What we’re about
Welcome to the Outdoor Club of South Jersey’s Hiking/Backpacking Meetup group.
The OCSJ is a dues-paying club that uses Meetup to schedule all activities. You must be a paid member to join the hiking group and RSVP to hiking events. Visit ocsj.org for more information about our club and how to become a member.
Membership in the OCSJ allows you unlimited free access to the hundreds of activities we offer in hiking, biking, trail maintenance, backpacking, paddling, and cross-country skiing.
Please visit our other Meetup groups to see what they offer. These are included with your paid membership, although you must join each group individually:
Biking:
https://www.meetup.com/Outdoor-Club-of-South-Jersey/
Kayaking/XC Skiing:
https://www.meetup.com/Outdoor-Club-of-South-Jersey-Canoeing/
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Dawn's Whimsy Casual Hike at Estell Manor County ParkEstell Manor Park, Mays Landing, NJ
Be prepared for woodland trails, some cinder trail, maybe some boardwalk, maybe some asphalt, maybe a shallow water crossing; will all depend on the conditions and weather. This is a beautiful park with many ruins from a glasswork facility and an old munitions plant. It is adjacent to Stephen's Creek and the South River, both tributaries off the Egg Harbor River. Expect between 6-7 miles with my typical 20 minute break around mile 3 and another around mile 5. I'm hoping for some early sightings of mountain laurel.
Why do I title my hikes as casual? Because I’m not really slow at 22-24 minute miles, nor are my hikes particularly short, more mid-range; but I do take a break approximately every 3 miles and I also like to look at nature, take time for photos, spot interesting things and don’t mind stopping for comfort breaks. I’m in no hurry. If you need to slow down, ask. If you want to go faster, you picked the wrong leader/hike.
Be sure to bring water, even in the cold. I also recommend at least a snack for the break or lunch. Be sure to be prepared for the weather.
Please arrive a few minutes ahead of time to sign in and use the bathroom. I start the safety talk 5 minutes before and then start.
Bathroom: There are flushies just off of the start/finish parking area.
Dogs: I’m neutral. Your well behaved dog is welcome to hike with me at the back of the group. It is YOUR responsibility to determine/confirm that dogs are permitted on a specific trail. If you plan to bring your dog, please note it in the comments such that people who prefer not to hike with dogs are aware.
Take your normal tick and bug preventions.
I drive a dark blue/gray Toyota Sienna minivan. I wear a skirt.
Any questions ahead of time, email theteppers@comcast.net. Problems the day of, you can text 609-742-8803.
Constant rain, wind chills below 30, heat index above 90 degrees, or other nasty weather of the same ilk cancels. If only isolated showers, hike will be on.