Frequently Asked Questions:

Can you tell me a bit about the Forest? -- It is 40+ very secluded acres of native forest in the southeast part of Osage County, Oklahoma, with individual cabins, trails, and buildings for communal activities. The forest has been here forever. We have been here for 30 years, enjoying this beautiful space. We are sure you will, too.

What is offered as contemplative sitting and prayer time? Tuesday-Saturday: 7:00-7:30am sitting; 7:30-7:45am prayer; noon-12:20pm sitting; 12:20-12:30pm prayer; 4:45-5:15pm sitting; 5:15-5:30pm prayer. Sunday: 7:00-7:30am sitting; 7:30-7:45am prayer. Monday is "Forest Day" and we are in silence for the day. (No set schedule until Tuesday at 7am.) This information is also available on our Schedule page.

Are activities mandatory? -- No, of course not. :)

How much does it cost? -- We operate solely on a 'love offering' basis.

What is a 'love offering'? -- A donation from the heart.

What would be an appropriate amount for a 'love offering'? -- We gratefully accept whatever is offered. Those who give generously allow for others in need to come.

Money is tight for me right now; can I still come? -- Yes, there are many jobs at the Forest for those who are able to share time and talent, rather than treasure.

Would my donation be tax-deductible? -- Yes, we are officially designated by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) [non-profit] corporation.

Are there any rules? -- Yes, 3: no smoking in guest cabins, no pets in guest cabins, & no children under 18 on the trails.

What should I bring? -- Provided: pillows, bed linens, blankets, towels, soap, tissue, lotion, alarm clock, umbrella, flashlight, insect repellent, extension cord. Needed: your favorite pillow, toothbrush, personal toiletries, walking/hiking shoes for trails, iPod/radio/CD player/yoga mat (if needed).

What type of diet is served? -- We serve a wholesome, hearty, vegetarian diet.

What if I have food allergies/restrictions? -- We will do our best to accommodate most dietary requirements; however, if you have serious food allergies or restrictions, we will need a detailed explanation attached to your registration form. You may also want to consider providing your own food, either prepared or with ingredients and instructions for preparation.

Is walking the trails permitted if I'm not staying there as a guest? -- Yes. However, as the Forest of Peace is private property, we like to know when people are visiting, and would ask that you check-in and check-out either with a community member or by leaving a note in the main house kitchen area. As always when hiking, we suggest that you wear sensible shoes (some areas are steep), and bright colors for visibility, particularly in hunting seasons. We suggest also that you use a walking stick on the trails. We have a few available, but bring your own if you have a favorite. Please call if you have further questions about the trails.

How do I make arrangements to stay? -- Call Osage to book a cabin. You can reach us at 918.640.4838 (Osage cell phone) and 918.245.2734 (Osage house phone) -- both have voicemail, or email us here. We have a fax machine, but it is not on a dedicated line, so if you need to send us a fax, please contact us ahead of time by phone. This information is also available on our Contact page.

How do I get there? -- Click here for Google Map to our location.

Driving directions: headed west from Sand Springs, Oklahoma on Hwy 412/64 W -- Exit to the right at 177th W Avenue. Turn right onto 177th. Drive about one mile to the first stop sign and turn left onto Anderson Road. Go about 3/4 of a mile, and turn right onto North Ridge Avenue (Shell Creek West subdivision entrance). Drive about 1/2 mile to Lakeview Road, and turn right. Drive about 1/2 mile to the end of the road. Turn right onto gravel Monastery Road and follow to our parking lot.