Steam Mill Campground

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.

Very primitive, but enjoyed the seclusion

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.

Good campsite, traveled for better restroom

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!