The majority of recreation areas at Raystown offer a nearby picnic shelter. Many picnic shelters are available for reservation on recreation.gov. If not reserved, shelters can be enjoyed by visitors on a first come, first served basis free of charge. Each shelter and recreation area is unique. Two other sites are available in addition to the sites listed below. The Decker mini-shelter is located near Oak shelter in Seven Points and offers covered space for 2-3 tables and the "Pagoda", located at the Dam overlook, offers bench seating for observation (no tables).  These shelters are not reservable and available by walk-in only.  To learn more about amenities, click the shelters below.

 

Picnic tables and pedestal charcoal grills are available in most recreation areas (except overlooks, Snyder's Run and Shy Beaver).  Tables are available on a first come, first served basis and cannot be reserved.  On summer holiday weekends visitors are encouraged to arrive early to obtain a picnic table and grill.  There is no fee to use or park at a picnic area.

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Knowing the rules and planning ahead will help you save a lot – time, stress, money and maybe a life!  Plan before you go and get the most out of your vacation!

Raystown lands and waters are subject to Federal rules and regulations under Title 36.  Copies of Title 36 are posted on bulletin boards and available from a ranger or the Visitor Center. The following is a partial list of rules provided to address picnic and shelter related questions and concerns.

• Visitors may move picnic tables as needed.  Shelter users are requested to replace any tables removed from the shelter.
  
• Hot coals and ash may be left in the grills.  Please do not burn trash.
  
• Personal grills are permitted.  All fires must be contained to a grill (no ground fires).  Do not dump hot coals into dumpsters.
  

Shelter Users:

• The person arranging the reservation serves as the group's point-of-contact and assumes responsibility for the shelter and it's use by the group.
• Shelter reservations guarantee the shelter for daytime activities from the hours of 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Signs and other directional markers may be posted on the board provided at the entrance to each shelter.  Additional roadway signage is not permitted.  (Maps are available upon request)
• Trash cans are not provided at the shelters.  However, dumpsters are provided in the shelter parking lot.  Please remove all trash.
• Direct vehicle access may not be available.  For the safety of visitors and to avoid damage to our parks, vehicles are not permitted to drive to a shelter, on walkways, paths or over grass.  Under extenuating circumstances and only with permission may a vehicle access a shelter.  Requests for vehicle access  must be made in advance to a ranger or by calling (814) 658-3405.
• Due to exclusive catering rights, professional catering services to Seven Points shelters MUST be arranged through Lighthouse Catering at (814) 658-2229.  If another cater is preferred Lighthouse Catering must be contacted for permission first.  Fees may apply.
• Non-permanent decorations may be used at shelters.  Prior to departure all trash, decorations, tacks, tape, etc. must be removed.

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