Map showing campground location near Layton, New Jersey

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Steam Mill Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Quiet enough that road noise is minimal even on sites close to the camp road, Steam Mill Campground sits within Stokes State Forest and draws campers who want straightforward tent or small trailer camping without playgrounds or heavy foot traffic. Sites are grassy and flat with fire rings and picnic tables in good condition, and a water spigot runs cold continuously near the entrance. Cell signal is adequate for calls and texts. Bears are present in the area, so food storage in vehicles and nightly trash disposal are standard practice here. The campground connects directly to the Blue Loop trail, which links to the Appalachian Trail and Sunrise Mountain, making it a practical base for day hikes ranging from easy stream walks to longer routes into Ocquittunk and beyond. No pets allowed.

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Map & DirectionsSteam Mill Campground is located in New Jersey near Layton

Public Campground

Coordinates

41.21076664 N
74.7777154 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&T5G
Good Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Reservable
Drinking Water
Toilets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Visit Website

Reservations

+19739483820

Drive Time

47 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
58 min from Scranton, PA
1 hr 13 min from New York, NY
1 hr 22 min from Allentown, PA

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Steam Mill Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the spacious, well-equipped sites and peaceful, secluded setting. Water access can be inconvenient for sites further from the entrance, but facilities are generally well-maintained.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Kristan V.

Traveler

Reviewed Jun. 28, 2023

Remote camping site with easy access to hiking

This was my second time at this campground. I requested the same site - T220 - as it is closest to the water spring as well as not too far from the primitive toilets (although I bring my own cassette toilet). T220 is one of the sites near the camp road, while others are set further back, but there is very minimal traffic and I didn't find that to be an issue at all. Sites are separated with enough trees to feel that no one is on top of each other, but near enough to see others. Sites are clean and the tables are in good condition. Fire rings don't seem centered on their cement bases, but other than being aware of the edges as a tripping hazard this is not an issue -- no worse than any other rock or root.

The campground is along the Blue Loop trail, providing either an easy walk along the stream or an easy/moderate hike that connects to the AT with views at Sunrise Mountain. I made a fairly easy 9-mile loop this time. There are many connecting trails in Stokes and connecting to High Point State Park that can make for a harder/longer hike.

There are bears in this area, and while I've not seen one in the campground, I have seen them on the trails while staying here. I store my food in my car overnight and toss garbage bags in the dumpster nightly as well.

If you want to stay remote, be sure to pick up enough fire wood from the office when you check in. They sell the NYNJ Trail Conference Maps, too. It's a ~15 minute drive from the park office to the campground. No shortage of kindling in the surrounding forest. Decent cell signal for texts or calls. There are other campgrounds nearby if you're looking for playgrounds and entertainment. These sites are for people truly there to camp, either in a tent or small travel trailer. Enjoy!

SiteT220

Month of VisitJune

(4) View All

Dwight D.

Ranger

Reviewed Jun. 30, 2021

Good campsite, traveled for better restroom

Campsite is flat, grassy, some rocks to avoid, one tree in center, large fire ring, picnic table, short walk to the pit toilet, short walk to the water spigot that is always running and ice cold, short walk to the blue trail for hiking, nearby lake/stream, somewhat secluded though close to road entrance/exit, 10 minute drive to flush toilets and showers at lake campground, 20 minute drive to main state park and office, hiking trails available there too, firewood available for purchase at office.

Lots of nature and animal sounds day and night, saw deer, doves, robins, woodpeckers, quail(?), chipmunks, squirrels, skunk(?), and heard frogs. Lots of flying bugs, gnats, moths, flies, mosquitoes, etc. especially at night.

Good weather, a bit hot and muggy, but the breeze was cool and it didn't rain! I met a couple nice campers and we went hiking at the main park. A very good weekend.

SiteT226

Month of VisitJune

(21) View All

Ethan K.

Legend

Reviewed Nov. 1, 2018

Very primitive, but enjoyed the seclusion

I would say that Steam Mill campground was much quieter and more secluded then the rest of the camping options in Stokes State Forest. They had a fairly nice and well maintained bathroom facility. Each of the camping spots were big and outfitted with picnic benches and fire rings for cooking. The biggest negative was that the waters spouts were near the entrance so if you are staying deeper into the campground, I would consider this. Of the camping options in Stokes State Forest, Lake Oqcuittunk and Steamill were each a bit closer to High Point which offers more hiking options which was nice.

(8) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Steam Mill Campground located in Stokes State Forest?

Steam Mill Campground is located in a more secluded area of Stokes State Forest, providing a quieter camping experience than other camping options in the forest. It's situated near hiking trails, including the blue trail which is accessible by a short walk from the campsites. The campground is also located near a lake/stream, offering water access for visitors. The campsites are positioned in varying distances from the main camp road, with some closer to the road and others set further back for more privacy.

What facilities and amenities are available at Steam Mill Camping Area?

Steam Mill Camping Area offers well-maintained pit toilets/bathroom facilities within a short walking distance from campsites. Each campsite features a large fire ring, picnic table, and ample flat, grassy space with some sites having trees for shade. A continuously running cold-water spigot is available for all campers. The sites are spacious, with some like T220 positioned closer to amenities such as the water spring and toilets. The campground provides easy access to hiking trails and a nearby lake/stream for recreation.

What do reviews say about Steam Mill Campground in Stokes State Forest?

Steam Mill Campground is consistently praised for being quieter and more secluded than other camping areas in Stokes State Forest. Campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities, particularly the bathroom amenities and the constantly running cold water spigot. The campsites themselves receive positive feedback for being spacious, flat, and grassy, each equipped with good-sized fire rings and picnic tables. Site T220 is noted as being particularly convenient, offering proximity to both the water spring and toilets. Visitors also value the easy access to hiking trails and nearby water features. Overall, the campground maintains high ratings, with campers frequently returning for repeat visits.

Are there photos of Steam Mill Campground to view before visiting?

Photos of Steam Mill Campground are available online through various camping platforms and the official Stokes State Forest website. These images typically showcase the spacious campsites with their fire rings and picnic tables, the natural surroundings including the grassy terrain and trees, and nearby water features. For the most current and comprehensive collection of photos, check the New Jersey State Park Service website or contact Stokes State Forest directly. Visual previews can help you select specific sites, such as those closer to amenities or more secluded options.

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