The 2026 Bill Russell Foray will be held
August 28, 29 & 30 at Camp Golden Pond
The Central PA Mushroom Club invites you to join us for the 2026 Bill Russell Foray, a full weekend dedicated to fungi, field learning, and community in the woods of central Pennsylvania.
This event is held annually in honor of longtime club member Bill Russell and offers an immersive gathering bringing together mushroom enthusiasts of all experience levels for three days of guided exploration, identification, education, and shared meals in a welcoming camp setting.
Whether you are brand new to foraging or have years of field experience, the Bill Russell Foray will deepen your knowledge while building connections with others who share your curiosity about fungi.
2026 Keynote Speaker
This year’s keynote speaker is Emma Richter, a Maine-based amateur mycologist and officer of the Northeast Mycological Federation. Her presentation, “How to Appreciate Crust Fungi,” will explore the diversity and ecological importance of crust fungi, a frequently overlooked group of wood-decaying fungi. Through field photography and historical herbarium records, Emma will demonstrate how small shifts in observation can reveal a remarkable and underappreciated layer of fungal diversity across the Northeast.
Educational Program and Workshops
The Bill Russell Foray blends structured learning with hands-on exploration.
In 2026, our educational offerings include:
- Guided Collecting Walks – Saturday morning will start with a group foray led by experienced members. Participants will collect specimens for identification while learning field techniques, habitat observation, and responsible harvesting practices.
- Mushroom Identification Tables – Bring your finds back to Legacy Lodge, where knowledgeable identifiers will help determine species and discuss key diagnostic features, ecology, and look-alikes.
- iNaturalist 101 – Club member Devin Hilty will discuss how to document and share your finds using iNaturalist, highlighting a citizen science project featuring Pennsylvania fungi, and offer tips on photography, uploading observations, and contributing to community science.
- Printmaking & Mushroom Art – Club member Allan Sutley will lead hands-on creative workshops exploring mushroom-inspired printmaking techniques. Plus, learn how to make your own mushroom magnet!
- Nature Journaling – PA Master Naturalist Autumn Knepp will lead a guided session focused on observation, sketching, and field note recording, a valuable skill for both beginners and advanced naturalists.
- Cooking Demonstration – A Sunday morning session led by Em Hanley will highlight practical ways to prepare and enjoy edible mushrooms.
- Evening Programs & Campfires – Evening presentations, including the keynote address by Emma Richter, followed by relaxed campfire gatherings to continue conversations and share discoveries.
Lodging & Meals
Registration includes:
- Rustic cabin lodging (bunkhouse-style) or tent camping on the campgrounds
- All meals from Friday dinner through Sunday conclusion
- Full access to all workshops, programs, and activities
The setting is intentionally communal and camp-style—designed to encourage conversation, learning, and time outdoors.
Registration
- CPMC members & members of other NAMA-affiliated clubs – $125
- Non-members (includes CPMC membership for the remainder of 2026) – $145
- Youth (Under 18 years old, must be accompanied by a parent/guardian) – $50
Space is limited. Early registration is strongly encouraged.
NOTE: Non-members must complete a CPMC membership application at the Foray or another club event. You can also find printable applications on our Join Page, and mail in your application
If you are looking for a focused weekend to sharpen your identification skills, explore new fungal groups, and spend meaningful time in the woods with a welcoming and knowledgeable community, the Bill Russell Foray is where you want to be.
Register online today, or print and mail in a registration form with your payment, and join us at Camp Golden Pond this August.