Battlemoor
Battlemoor
Battlemoor is the premier annual camping event hosted by the Kingdom of the Outlands in the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA). It brings together members from across the kingdom and beyond for a week-long immersive medieval experience featuring armored combat, arts and sciences, archery, equestrian activities, bardic performances, merchanting, and more.
Overview
Battlemoor typically takes place in late summer or early fall and is held at a site large enough to accommodate war scenarios, multiple fields of combat, camping for hundreds of attendees, and numerous classes and activities. The event is organized and staffed by volunteers from around the kingdom, with support from kingdom officers, local groups, and the populace.
Battlemoor is designed to be both a war and a cultural gathering—providing opportunities for both large-scale martial activities and peaceful pursuits. It serves as a showcase for the skills and pageantry of the Outlands.
Activities
Battlemoor offers a wide variety of activities for attendees, including:
- Armored Combat (war scenarios, tournaments, melees)
- Rapier and Cut & Thrust
- Archery and Thrown Weapons
- Equestrian Activities
- Arts & Sciences classes and competitions
- Bardic Circles and Performances
- Merchants' Row
- Court of Their Majesties of the Outlands
- Youth Activities
History
The first Battlemoor was held in 2010, created as a kingdom-level war event for the Outlands. Since then, it has grown in both size and scope, becoming a beloved tradition and a major destination event within the SCA's western regions. The event has been hosted at various sites over the years, including venues in southern Colorado and northern New Mexico.
2014: Formation of the Battlemoor Advisory Ministry (BAM)
On November 3, 2014, the Crown announced the formal establishment of the Battlemoor Advisory Ministry (BAM). This collective—composed of nine experienced former staff members, including a Chair and Comptroller—was created to provide continuity between Battlemoor events, stewards, staff, Crowns, and Kingdom officers. Serving at the pleasure of the Crown, BAM members offer consultation, oversight, and institutional memory to support the long-term success of the event.
Accompanying the announcement was the release of an administrative document and an event-planning timeline, both developed from five years of accumulated experience. These resources were designed to guide autocrats and staff, codify best practices, and align Battlemoor with other large inter-kingdom events that employ advisory committees. BAM meets several times a year and holds open sessions for members of the populace to share input and institutional knowledge—reflecting the Crown’s reminder that Battlemoor “runs on the sweat and inspiration of all Outlanders.”
2025: Wildlife Encounters and Early Closure
In 2025, Battlemoor experienced an unprecedented series of wildlife encounters that ultimately led to the early closure of the event. The first sightings occurred on Friday night along the upper southwest edge of camp, where bears were observed moving near several encampments. Campers in the affected area were relocated closer to the center of the site, and additional precautions—such as securing food and using deterrent sprays—were put in place.
A second incident followed when a bear entered a tent in the same region, prompting further relocations. The situation escalated on Saturday evening. After the conclusion of court, attendees were asked to remain in place while others across the site were gathered and brought to town center. Colorado Parks and Wildlife was already present to assess the ongoing activity. As officials discussed two more reported encounters—one at the equestrian camp during court and another near the Crown Prince and Princess’s camp—a bear emerged from the northern treeline in clear view of town center. The animal displayed no signs of fear or avoidance, and the sighting caused a visible stir, widely documented and shared by those present.
Given the repeated bear activity across multiple parts of the site and the proximity of wildlife to large groups of attendees, the decision was made to close Battlemoor early and evacuate. Participants were instructed either to pack their camps and depart immediately or to sleep in a secure vehicle and return the next morning, no earlier than 8:00 a.m., to collect their belongings. No injuries occurred during the encounters or the evacuation.
Conflicting Reports:
In the days following the event, accounts differed regarding the number of bears involved. Estimates ranged from two to six, and no official determination was issued. Some attendees suggested that the bears included a mother with cubs remaining close to human activity to avoid an aggressive male. Photographs shared after the event appear to show at least one juvenile bear, though the exact composition of the group remains unverified.
Organization
Battlemoor is organized by an Event Steward (or co-stewards), who oversee planning and logistics. A team of department heads manages key areas such as gate, marshaling, parking, sanitation, and land allocation. The event is officially sponsored by the Kingdom of the Outlands and follows SCA-wide policies and insurance requirements.
Registration and Attendance
Pre-registration is typically encouraged and often required for land allocation. Attendees must sign waivers upon entry and are expected to abide by the Rules of the List, site rules, and mundane laws. The event is open to all members of the SCA and newcomers are welcome.