The West, in all its colors…

Founded by Environmental Studies graduate students at the University of Montana in 1992, Camas is a student-run biannual literary magazine. Camas aims to cultivate fresh ideas and perspectives while remaining rooted in the landscapes and traditions of art and literature in the American West. Our mission is to provide an opportunity for emerging writers and artists to publish their work alongside established voices while celebrating the land that connects us all.

“Camas is a testimonial to the raw, on-the-ground power that continues to rise out of Montana. Not only is there the fine tradition of western writing rooted in this part of the country, but it is growing, stretching, taking more risks, and bearing a greater diversity of voices. I find the words of these students and other writers deeply inspiring. They carry our imagination forward in both idealism and longing, what all readers yearn to find.”

— Terry Tempest Williams

Camas welcomes contributions and submissions of nonfiction, fiction, poetry, art and photography. Over nearly a quarter century of publication, we have been honored to feature the work of emerging writers alongside pieces by established authors such as Bryce Andrews, Rick Bass, Wendell Berry, Judy Blunt, Brian Doyle, William duBuys, David James Duncan, Derrick Jensen, William Kittredge, Bill McKibben, Ellen Meloy, Robert Michael Pyle, Janisse Ray, Sharman Apt Russell, Eva Saulitis, Annick Smith, Kim Stafford and Kim Todd.

We receive support from the Associated Students of the University of Montana, the Environmental Studies Program at the University of Montana, and many generous individuals and businesses. Camas rests on the foundation created by each of you who have purchased or subscribed to our magazine. Don't hesitate to contact us; we are eager to hear from you!

Thumbnail image credit: Steven Cordes

Meet the Editors