Shelters
Our lean-to shelters offer a unique opportunity to experience the forest in its most authentic form. These three-sided structures provide just enough protection from the elements while allowing you to feel fully immersed in the sights, sounds, and rhythms of nature. Perfect for those seeking a more rustic alternative to our cabins or a basecamp for exploring remote trails.
What to Expect
Situated in thoughtfully selected locations throughout our working landscape, each lean-to offers a distinct wilderness experience. Our shelters provide a middle ground between cabin comfort and tent camping—with enough structure for shelter while maintaining an intimate connection with the surrounding environment.
Protected sleeping platform raised off the ground
Three-sided shelter design with open front
Access to nearby outhouse facilities
Fire ring for cooking and warmth
Natural forest setting with varying degrees of seculsion
Camping 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: 12:00 PM at the Visitor Center
Check-out: 12:00 PM
Pets: Dogs allowed at select cabins with advance approval
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 allowed beyond the Visitor’s Center parking area.
Cancellation: Due to the low cost of shelter rentals, reservations are non-refundable.
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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.
"We went camping here for a long weekend...We loved the place. The view were outstanding, you could see for miles and the sunset were amazing. We stayed up late a night to view the stars and it was just amazing how many more stars you can see when you are out of the light of the city. We did a lot of hiking and it was truly worth every step up to Mount Antone to see the views. This is a must see place for anyone that likes hiking and camping."