Hours of Operation

Since 1989, Merrill Creek Reservoir (MCR) has granted access to the public to enjoy its tranquil setting, natural environment, and limited low impact recreational activities. In an effort to enhance our overall site safety and security measures, MCR will implement new public recreation times, which go into effect on May 1, 2023.

• Gates Open at 7:00 AM year-round 
• Gates Close at 5:30 PM from March 1 to October 31 

• Gates Close at 4:30 PM from November 1 to Feb 28

The entire MCR property, including hiking trails and boat ramp, will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Please park in designated parking areas only, as there is no parking permitted anywhere else at MCR, including roadside parking.  Parking along roadsides and other areas at MCR is for authorized vehicles only.

MCR is a privately owned property, please help us to keep MCR safe and secure for all to enjoy by strictly following our new property recreation hours. Thank you.

Please be aware that Parking along Merrill Creek Road prior to the gate opening is prohibited by order of Harmony Township Ordinance 0:17-11. Plan your arrival accordingly.

The Visitor’s Center is will reopen on April 5, 2023 with hours of 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., five days a week (Wednesday through Sunday), year round, except for New Years Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Veteran’s Day, July 4th, Martin Luther king Jr, Day, Thanksgiving, Friday after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Hands-on exhibits, dioramas and other displays may be seen in the Center. Also, brochures, pamphlets and general information are available. The telephone number for the Visitors Center is (908) 454-1213.