Frequently Asked Questions
What makes M.Ruth Retreats a social enterprise rather than a regular business?
By definition, a social enterprise is a business whose main goal is promoting social or environmental welfare rather than making or maximizing profits. As part of our commitment to shaping future generations of environmental leaders and activists, M.Ruth retreats channels all excess profit into the launching of a free nature connectivity retreat program for youth with the goal of eventually running these retreats on an annual, sustainable basis.
What sets M.Ruth Retreats apart from Other Glamping Experiences?
The unique combination of camping and glamping that our bell tents offer is unparalleled in Atlantic Canada (as is the affordable price-point of our accommodations)! The privacy of our tent sites, the size of our sprawling forested property, and the range of experience packages we offer further sets us apart. Book now!
What sets M.Ruth Retreats apart from other venue options?
In addition to the stunning old-growth apple orchard setting and convenient proximity to Fredericton, NB, we offer:
Private access to an indoor lodge with a full service kitchen and 1.5 bathrooms, 3 accommodation bell tents, 2 transparent experience domes, and 1 large event tent.
Bring-your-own beverage & private catering is permitted
Large parking area
Additional event/camping tents can be set-up on site to accommodate more guests.
What is special about M.Ruth Retreats’ Experience Packages?
Our experience packages offer guests the chance to do the things they love in a stunning and immersive natural setting. Our transparent and weather proof experience domes are located deep within the old growth apple orchard, offering privacy and rejuvenation. Experiences can be booked by individuals, couples and large groups. Adult only groups, families, and even children’s groups (with guardian supervision) are welcome.
The wide range in experience packages we offer means there is something for everyone. Moreover, our bring-your-own-beverage policy keeps packages affordable & allows for sober-friendly alternatives to popular events like paint & sips. Book now!
What is a bell tent?
A bell tent is a spacious, waterproof structure that combines the adventure of camping with the comfort of a rustic cabin stay.
With their spacious interiors, soft mattresses, and hand-picked décor, our bell tents set the stage for memorable nature retreats where you can connect with your loved ones and sleep comfortably!
Which spaces are shared? Which are private?
Our bell tents and new, orchard experience domes are private spaces, all tucked into secluded corners of our dense, old-growth orchard. Each of our bell tents boast private fire-pit spaces.
The lodge and its kitchen, bathroom facilities, games room, library, and hot-tub are communal spaces shared with other campers and the orchard caretakers who often opt to stay on site to best serve visitors. Additionally, there are outdoor barbecues, picnic tables, and eating spaces which are open to all visitors.
Is the Orchard a U-Pick?
While the orchard once served as a commercial apple operation, those days have passed and the forest has grown up around the twisty apple trees, meaning it no longer resembles the type of cultivated apple orchard you may be used to visiting in the fall. Most remaining apple trees bear only small fruit, bitter in taste (though you won’t catch the partridge and squirrels complaining)! There are delicious apples still left to be found in the orchard and the caretakers harvest many of them to make apple sauce, crumbles, etc. However, none are grown deliberately and visitors choosing to sample assume all risk.
Will I be too cold or too hot?
On colder days, the flannel sheet sets and thick blankets we keep on reserve are sure to keep you toasty inside your tent, especially if chosen to combine with a rental of our tent heater systems for $10 night (unlimited fuel included).
On warm days, all bell tents have screened windows which can be opened to control the temperature and there are countless shady spots and charming brooks to be found around the orchard, each more lovely than the last!
What about mosquitos and other bugs?
While bugs like mosquitos (and fireflies!) are an inevitable part of camping (though not particularly bad in the orchard compared to areas directly adjacent to rivers, lakes and swamps), you can evade them by using the screens on your tent doors/windows and wearing bug spray (we have different varieties available for sale including a locally made, peppermint-extract based spray that smells lovely and will shock you with it’s effectiveness)!
The lodge is always available for those seeking an indoor escape and the caretakers are happy to help you manage any problems that arise - bug related or otherwise!
Will I be safe from wildlife like bears?
Like mosquitos, wildlife sightings in the orchard are an inevitable (but definitively more charming) aspect of our combined camping/glamping experience. Historically, these sightings have only ever consisted of song-birds, partridges, squirrels, hares, deer, and one skittish red fox.
This being said, larger animals like moose (we’ve seen tracks!), coyotes, and bear likely do live in the 80+ acres of woodlot surrounding the orchard, but are assuredly more scared of you than you are of them. You are very unlikely to come across one of these animals during your stay but safety information including tips on how to handle yourself during an unexpected encounter can be found in the introductory booklet inside your tent. If you have any questions or concerns, the orchard caretakers are always happy to help!
What if I need help or have questions before, during, or after my stay?
The orchard caretakers usually remain on-site while visitors are in the orchard and are willing to go above and beyond to ensure your stay is excellent! You are also always welcome to message Madeline using your chosen booking platform.
