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.
Property Operation Hours
Gates open year-round at 7:00 AM
Current Gate closing time: Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day 8:00 pm
VERY IMPORTANT: Starting Tuesday September 5, 2023 (the day after Labor Day) and going to October 1, 2023 new seasonal gate closure hours will be in effect. Gate closing time between September 5, 2023 (the day after Labor Day) thru October 1, 2023 will be 6:30 PM
NOTE: boat ramp closure times are different than property closing times – check white-board at boat ramp for ramp closing times
Entire Property, including all Trails, Parking Areas, and Reservoir Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas Day
The Visitor’s Center is open Wednesday thru Sunday 10 AM to 4 PM year-round, except for New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, the day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve 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 open from 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.