Cabins
Nestled throughout our forested landscape, Merck Forest's nine rustic backcountry cabins offer a rare opportunity to truly disconnect from modern life and immerse yourself in the natural world. Our year-round accommodations provide an authentic wilderness experience where you can find both solitude and comfort among the trees.
What to Expect
Each of our thoughtfully placed cabins has its own unique character and setting, from hidden forest retreats to ridge-top cabins with panoramic views. Be sure to read each cabin's detailed description to see exactly what amenities are included, capacity limits, distance from the Visitor Center, and special features that might make it just right for your stay.
Cabin amenities vary by location, but typically include:
Wooden sleeping platforms
Basic rustic furniture (chairs, table, etc.)
Access to outhouse facilities
Fire rings for outdoor fires
Wood stoves for heat (firewood provided October - May)
Cabin Policies & FAQ
Whether you're dreaming of starlit nights in a backcountry shelter or wondering what to pack for your forest adventure, we've gathered the answers to help you prepare for a meaningful connection with the land.
Minimum stay: 1 night (2 nights on weekends and holidays)
Check-in: 1:00 PM at the Visitor Center
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Pets: Leashed dogs allowed
Group size: Varies by cabin, maximum of 12 persons
Access: Campsites are remote and campers must hike up to 3 miles with gear to get to their site. (A suggestion: pack light!) No vehicles are permitted beyond the Visitor’s Center parking area.
Cancellation: If you let us know 31+ days before your arrival, we'll happily refund 50% of your cabin fee. For cancellations within 30 days of your stay, we're unable to offer refunds.
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The FarmThis is a short 5-minute walk that is nice for families with small children. At the farm you can visit our animals and see our sap house, have a picnic (picnic tables located across from the sap house), and take in the great views. You can always continue along Old Town Road or Stone Lot Road if you decide you want a longer hike. Rated: Easy hike/walk
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Stone LotThis hike is just under 2 miles. It is a good hike for families. This is a moderate out-and-back hike with great view of Dorset Peak just beyond the farm. Take Old Town Road to Stone Lot Road near the farm buildings. Be sure to visit the American Chestnut Tree project. Rated: Moderate hike
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Birch PondThis hike is 3 miles (approx. 2 hours). This is a mild-to-moderate hike with the toughest section being the up-hill on Old Town Road. Rated: Mild/Moderate Hike
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Silviculture TrailThis hike is a little over 4 miles. The Silviculture Trail is a 2.3-mile self-guided educational trail. It provides a look at forest management. Deer and other wildlife are often spotted here. Take Old Town Road to Silviculture Trail back to Old Town Road. Rated: Moderate hike
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The GallopThis hike is 3 miles or 4 miles depending on the route (approx. 2-3 hours). Take Old Town Road and turn left onto Gallop Road. After a steady climb, you can go right to Lodge Road and follow it to Old Town Road back to the VC. To visit the scenic overlook, stay on Gallop Road until the intersection with Barton Road. The end of the trail is a steep descent to Lodge road. Follow Lodge Road back to Old Town Road. Rated: Moderate/difficult hike
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McCormick TrailThis trail can be made into a 4-mile loop (approx. 1.5 hours). Take Old Town Road to McCormick Trail to Antone Road back to Old Town Road. Rated: Moderate/Difficult hike
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Mount AntoneThis hike is 5 miles (approx. 4 hours). Take Old Town Road to Antone Road (you can take the “Ski Trail” or stay on Antone Road). There are great views from the top looking back at our farm. Rated: Moderate/Difficult hike
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LookoutThis hike is a 6 mile loop (approx. 4+ hours). A work out! You will travel through a beautiful secluded section of the forest. Take Old Town Road to Antone Road to Lookout Road. Rating: Difficult (due to length)
Other Camping Options
Beyond our cabins, Merck Forest offers alternative ways to experience an overnight stay in our working landscape. These options provide different levels of rustic immersion for adventurous visitors.
"Husband, pup, and I hiked out to the viewpoint cabin just before Christmas. As the name suggests, there is a great view! The cabin is really tiny, the bed platform is twin sized. You could sleep head to toe if you’re trying to get cozy.... Was a great trip! Going to hike back out to Viewpoint this summer with our tent!"