Juniata College

How do I make a reservation?

Juniata students and employees can use the Events Scheduler on the Arch (the Raystown Campus is near the bottom of the locations list). Non-Juniata renters should contact Conference and Events.

Are the facilities handicapped accessible?

Yes. Shuster Hall and upper level of Davis Lodge are handicapped accessible, other facilities are not. Please contact us about special needs.

Can I get internet access?

Yes. There is full internet coverage at Lakeside Center. Access for Juniata users is the same as on campus, and both wired and wireless access is available. Non-Juniata users can access our JCGuest wireless system. There is an open wifi network at Grove Farm but limited cell phone reception.

I'd like to have food at my event. What is available?

For food service please contact Parkhurst Dining. When planning for food, please consider keeping the meal sustainable. Save trees and landfill space, use our dishes for your event!

Do we recycle?

Yes. We recycle most typical products. Refer to the signage in each building.

Is bedding provided?

No. Please bring your own sheets (or sleeping bag) and pillows. Beds in the Lakeside Lodges are dorm sized (extra long twin) and beds in Grove Farm are standard twins.

Is there a grill available?

Yes. A charcoal grill is available at Lakeside Center (rear of Robison Lodge)and at Grove Farm. Bring your own charcoal and dispose of the coals in the receptacle (Lakeside Center) or in the fire pit (Grove Farm).

Do I need to clean before I leave?

Yes! If the facilities require extensive cleaning after a group we reserve the right to charge a clean-up fee. Please refer to the user guide or check out sheet in each facility for further instructions.

Can I bring pets?

Pets must be kept on a leash. Pets are not allowed in station buildings other than your private lodging if approved ahead of time through the Director.

Are these smoke-free facilities?

Yes. All RFS facilities (building and vehicles) are tobacco-free areas. Smoke outside only and at least 20 feet away from buildings. Do not discard cigarette butts on the ground.

Can I bring my power boat or canoe?

Yes. Guests may bring power boats. Prior arrangements must be made to use the Field Station harbor. The harbor by Grove Farm is limited access (protected research area), and any boat that has not been registered in advance will be ticketed. You can pull a boat up to shore near Lakeside Center, but there are no dock facilities. You may also bring your non-powered watercraft. Recreational boating is not allowed in the Grove Farm harbor, though you may travel through it to gain access to the lake.

Are boat rentals available?

Yes. Canoe and kayak are available to Gold Card holders and their guests. Canoes and kayaks are also available to guests attending programs and events sponsored by the Field Station. Click here for boat rental information. Power boats are not available for recreational rental, but may be available for research and education groups. Recreational rentals are available at local marinas.

Can I swim or fish?

Yes. Renters may swim in Raystown Lake at their own risk - we provide no lifeguard or protected swimming area. We recommend using the public beaches on the lake (Seven Points or Tatman Run). At Lakeside Center there is a path going down to the lake where you are welcome to swim. However, this is NOT a no-wake zone, and there is frequent boat traffic. We recommend you stay close to shore and do not swim in low-light environments. Swimming is not allowed at Grove Farm. Fishing is allowed along the shore line and you may fish in the harbor. Please stay close to the dock when fishing in the harbor. A PA fishing license is required.

Can I have a campfire?

Yes. Only in a designated fire ring. There is a fire ring outside of Grove Farm, at the recreation area by the lake at Lakeside Center, and along the Powerline Trail.

What if it snows?

The paved road in the Field Station is plowed after a snow event - it is not kept clear during a storm. In the event of a storm, please call ahead to make sure the road is open. We reserve the right to cancel a rental depending on the nature of a snow event. Users will not be charged for cancellations due to weather.

Are tours and programs available?

Yes. Tours and programs are available, depending on staff availability. Please contact us at rfs@juniata.edu with requests.

Can I hunt at the station or bring my firearm?

No. There is no hunting on RFS leased property. You may not bring a firearm onto RFS property. There is extensive hunting on the Raystown Project property; contact the Corps of Engineers for more information.

Can I bring my ATV to the Field Station?

No. There are no ATVs allowed on any Army Corps properties.

How do I get my keys and the gate combination?

Keys for Lakeside Center rentals are not typically required. The gate combination will be available from RFS staff when making a reservation.

How do I pay?

Renters will be issued an invoice from Juniata College. Payments can be placed in the blue payment envelopes and placed in the payment drop box (Grove Farm) or left with the RFS staff. Payments can also be sent by mail following the visit. We do not accept credit cards for the payment of rental fees. Checks should be made out to Juniata College.

What are the lodges equipped with?

Lodge amenities