We went deeper and deeper into the forest. Tents and shelters disappeared, replaced by foxes, deer, and silence.
We pulled up to a small clearing, scarcely another human in sight.
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This is Steam Mill Campground in Stokes State Forest. The 16,000 acre park in northern New Jersey is popular with campers, but today we were off the beaten path.
This beautiful spot is less visited than other camping spots in Stokes. The sounds of music and conversation were replaced with bird calls.
Dinner was an incredible coq au vin courtesy of our friend Jim*. A lengthy reduction of the broth left it redolent of bacon and wine.
We weren’t the only ones who loved the smell. As darkness fell, an adorable baby raccoon wandered onto our campsite!
He was so tame, he rubbed against my leg like a cat. My friend Tim* named him Roscoe.
As he ambled back into the forest, we heard his mother scold him with a loud shriek. I guess little raccoons can be as naughty as little humans.
Our days were for exploring.
We hiked Tillman Ravine, a steep and dramatic landscape of rock and evergreen. It reminded me of the hills and pine forests of the Pacific Northwest.
After a short hike, our friend Victor* casually mentioned “I think the car is this way.” Some campers prefer the hot dogs to the hiking. 🙂
Eager to go further, I took a long stroll down an abandoned fire road. The isolation and quiet does wonders for the mind.
But I wasn’t entirely alone. A huge barred owl glided across the path and landed in a tree, looking down at me.
In all our lives, what were the odds that we’d ever see each other? But I’m glad we did!
That night, unexpectedly heavy rain came down. I suffered a catastrophic tent failure and ran to the car.
Settling into the dry seat, I was so grateful for civilization. Sometimes you need to rough it just a bit to feel that gratitude.
Despite its remote location, Steam Mill is quite livable.
There’s delicious spring water on tap a short walk away. Many sites have platforms for tents and there’s even a bathroom…sort of.
The toilet seat is like the one you have at home, but it sits above a deep pit. 😨 It may not be the Four Seasons, but it’s serviceable.
Flush toilets and showers are a couple of miles away at the Lake Ocquittunk camping area, among others.
If you yearn for quiet and wildlife, Steam Mill is for you. It’s a bit less comfy, but the tranquil beauty makes it more than worthwhile.
Hope to see you there!
What are you favorite natural spots? Leave a comment at the bottom and let me know!
More on the outdoors:
A Hidden Castle…In New Jersey?
The Real Groundhogs of New Jersey
Pine Barrens Glamping in Brendan Byrne State Forest
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*Not their real names.
Tremendous 