges for jam sessions, after-parties and just hanging out
• Communal refrigerators for midnight snacks and more

In-Castle Dining

• Meals are held in the grand dining hall that features chandeliers by world-renowned glass sculptor Dale Chihuly
  
• Delicious options to please all palates, with vegetarian choices always available
• Salad, sandwich and entrée bars
• Local produce from the on-site garden
  

Questions? Email us.

​​Castle and Grounds

• Elegant yet laid-back surroundings, including fine original woodwork and stained glass windows
• A massive, shaded wraparound porch with rocking chairs from which to watch the birds, admire the view or just schmooze
• Nearby access to three refreshing hot springs, numerous hiking trails, and the free-flowing Gallinas River

Getting to the Castle

The castle is on the campus of the United World College, in the town of Montezuma, New Mexico. It is six miles from Las Vegas and about an hour east of Santa Fe.
Detailed directions can be found on the post-registration info page, or in your Confirmation Letter, mailed after registration.