Unlocking the Stories of the Smokies: the Steve Kemp Writer’s Residency
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a place where stories are waiting to be discovered. Every ridge, every valley seems to whisper tales of the past and echo promises of future adventures. Recognizing the rich narrative potential within the Smokies, Smokies Life, a dedicated nonprofit, has taken it upon itself to ensure that these stories are brought to life through its various programs. Our 4% donation went to supporting the Steve Kemp Writer’s Residency. Since 2019, this program has provided writers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Smokies while focusing on their craft.
Named in honor of Steve Kemp, a longtime contributor to Smokies Life with countless books and articles to his name, the residency offers one writer per year a six-week retreat in the park. It’s more than just an opportunity to write in peace; it’s a chance to connect deeply with the land and the people who have devoted their lives to preserving it.
For this year’s writer in residence, Daron K. Roberts, the experience has been transformative. Despite already having a successful writing career, Roberts found his creative journey reshaped by his participation in another Smokies Life program: the Tremont Writers Conference.
Launched just last year, this conference, co-hosted by Smokies Life and the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, brings together writers of all genres—fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. Nestled in the lush, secluded campus within the heart of the national park, the five-day retreat allows writers to connect with renowned authors, engage with professional park educators, and draw inspiration from the breathtaking surroundings.
The Tremont Writers Conference will return for its second year from October 23-27, promising another round of creativity and community-building for writers eager to explore new avenues in their craft. This program is quickly becoming a beacon for those who want to elevate storytelling in America’s most-visited national park, fostering a deeper connection between writers and the natural world that surrounds them.
Through these initiatives, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not just a place of natural wonder but also a sanctuary for creative exploration. These programs ensure that the stories of the Smokies—both old and new—are told, cherished, and shared with the world.
To learn more about Smokies Life, click here.
