Planning a successful company picnic starts with choosing the right venue. The location you select sets the tone for the entire event—from the atmosphere and activities to logistics and employee satisfaction. With so many options out there, it’s important to know what to prioritize.

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At Forest Lodge Catering, we’ve hosted hundreds of unforgettable company picnics on our 40+ acre property. If you’re searching for the perfect place to bring your team together, here are 10 essential things to look for in a company picnic venue.

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1. Ample Outdoor Space

Your company picnic needs room to breathe. Look for a venue with plenty of open space to spread out, relax, and host group activities. Forest Lodge offers over 40 acres of beautifully maintained grounds—perfect for large crowds or small departments alike.

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2. On-Site Activities and Entertainment

The best company picnics offer more than food—they create an experience. Choose a venue with built-in activities like mini golf, volleyball, inflatables, and lawn games. At Forest Lodge, we provide a wide variety of activities for all ages and energy levels.

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3. Customizable Menus

Every company is different—your menu should be too. A top-tier venue should offer flexible catering options to meet dietary needs and preferences. Our executive chef at Forest Lodge works with you to craft a menu that fits your team’s tastes and theme.

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4. Turnkey Event Planning Support

Planning a company picnic can be overwhelming—unless your venue includes expert planning assistance. Forest Lodge offers full-service event coordination to help with everything from timing and setup to signage and décor.

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5. Shaded Areas and Covered Spaces

Weather can be unpredictable. Make sure your venue has shaded pavilions, tents, or covered dining areas. Our property includes multiple covered spaces so your team can enjoy the day—rain or shine.

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6. Rain Date Flexibility

A good venue will have your back if the weather doesn't cooperate. Forest Lodge offers flexible rain date options to give you peace of mind during your planning process.

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7. Privacy and Exclusivity

Nothing kills the vibe like sharing a space with another group. Ask if your venue hosts multiple events at once. At Forest Lodge, your company picnic gets exclusive access to your designated area—no interruptions.

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8. On-Site Staff and Event Support

Don’t spend your picnic running around. A quality venue will provide a dedicated staff to manage food, activities, and logistics. Our event team ensures every detail is handled so you can enjoy the day with your coworkers.

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9. Easy Accessibility and Parking

Make sure the venue is convenient for your team to get to. Forest Lodge is located in Somerset County, NJ, with ample on-site parking and easy access from major highways—perfect for local companies.

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10. Proven Experience with Corporate Events

You want a venue that understands corporate needs. Forest Lodge specializes in company picnics and corporate outings, offering tailored experiences that align with your goals, brand, and team dynamics.

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Final Thoughts

Choosing the right venue is the first step toward planning an unforgettable company picnic. From spacious grounds and customizable menus to rain date flexibility and full-service support, Forest Lodge checks all the boxes.

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Ready to plan your next company picnic?Schedule a tour of Forest Lodge and see why companies throughout New Jersey choose us for their most important team events.

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