Mornings here break through maple, hickory, and the hush of thick woods. The echo of a guitar, boots on wet leaf, smell of woodsmoke. People gather—no rush, just rhythm.
What to Expect:
🎵 Live music, roots festivals, and old-time dances on select weekends
🌲 385 acres of woods, hiking trails, and waterfalls—bring boots
🛏️ Cabin and lodge lodging with screens, shared restrooms, and hot showers
🥣 Communal meals with warm, simple food served in the dining hall
🎨 Blacksmithing demos, nature walks, and history programs for all ages
Important Information:
✔ Advanced booking strongly recommended for events, workshops, and overnight stays
✔ Day passes available for certain music/nature weekends—check calendar
✔ No pets (except service animals); most events welcome kids, but some are 18+
✔ Wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and trails; contact for specific needs
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
Local Insights
🥾 Best Trails First: Head out early for waterfall views and time alone on the covered bridge—later mornings get busier, especially on event weekends.
🥄 Maple & Music: The Maple Festival and HOOT weekends draw big crowds; bring a mug for festival hot chocolate or coffee breaks outside.
🎸 Night Sounds: Evening jams and workshops sometimes run late—bring earplugs if you're an early sleeper, or lean in and join the music.
🕖 Friday Lead Time: Arrive 30 minutes before first meal or event for check-in, bunk settling, and catching staff announcements.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Guests mention a rare mix of quiet and celebration: music drifting from the main hall, simple hearty meals, and laughter around picnic tables. Trails, waterfalls, and covered bridges get high marks, as do staff warmth and well-kept grounds. Occasional crowding during big weekends shows up, but most describe clean facilities and a sense of ease—no matter if it's a festival, school trip, or a day spent wandering. Some requests for larger restrooms or more seating, but overall praise for the land, sound, and the way people connect here.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
Best TimeS TO visit
Enjoy quiet trails and empty bridges early in the day, especially midweek. For festivals or Hoot weekends, arrive Friday before 4 PM for best lodging and smoothest check-in.
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and select trails. Cabins have step-free entries but limited accessible seating indoors—call ahead for specifics.
