Full Rental Agreement
This Rental Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into between Shagbark Ridge Barn Lodge ("Owner/Property") located near Versailles, Missouri, and the undersigned guest ("Renter"). By booking and/or occupying the property, Renter agrees to the following terms and conditions.
1.1 Reservation & Booking
A reservation is confirmed only upon receipt of a signed agreement and required deposit. The Renter must be at least 25 years of age and agrees to be the responsible party for all guests in their group during the rental period.
1.2 Check-In & Check-Out
- Check-In: 4:00 PM on the first day of the reservation
- Check-Out: 11:00 AM on the last day of the reservation
- Early check-in or late check-out may be available upon request and is subject to a fee
- Failure to vacate by check-out time may result in additional charges equal to one additional night's rental rate
1.3 Occupancy
Maximum occupancy is 40 overnight guests. Day-event guests must be agreed upon in advance. Exceeding the maximum occupancy is grounds for immediate termination of the rental without refund.
1.4 Rules of the Property
- No smoking or vaping inside any building. Designated outdoor areas only.
- Pets are not permitted without prior written approval from the Owner.
- Quiet hours are from 11:00 PM to 8:00 AM. Music and amplified sound must remain at a reasonable level out of respect for neighbors.
- Open flames are permitted only in the designated stone fire pit area.
- Guests shall not tamper with, move, or damage any furniture, fixtures, or equipment.
- Illegal activities of any kind are strictly prohibited and will result in immediate removal and forfeiture of all paid fees.
- Fireworks are not permitted on the property.
1.5 Condition of Property
Renter agrees to leave the property in the same condition as found upon arrival. This includes washing dishes, removing garbage to designated bins, and returning furniture to original positions. Excessive cleaning beyond normal use will be charged against the security deposit.
1.6 Governing Law
This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Missouri. Any disputes shall be resolved in Morgan County, Missouri.
Liability & Assumption of Risk Waiver
2.1 Assumption of Risk
Renter and all guests acknowledge that use of the property's facilities — including but not limited to the multi-sport court (pickleball, basketball, volleyball, 4-square), stone fire pit, loft bunk beds, hammocks, ping pong, foosball, outdoor cooking area, and surrounding grounds — involves inherent risks of injury.
Renter, on behalf of themselves and all guests, voluntarily assumes all risks associated with use of these facilities and activities conducted on the property.
2.2 Limitation of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by Missouri law, Shagbark Ridge Barn Lodge, its owners, agents, and employees shall not be liable for any injury, illness, death, loss, damage, or expense suffered by the Renter or any guest arising from:
- Participation in recreational activities on the property
- Use of bunk beds, loft areas, or elevated structures
- Use of the fire pit or outdoor cooking facilities
- Slips, falls, or accidents on indoor or outdoor surfaces
- Weather events or acts of nature
- Actions of other guests
2.3 Bunk Bed & Loft Safety
Upper bunks are intended for guests aged 6 and older only. Children under 6 must sleep on lower bunks or provided floor bedding. Guests using upper bunks do so at their own risk. Horseplay on or around bunk beds is strictly prohibited.
2.4 Fire Pit Safety
The fire pit must never be left unattended while burning. Children must be supervised by an adult at all times near the fire pit. Renter assumes full responsibility for safe fire pit use and any injuries or property damage resulting from improper use.
2.5 Indemnification
Renter agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Shagbark Ridge Barn Lodge and its owners from any claims, losses, damages, or expenses (including attorney fees) arising from the actions or negligence of the Renter or any member of their group during the rental period.
Damage Deposit & Property Damage Policy
3.1 Security Deposit
A refundable security deposit of $500 is required at the time of booking. This deposit is held to cover any damage, excessive cleaning, or policy violations that occur during the rental period. The deposit amount does not limit the Renter's liability for damages that exceed this amount.
3.2 Return of Deposit
The security deposit will be returned within 7 business days after check-out, provided:
- No damage beyond normal wear and tear has occurred
- The property has been left in a reasonably clean condition
- All keys, garage openers, or access devices have been returned
- No additional charges are owed
3.3 Damage Assessment
Owner will inspect the property following checkout. If damage is found, the Renter will receive an itemized statement of charges within 7 business days. The following fee schedule applies (estimates — actual costs may vary):
- Deep cleaning required beyond standard turnover: $150–$400
- Stained or damaged linens (per set): $40–$80
- Broken furniture (per item): Cost of replacement
- Smoke damage inside buildings: $300 minimum
- Fire pit misuse resulting in damage: Cost of repair/replacement
- Lost or unreturned access keys: $50
3.4 Renter Responsibility
Renter is responsible for all damage caused by any member of their group or any unauthorized guests. If damage costs exceed the deposit amount, Renter agrees to pay the balance within 30 days of receiving the itemized statement. Unpaid balances may be referred to collections or result in legal action.
3.5 Reporting Pre-Existing Damage
Renter must report any pre-existing damage or maintenance issues to the Owner within 2 hours of check-in to avoid being held responsible. Reports may be submitted by phone or text to 573-569-5580.
Cancellation Policy
4.1 Cancellation by Renter
All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing (email or text) to Shagbark Ridge Barn Lodge. The following refund schedule applies:
- More than 60 days before check-in: Full refund of all payments, minus a $100 administrative processing fee
- 30–60 days before check-in: 50% refund of total rental amount; deposit is non-refundable
- 14–29 days before check-in: 25% refund of total rental amount; deposit is non-refundable
- Less than 14 days before check-in: No refund. Total rental amount is forfeited.
4.2 Rebooking Option
In lieu of a refund, Renter may rebook for an available future date within 12 months of the original reservation date. Rebooking is subject to availability and any rate differences. This option must be exercised at the time of cancellation.
4.3 No-Show Policy
Failure to check in on the scheduled arrival date without prior notice constitutes a no-show. No refund will be issued for no-shows.
4.4 Cancellation by Owner
In the unlikely event that Shagbark Ridge Barn Lodge must cancel a confirmed reservation due to unforeseen circumstances (property damage, emergency, etc.), Renter will receive a full refund of all payments within 7 business days. The Owner's liability is limited to this refund and does not extend to travel, lodging, or other incidental costs incurred by the Renter.
4.5 Force Majeure
Neither party shall be held liable for cancellation caused by events beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to: declared natural disasters, government-mandated closures, or acts of God. In such cases, the Owner will make reasonable efforts to offer a rebooking option. Refunds in force majeure situations are at the Owner's discretion.
Event & Gathering Disclaimer
Shagbark Ridge Barn Lodge is frequently reserved for group events including family reunions, weddings, retreats, and other gatherings. The following terms apply to all event rentals.
5.1 Renter Responsibility for Guests
The Renter (the individual who booked the property) is the responsible party for the conduct and safety of all guests attending their event. This includes day guests who are not overnight occupants. The Renter agrees to ensure all guests comply with these policies.
5.2 Alcohol Policy
Alcohol consumption is permitted on the property by guests of legal drinking age (21+) under Missouri law. The Renter assumes full responsibility for ensuring:
- No alcohol is served to or consumed by minors
- Intoxicated guests do not operate vehicles on or from the property
- Alcohol consumption does not lead to property damage or disturbance of neighbors
Shagbark Ridge Barn Lodge is not responsible for the actions of intoxicated guests. The Renter accepts full liability for any alcohol-related incidents during their event.
5.3 Third-Party Vendors
Shagbark Ridge Barn Lodge is not responsible for the services, actions, quality, or liability of any third-party vendors hired by the Renter, including caterers, DJs, photographers, officiants, rental companies, or entertainment providers. All vendor arrangements are solely between the Renter and the vendor.
5.4 Noise & Neighbor Considerations
Events with amplified music, speakers, or large gatherings must conclude outdoor amplified sound by 10:00 PM. Indoor events may continue at a reasonable volume. The property is located in a rural community and the Renter is expected to be a respectful neighbor.
5.5 Decorations & Alterations
Renter may decorate the space for events with prior approval. The following are prohibited:
- Nails, staples, or screws in walls, ceilings, or woodwork
- Glitter, confetti, or loose biodegradable materials inside the lodge
- Open-flame candles without prior written approval
- Any alteration to the structure or permanent fixtures
All decorations must be removed by check-out. Renter is responsible for any damage caused by decorating.
5.6 Parking
Guests must park only in designated areas. Parking on grass, landscaping, or neighboring property is not permitted. The Renter is responsible for communicating parking guidelines to all event guests.
Emergency & Safety Information
6.1 Emergency Contacts
- Emergency (Fire, Police, Medical): 911
- Property Owner: 573-569-5580
- Nearest Hospital: Lake Regional Health System, Osage Beach, MO (~30 min)
- Morgan County Sheriff: 573-378-5481
- Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
6.2 Fire Safety
- Fire extinguishers are located in the kitchen, loft area, and outdoor cooking area
- Smoke detectors are installed throughout the lodge. Do not disable them.
- Know the location of all exits before retiring for the evening
- In the event of a fire: evacuate immediately, close doors behind you, call 911, and do not re-enter the building
- The fire pit must be fully extinguished before all guests retire for the night
6.3 Severe Weather
The Ozarks region is subject to severe thunderstorms, high winds, and tornado risk, particularly in spring and summer. In the event of a tornado warning:
- Move to the lowest, most interior area of the lodge — an interior hallway or bathroom on the main floor
- Avoid windows
- Stay informed via a weather radio or mobile alerts
- Do not shelter in vehicles or outdoor structures during a tornado warning
6.4 First Aid
A first aid kit is available in the lodge. Guests are encouraged to bring any personal medications or specialized medical equipment needed for their group. The Owner does not provide medical care.
6.5 Loft & Bunk Bed Safety
- Use the ladder to access upper bunks; do not climb the frame
- Children under 6 must not sleep on upper bunks
- The loft balcony railing must not be leaned on or climbed
6.6 Outdoor Safety
- The property contains uneven terrain and rural wooded areas. Wear appropriate footwear.
- Be aware of local wildlife (ticks, snakes, and insects are common in the Ozarks). Check for ticks after outdoor activities.
- The sport court surface may be slippery when wet. Do not use during or immediately after rain.
- Outdoor lighting is provided around the courts and main building. Use caution in unlit areas after dark.