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Applications for a permit must be submitted at least two weeks in advance and cannot be accepted more than one year prior to your event. While most applications will fall within this timeframe, complex uses or activities may require additional time for processing. Please review the following applications to find the version that best suits your request. If you are unsure which application to use, contact the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Permit Office.
Note: Permits may require an application fee, cost recovery charges, a location fee, and/or proof of liability insurance naming the United States as additionally insured.
Download and complete the appropriate application form above. Applications must include:
Applicant information, including name, contact information, and organization details
Information about the proposed activity, including purpose, requested dates, activity location, and number of participants
Signature of the applicant
Application fee (if required)
Submit application to MABI_SAGA_Permits@nps.gov. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis and are typically answered within one week.
Once your application is complete, you will be provided with a link to pay the $100.00 nonrefundable application fee via eBill on pay.gov.
Application Review/Special Use Permit Confirmation
After the application fee is paid, park management will review your application.
Once approved, a final permit will be issued, and both parties sign. Reservations are not confirmed until this stage.
After your permitted activity is complete, you will be sent a finalized cost and bill for any additional cost recovery.
Left: Forest Center exterior in summer; Right: Forest Center classroom
NPS Photo
Forest Center
The Forest Center serves as a classroom and meeting space at the park. It is the first building in the national park system constructed entirely with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood. A partnership project of the National Park Service and The Woodstock Foundation, the Center has been awarded Platinum Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification by the U.S. Green Building Council.
Capacity:
Maximum building occupancy: 75 (standing only)
Sitting, Auditorium-Style: 45 people
Sitting, Classroom-Style: 36 people
Availability:
Standard Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Forest Center may be rented outside of these hours for an additional fee.
Facility Rules:
Groups will receive a comprehensive list of rules and regulations prior to signing a Special Use Permit. Key guidelines include:
Parking: All vehicles, except those requiring accessible parking, must park in the Billings Farm & Museum Overflow Lot.
See Directions for additional information regarding vehicles.
Smoking & Alcohol: Smoking is prohibited within 25 feet of all building exteriors. Alcohol is not permitted without prior approval from the Superintendent.
Business Operations: Advertising, soliciting, collecting fees, or selling goods or services is not permitted on NPS lands. Commercial activities require a separate Commercial Use Authorization. All advertising must be approved in advance and may not imply endorsement by the NPS.
Amenities:
Two Accessible Restrooms
Kitchenette:
Appliances: Refrigerator, sink, dishwasher, and microwave
Full inventory of catering supplies available on request.
Audio/Visual Equipment:
85" wall-mounted TV with an HDMI cable for laptop connectivity
One Verizon MiFi hotspot device (located in the TV cabinet)
Note: There is no Wi-Fi on site. Hot spot devices and cell data generally work well. If you need internet access for more than one user, we recommend bringing additional devices.
Facilitation Supplies:
White boards, flip charts, sticky notes, masking tape, markers, pens, etc.
Directions to the Forest Center
Parking for Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is located at the Billings Farm & Museum, just off Route 12, 1/2 mile north of Woodstock. Click here for Google directions.
Directions from Woodstock Village:
Cross the Elm St iron bridge.
Drive past the entrance to Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller on your left.
Take a right onto Old River Road.
The Billings Farm & Museum Visitor Center parking lot is immediately on the right.
Parking Information:
Free parking is available in two lots:
The main lot adjacent to the Billings Farm Visitor Center.
An overflow lot immediately on your left after turning onto Old River Road. Please use the RV/Overflow lot.
Limited accessible parking is available at the Forest Center. If possible, please reach out in advance to arrange accessible parking so that we can provide gate access and notify service vehicles. Please limit on-site vehicles to as few as possible. More information on accessibility in the park.
Note: A limited number of vehicles may park in the circle drive for up to 15 minutes to drop off catering and meeting supplies.
To Enter Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park on Foot:
Take the paved path to the right of the Billings Farm & Museum Visitor Center.
Walk up and cross the street.
Take the right fork and walk 1/8 mile to reach the Forest Center.