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About This Retreat
This three-night, four-day retreat is based on the Wild at Heart program from Colorado, originally developed by John Eldredge and the Wild at Heart team. Formerly known as BASIC, it is a beginning step toward freedom.
The team at Perissos Life believes that freedom begins with a rescue and that life was meant to be an adventure with vast horizons of possibilities. Emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual wounds can bury that life under pain, disappointment, and discouragement. We use Wild at Heart materials with the goal of helping men pursue freedom and live a full life in their true identity.
Join a group of men seeking to experience Jesus and his offer of healing and restoration for the masculine heart. This is an honest exploration of what is deep and true to a man's heart: his passions, desires, wounds, and relationship with God as Father.
What to Expect
Each day includes live and video sessions, small-group time, personal time, and activities. The retreat is led by the Perissos Life team: AJ, Caleb, Kelley, Jayson, and Derek.
Dates, Arrival & Location
November 12–15, 2026
Manderley Christian Camp & Conference Center
100 Manderley Lane, Pikeville, TN 37367
Thursday, November 12: registration and arrival from 4:00–6:00 p.m. Central Time.
Thursday dinner: 6:00–7:00 p.m. Central Time.
The first session begins Thursday at 7:00 p.m. Central Time. Attendance at this session is required.
The retreat wraps up Sunday, November 15, at noon.
Lodging
Lodging is in shared small bunkhouses, typically with three to four men and a bathroom in each. Room assignments and the number sharing depend on attendance and preferences. You can include a roommate request when you register.
Coming on Your Own or with Friends?
Many men come on their own, and groups of five to ten have also joined us. We strongly encourage bringing friends so the fellowship and brotherhood can continue after the retreat.
What's Included
Three nights of lodging: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.
Eight meals: Thursday dinner through Sunday breakfast.
BASIC retreat materials: a note-taking book and pen.
A Wild at Heart Retreat T-shirt.
Resources: snacks and other materials.
On-site activities: hiking trails, zipline, disc golf, low ropes course, beach volleyball, basketball, pickleball, human foosball, and archery/archery tag.
Off-site activities: Fall Creek Falls, fishing at Fall Creek Lake (fishing license required), and horseback riding.
What to Bring
A towel and toiletries, including soap, shampoo, and a toothbrush.
Extra bedding or sleeping gear, if desired.
Gear for outdoor and sporting activities.
Acknowledgements
Due to the content and nature of this event:
1 - You must be able to attend session 1 on Thursday night to attend this event.
2 - Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult parent/guardian.
3 - Payments, including the $100 deposit, are non-refundable within 30 days of the event. Registrations cannot be transferred to another person or event.
4 - You will be given the option to turn in your phone for the weekend and check in. We highly recommend unplugging for the weekend to help you get the most from the experience. Emergency contact information will be provided.