Recreation >> Picnicking / receptions
Duke Forest maintains two picnic shelters located off of Highway 751 which are available to rent. To make shelter reservations, contact the Office of the Duke Forest at (919) 613-8013.
*Please review our picnic shelter guidelines:
Duke University student organization guidelines >>
General public guidelines >>
Bobby Ross, Jr. Memorial Shelter (Gate C):
Click here for map, directions and photo. Includes a picnic shelter with a fireplace and four large picnic tables (50-75 person capacity) plus a grill. Site does not have an outhouse, electricity, or running water. The shelter is situated at the trail head for the Shepherd Nature Trail, a self-guided 0.8-mile trail through the surrounding Forest. Fee: $25.00. The combination to the entrance gate lock will be sent when payment has been received.
For information about how to reserve and pay for the Gate C picnic shelter, click here >
R.L. Rigsbee Shelter (Gate F):
Click here for map, directions and photo. Includes a picnic shelter and tables (50 person capacity), grill, outhouse, and volleyball court (net and ball not provided). Site does offer electricity and lights but no running water. Fee: $30.00. The combination to the locks for the entrance gate and the power box will be sent when payment has been received.
For information about how to reserve and pay for the Gate F picnic shelter, click here >
Comparison of Picnic Shelter Facilities
| |
Bobby Ross Shelter (Gate C) |
R.L. Rigsbee Shelter (Gate F) |
Capacity |
50-75 persons |
50 persons |
Outhouse |
|
Yes |
Electricity |
|
|
Lighting |
|
|
Fireplace |
|
|
Fire Ring |
|
|
Volleyball Court |
|
|
Nature Trail |
|
|
Running Water |
|
|
