FAQ

1. What and When is MASHOUT?

The first MASHOUT was held at the Hagan Farm (also known as the Mink Farm) in Thurmont, MD and attracted some 60 homebrewers. The event was so popular that it was repeated the next year at the same location. Subsequent MASHOUT’s have been held at Virginia Beach, VA, Fredericksburg, VA, and Flintstone (near Rocky Gap State Park), MD. In 2014, MASHOUT moved to a new, much larger location at Organarchy Hop Farm, located on a beautiful bluff overlooking the Potomac River near Oldtown, MD and Paw Paw, WV. In 2017, the event moved once again – to a lovely old farm nestled in a valley just over the Pennsylvania line near Bedford (and once again close to Rocky Gap State Park in MD). MASHOUT 2021 will be held Thursday, 19 August through Sunday, 22 August 2021 at 11828 Mason Rd NE, Cumberland, MD 21502, Google Maps Directions. The new site is 1.3 miles (3 min drive) south of the 1812 Brewery in Allegany County, MD (See Resources page for info on the brewery). Comprising approximately 180 acres, the site lies along Evitts Creek, a very scenic stream that is available for swimming by campers.

2. How early may I arrive at Mashout? When do I have to leave?

While some volunteers may arrive as early as Wednesday to help set up, regular attendees may begin arriving at 8am on Thursday. Arrival prior to that time must be approved by the MASHOUT committee. All others will be turned away. Attendees should plan to vacate the property no later than 3pm on Sunday.

3. What Facilities Are Provided at the MASHOUT Site? There will be two camping areas this year. Although there is electricity in the event area, there is no electricity in either of the main camping areas. There is also clean water available in the event area but not in the camping areas, so it is recommended that campers bring their own water supply for personal consumption. There are permanent restrooms on site that will be open during the day, but these are insufficient for a large crowd, so portable toilets will also be provided. The lower field will be for tent camping only. No vehicles will be allowed to park there. Drop off is possible but you must then move your vehicle to the upper area. This will be enforced. There is a designated area in the upper field space for self-contained recreational vehicles (such as Winnebagos). It will be on a first come, first served basis and there are no sewer hookups or electricity provided. “Self contained” is key here. A tent is the recommended sleeping facility, although popup trailers and smaller truck-mounted campers are also acceptable. This does not mean full facilities are not available. Rocky Gap State Park is about 7 miles (10 minute drive) east of the MASHOUT site. The park offers a full-facilities campground for those who prefer showers, flush toilets, and full hookups to the more primitive facilities at the MASHOUT site. The park campground also allows pets, so it may serve as a viable alternative for those who feel they must bring their pet along on MASHOUT weekend (Pets are not allowed on the MASHOUT site itself). Rocky Gap State Park also has hot shower facilities available with park admission. Also, 37 miles north of the MASHOUT site is Shawnee State Park, which features a large lake with a swimming beach plus bathhouses with showers - and no entry fees! Further details on both of these state parks is available on the Resources page. 

4. I’m Not a Camper. Are There Alternatives? Please visit our Resources page on the website for camping alternatives If you do choose to stay in a location other than the MASHOUT site, please leave the driving at the end of the evening to a non-drinking family member. We want you to return alive the next day to celebrate with us again.

5. What Equipment and Clothing Will I Need to Bring? Start with basic camping gear - tent, sleeping bag, and foam pad or camping mattress. If you lack any of these items, they can be rented at many camping supply outlets. In the Washington, DC area, Recreational Equipment Co-Op at various locations in MD and VA provides rentals for a nominal fee. Military special services facilities also rent camping gear to qualified individuals. Light clothing is sufficient for daytime, but keep in mind things will cool down at night. Bring warmer clothing than you think you'll need, remembering that weather can be quite variable in the mid-Atlantic region and can cool down even in the summer. Also, bring long pants and athletic shoes. A rain jacket will also come in handy if one of those pesky summer thundershowers blows through. * Special Note * The presence of deer ticks has been noted in the region. The deer tick is a carrier of the very nasty Lyme Disease. Please be sure to check for ticks on skin and clothes regularly, and avoid the higher grass areas on the periphery of the campground. To cut down on the amount of trash generated and keep the site environmentally attractive, those attending are asked to bring their own beer glassware and coffee mugs. It is recommended that all campers bring sufficient water to take care of personal consumption and light cleaning needs for the weekend. A 5 gallon plastic water container can be obtained at most outdoor supply stores.

6. Can I Bring Children and Pets? Children are welcome, but please plan on watching them (See Rules section). There are lots of ways kids can get hurt in a campground - open fires, axes, knives, and the like are always around. They must be supervised at all times and you are responsible for their actions and/or injury. There are steep hills, deep woods, and lots of places to get lost or hurt. Pets are not permitted at the event. If you simply can't travel without your pet, please plan to stay at the State Park campground in Rocky Gap (which allows pets) or one of the pet friendly hotels or resorts nearby.

7. What About Food? You will be on your own for MASHOUT meals this year. Because of Covid concerns, there are currently no communal food events scheduled. In past years (and hopefully once again at future MASHOUT's), there have been well received Beer and Food Pairing events in the pavilion area, open to those who wished to participate. These were fun opportunities for attendees to pair up, with one supplying beer and the other a matching food item. The pairing event would be followed by a general pot luck dinner open to anyone who would like to participate. Communal eating was always a big part of the MASHOUT experience, and we greatly hope to bring these events back in the future.

8. Will Beer and Non-Alcoholic Beverages Be Provided? Silly question! This is a major beer event! In past years, a growing number of regional commercial breweries attended MASHOUT and kindly contributed kegs, but due to Covid concerns, the 2021 MASHOUT will feature beer brought by attendees only. That said, both quality commercial craft beer and homebrewed beer will be welcomed on site. Homebrewers are asked to please contribute at least one 3 or 5-gallon keg or a case of bottles to share around. "Keg Row" at MASHOUT is always one of the most welcome sights after a long day of activities. While potable water will be available near the pavilion, it is strongly recommended that you bring your own drinking water and have ample supply with you especially on hikes, bike rides, and day excursions. Important Note on Recycling: MASHOUT recycles. We are trying to set up an on-site collection area for your use. Otherwise please carry out and recycle at home.

9. Speaking of Activities, What Does One Do at MASHOUT? Lots of things! No actual brewing of beer will take place during the event, but there is a plethora of other activities available. If you plan to venture out alone, use the “buddy” system and always let someone know where you’re headed. For a listing of activities outside of MASHOUT, visit the Resources page on the website.

MASHOUT Site Activities: The large athletic field on the site (while not available for camping) is perfect for flying toys of all sorts, so bring those kites and frisbees along. Campers are welcome to bring field games such as bocce ball, horseshoes, and newly popular games like Koob/Kubb and Pole-ish Horseshoes. Plans are also underway to feature a Cornhole Tournament, open to all comers. Details will be available at the check-in station. On Saturday evening, a DJ will provide an evening of great music for your dancing pleasure. Each evening at MASHOUT, musicians of all types are encouraged to join in informal evening jam sessions around the campfire. This tradition, started by multi-instrumentalist Chuck "Pops" Popenoe, has been ongoing for many years. If you play and would like to sit in on the fun, be sure to bring your instrument to MASHOUT. We will have a site map available at the check-in station to help you navigate our new home and locate where special events will be held. Also, be on the lookout for posted signs and temporary fencing to guide you during the event.


MASHOUT Beer Events: Beer is obviously a big part of the MASHOUT scene, and there are always several events on the agenda. Check the MASHOUT website regularly for updates.

10. What Are the MASHOUT Site Rules? Please visit our Site Rules page on the website.