NJ>Batona Camp>3-1-2014

[njredneck]

Myself and my youngest are hitting Batona camp for an overnight. Any and all are welcome to join us.

[JollyGreen]

Myself and my youngest are hitting Batona camp for an overnight. Any and all are welcome to join us.

Maybe maybe maybe

[silentorpheus]

My wife let me out to play at Batona last weekend - might be pushing my luck to try again so soon, but hopefully I have a shot. :D

[SilvrSurfr]

Sounds like fun - but I'm gonna hike in this time, probably from Batsto. This car camping is killing me. I need mileage!

[SilvrSurfr]

I might add that there are others (i.e., silentorpheus) that need mileage if they're expecting to do a spring trip averaging 10 to 12 miles a day.

Just saying.

[Ratdog]

I'm willing to hoof it in from the Caranza Memorial ....just saying
Any more than that & I'm calling in sherpas

[SilvrSurfr]

So what's on the menu?

[Ratdog]

So what's on the menu?

Smacos baby!!

and we need some pallets...

slow cook some ribs in a dutch oven?

[SilvrSurfr]

Collards and black-eyed peas.

[SilvrSurfr]

One of these days we definitely need to have a raw bar - oysters and clams on the half shell. Who's in?

[njredneck]

I'm leaving the menu up to the boy. I can grab a few pallets from work.

[silentorpheus]

I might add that there are others (i.e., silentorpheus) that need mileage if they're expecting to do a spring trip averaging 10 to 12 miles a day.

Just saying.

Don't you have something better to do, like make some soft shackles or something? :D

You are right, though - but I wish there was a more manageable hike into Batona.

[Ratdog]

Checked up on the tower at Apple Pie Hill.
It was right where I left it 35 years ago.

http://i1059.photobucket.com/albums/t439/Ratdogman/b48105234feed3fcffa1217fce27b61f.jpg

90ft up, not much to see, thank goodness. Lucky to have this forest down here in SJ.

http://i1059.photobucket.com/albums/t439/Ratdogman/c4cb28c6b91467d0f64c1b67543fbaf4.jpg

I scouted a little of the Batona trail at the APH end, was too dark once I got to Batona camp to scout anything.

4.1 miles by car/dirt roads, 3.6 miles by trail. More than I remembered.

[SilvrSurfr]

You are right, though - but I wish there was a more manageable hike into Batona.

We could always slack pack. Other than that - it's day trip to Apple Pie Hill or Hampton Furnace, both about the same distance, as I recall (3.8 miles one way, 7.6 miles round trip). There's no trail to Hampton Furnace so it's roads the whole way (or abandoned railroads).

[njredneck]

I plan on getting there early and trying to talk the boy into a hike. We will see how that works out.

[Ratdog]

I'm working on getting my 12 yr old nephew to make the trip. My sister doesn't want him out for an overnight below 50 because he's a cold sleeper but we'll see.

[P-47ChowHound]

I am planning on coming. NJredneck, do I need a site,pay you????

SilvrSurfr, Will hike on Sat.

Food, TBD. Maybe some dutch oven item to go with the slow cooked ribs??
Ratdog I make a mean "cowboy baked beans" in the Dutch Oven

[Ratdog]

Food, TBD. Maybe some dutch oven item to go with the slow cooked ribs??
Ratdog I make a mean "cowboy baked beans" in the Dutch Oven

I will for sure have the Dutch Oven setup with me. Cowboy baked beans are fine by me, of course I would suggest going heavy on the meat side of the recipe. :D

[P-47ChowHound]

I will for sure have the Dutch Oven setup with me. Cowboy baked beans are fine by me, of course I would suggest going heavy on the meat side of the recipe. :D


Is there any other way?????????:D

[njredneck]

Smacos baby!!

slow cook some ribs in a dutch oven?

It wouldn't be camping without Smacos.:D
The boy says RIBS. I'll pick some up.


I am planning on coming. NJredneck, do I need a site,pay you????

I possibly have another family coming so it would be best to get your own or jump on with one of the other guys so we don't exceed the 2 car limit per site

[silentorpheus]

I think I'm in too. Got the okay from the powers that be. Not sure on timing, so I'm a probably for hiking.

Yeah, we'll likely need 2 sites. Though they don't much care about cars - we were there 2 weekends ago, one site with 3 cars, and the ranger drove right on through around 9 pm and didn't blink an eye. But just as well to err on the side of being proper.

[njredneck]

I just looked on the website and the group site is open. Do you guys think we could all fit on it? If so I'll reserve it and we won't need any other sites.

[silentorpheus]

I just looked on the website and the group site is open. Do you guys think we could all fit on it? If so I'll reserve it and we won't need any other sites.

I think technically the group site is where we had the fire ring at the winter hang. Not sure how great the tree situation is. Though chances are the camp will be pretty open. So we can probably spread out if needed, while still being covered by the car/people max on the group site. What do you think, Ratdog? You're the one who knows the rangers best.

[SilvrSurfr]

As I recall the group site has darn near no trees for hanging.

[silentorpheus]

As I recall the group site has darn near no trees for hanging.

There was enough for Iafte and his 2 boys. And Stalker. So probably 3-4. Then maybe the area between that and where we all were in the corner (site 9) had some trees, though I don't recall how good they were.

As of now the only site taken is 1 - which is right as you come in, if you bear left by the inner camp sign (where Oh-No was for the winter hang). So we could probably spread from the group site towards site 9, and still be fine as long as no one else books that.

My thought would be grab the group site, and then camp wherever, as long as no one thinks the rangers will take issue in the middle of the winter.

[Ratdog]

What do you think, Ratdog? You're the one who knows the rangers best.

I think the rangers know me might be more accurate.:eek::cool:

We can grab the group site, if we need a little elbow room we can spread out. No one will mind this time of year. Important thing is a reasonable headcount and vehicle info. Last time, the gal at Batsto wasn't too worried about all the cars, apparently there are a bunch on my profile.

There is hanging to be had behind the group fire ring and off to the sides. SparklePants was off to the left and the wedding crashers were in the back as I recall. I posted pics in the trip report thread last time.

[Ratdog]

The feeding tents have some trees, forgot SparklePants was ground pounding but the green tarp to the right was the start of a group.
http://i1059.photobucket.com/albums/t439/Ratdogman/2014-01-25102935.jpg

And this was behind the ring.
http://i1059.photobucket.com/albums/t439/Ratdogman/2014-01-25103047.jpg

[Ratdog]

I will bring some wood this time.
Also, Russo's in Tabernacle had pallets and wood outside this week.

[SilvrSurfr]

I'm working on getting my 12 yr old nephew to make the trip. My sister doesn't want him out for an overnight below 50 because he's a cold sleeper but we'll see.

My 15-year-old son Shelf Life said he would like to come, but we shall see if his mother allows him to come once she sees the weather forecast. She seems to think "winter camping" is synonymous with "attempted suicide."

He is not a cold sleeper so I think he'll do fine. I might have to give him my 0* Incubator just to be sure and I'll have to use the 20* Phoenix.

[silentorpheus]

My 15-year-old son Shelf Life said he would like to come, but we shall see if his mother allows him to come once she sees the weather forecast. She seems to think "winter camping" is synonymous with "attempted suicide."

He is not a cold sleeper so I think he'll do fine. I might have to give him my 0* Incubator just to be sure and I'll have to use the 20* Phoenix.

If he comes and you give him your incubator, you can use my 0˚ Phoenix. I can stack with my 20˚. :thumbup1:

[JollyGreen]

Right now I'm in unless the work Gods say otherwise on Friday

[silentorpheus]

Right now I'm in unless the work Gods say otherwise on Friday

Jolly - do you have a Dream Hammock?

[JollyGreen]

Jolly - do you have a Dream Hammock?

Yessir, Dangerbird and Thunderbird

[silentorpheus]

Yessir, Dangerbird and Thunderbird

If you come this weekend, would you mind bringing the TB for me to take a gander at? Strongly considering buying one but wanted to take a closer look to answer a lingering question or three. :D

[JollyGreen]

If you come this weekend, would you mind bringing the TB for me to take a gander at? Strongly considering buying one but wanted to take a closer look to answer a lingering question or three. :D

Absolutely, I was planning on testing some new gear which includes a hammock so you can try it out if you want.

[njredneck]

By my count we are sitting at 7-12 people. I'll reserve the group site and we will settle up at camp. I just need the vehicle info on everybody for the permit Sat morning.

[P-47ChowHound]

How far of a drive is it from the Batona Camp to Batsto Vil. I reserved a site for Friday night and it says I need to drive over there in the morning and register because I will get there after dark. Any one else is welcome on Friday nite.

[Ratdog]

How far of a drive is it from the Batona Camp to Batsto Vil. I reserved a site for Friday night and it says I need to drive over there in the morning and register because I will get there after dark. Any one else is welcome on Friday nite.

About 30 mins each way, maybe a little less.

[njredneck]

Site reserved for Sat.

[kayak karl]

maybe, if work takes me to Marlton Saturday :)

[silentorpheus]

So who's bringing what this time around?

I don't want Ratdog to feel left out again. That, and maybe we can avoid the "I thought you were bringing firewood" moment. :D

[njredneck]

I've got 3 pallets and some firewood in the truck. Picking up a package of ribs for dinner(we'll need more).

[P-47ChowHound]

I will have "cowboy baked beans" heavy on the meat. Plus ,,,, aint figured it out yet.:)

Some firewood. Charcoal for the Dutch Oven

[Ratdog]

I will bring;

1 Dozen Eggs (more if needed)
1 Package of Bacon (more if needed)
6 Cans of Spam (more if needed haha)
Dutch Oven and Tripod
Red Meat - TBD

Firewood - some will need splitting or a big fire to burn
The Axe known as "Pallet Wrecker", it will fall swiftly and cleanly
Should have plenty of Heat - Yellow Bottle, just in case
2 Chairs
1 small folding table, can bring larger table if needed
Extra Tarp (an old Kelty footprint)

[silentorpheus]

I will bring;

1 Dozen Eggs (more if needed)
1 Package of Bacon (more if needed)
6 Cans of Spam (more if needed haha)
Dutch Oven and Tripod
Red Meat - TBD

Firewood - some will need splitting or a big fire to burn
The Axe known as "Pallet Wrecker", it will fall swiftly and cleanly
Should have plenty of Heat - Yellow Bottle, just in case
2 Chairs
1 small folding table, can bring larger table if needed
Extra Tarp (an old Kelty footprint)

So you're just going to go with a little from every column, this time. :D

I will officially claim that I won't bring firewood. No where near me seems to have any, so might as well not pretend that I'm going to go on a hunt for some between now and then.

I don't ever cook ribs, but if someone tells me what we need, I'll hit up whole foods and get some good ones.

[njredneck]

I also have my folding table and 2 burner stove.
I vote for big fire I hate splitting wood.

[njredneck]

I don't ever cook ribs, but if someone tells me what we need, I'll hit up whole foods and get some good ones.

Loin back ribs is what it says on my package.

[Ratdog]

FYI, we might be getting slammed with snow Sun-Tues.
If we are lucky, it may arrive a day early. :D

[silentorpheus]

Loin back ribs is what it says on my package.

How are they going to be cooked?

[silentorpheus]

Oh, and does anyone want a starch? Was thinking perhaps garlic & dill potato wedges, olive oil, wrapped in foil and cooked in the coals ...

[njredneck]

How are they going to be cooked?

I season them and wrap them in foil and into the dutch oven for 2-3 hours. they should pretty much melt in the mouth.

The snow needs to hold off until Sunday. I don't want to have to leave to sit in a truck.

Potatoes sound good to me

[silentorpheus]

I season them and wrap them in foil and into the dutch oven for 2-3 hours. they should pretty much melt in the mouth.

The snow needs to hold off until Sunday. I don't want to have to leave to sit in a truck.

Okay. So no smothered in sauce stuff.

Preference as to beef or pork?

[njredneck]

Okay. So no smothered in sauce stuff.

Preference as to beef or pork?

Sauce on the side. Pork ribs

[P-47ChowHound]

Forgot about breakfast. I will throw in. dozen eggs and package of bacon.

[SilvrSurfr]

My sons aren't coming - the oldest son's train doesn't get in from Boston till 6 pm Saturday and of course the youngest doesn't want to come unless his brother does. I really don't mind - I get out in the woods for my own sake. They do come out with me every now and then so that's good.

I'll bring some firewood. Not sure what to bring in the food department - might just bring jambot and some bread. Any suggestions?

[silentorpheus]

My sons aren't coming - the oldest son's train doesn't get in from Boston till 6 pm Saturday and of course the youngest doesn't want to come unless his brother does. I really don't mind - I get out in the woods for my own sake. They do come out with me every now and then so that's good.

I'll bring some firewood. Not sure what to bring in the food department - might just bring jambot and some bread. Any suggestions?

Veggies and bread works.

[Ratdog]

Veggies and bread works.

+1

Also, just scored another stash of firewood. Will be loading the truck with wood tomorrow.

[silentorpheus]

Alright. So:

NJRedneck and I will take care of the ribs
Ratdog & Chowhound have breakfast covered
Chowhound is doing beans
SS has veggies (jambot) and bread?
I'll grab some taters too
Ratdog said something about red meat

Oh, and Smacos. :D

SS, you gonna bring your press again? Or should I bring mine? I'll bring fixin's for coffee (sugar, half & half)

What else?

[SilvrSurfr]

Alright. So:

NJRedneck and I will take care of the ribs
Ratdog & Chowhound have breakfast covered
Chowhound is doing beans
SS has veggies (jambot) and bread?
I'll grab some taters too
Ratdog said something about red meat

Oh, and Smacos. :D

SS, you gonna bring your press again? Or should I bring mine? I'll bring fixin's for coffee (sugar, half & half)

What else?

I'll bring coffee press and coffee.

[kayak karl]

if i come ill bring a PIE (http://www.penzaspies.com/pieselection.php)
Pick one;
double crusted apple
apple crumb
apple cherry
blueberry
peach
apple cranberry*
pumpkin*
mince meat*
pecan*
sweet potato*
coconut custard**
rice/pineapple ricotta**
ricotta
blueberry ricotta
peach ricotta
strawberry ricotta
multi fruit
very berry***
strawberry rhubarb**

[silentorpheus]

I'll bring coffee press and coffee.

Cool. :thumbup:

I was contemplating scallops … but we probably have enough food already.

[silentorpheus]

if i come ill bring a PIE (http://www.penzaspies.com/pieselection.php)
Pick one;
double crusted apple
apple crumb
apple cherry
blueberry
peach
apple cranberry*
pumpkin*
mince meat*
pecan*
sweet potato*
coconut custard**
rice/pineapple ricotta**
ricotta
blueberry ricotta
peach ricotta
strawberry ricotta
multi fruit
very berry***
strawberry rhubarb**

Ooh … apple cranberry … drool … :drool:

[kayak karl]

Ooh … apple cranberry … drool … :drool: had their apple-blueberry pie and blueberry ricotta last week. were great :p

[SilvrSurfr]

Strawberry rhubarb - you can never have enough rhubarb in your diet.

[njredneck]

Strawberry rhubarb - you can never have enough rhubarb in your diet.

Haven't had rhubarb in 30 years. My grandmother would make rhubarb pie fresh from the garden

[P-47ChowHound]

Strawberry rhubarb - you can never have enough rhubarb in your diet.
+1:D

+1 on the veggies and bread

Found about a 2qt of Venison Stew. :D

[kayak karl]

Strawberry rhubarb - you can never have enough rhubarb in your diet. i can only have Strawberry rhubarb with the Gorge Rats, they made me promise :(

[silentorpheus]

i can only have Strawberry rhubarb with the Gorge Rats, they made me promise :(

We'll eat it - you can watch. That way you don't break your promise. ;)

[silentorpheus]

Oh, and if I get to my office tomorrow, I have a new Strawberry Rhubarb mead in stock ...

[P-47ChowHound]

We'll eat it - you can watch. That way you don't break your promise. ;)

I second that. :)

[SilvrSurfr]

You can tell Ratdog wants to sing at the campfire but he's a bit shy. This hang could be his breakout solo or three-part harmony. He's gonna start wailing soon.

He'll work into it slowly though, like this guy in the yellow suit. I'm the driver, and that's SilentOrpheus in the middle seat.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUX-cVcBmlg

Here's another version filmed with a handheld camera, much more trippy.

6nx0oR5YG_0

[SilvrSurfr]

What time y'all rolling into camp?

[Ratdog]

I live the closest, so of course I'll be last.

Naturally I am planning on being there early to get a fire going at 4.

If folks wanted to hike to Apple Pie Hill tow watch the sunset, I can give you an offroad ride back past the cemetery of the wandering priest. (An actual historic landmark)

[njredneck]

I should be in camp around 10 or so. I still need car info from most.

[silentorpheus]

I should be in camp around 10 or so. I still need car info from most.

Sorry - I forgot. Just sent you a PM.

I'm not going to be able to get there super early. The wife has to take care of a thing or two in the morning, so I can't leave until that's done.

I'm aiming on trying to be on the road by noon - so I'll be down there hopefully by 1 or 2.

[silentorpheus]

Looks like high 30s tomorrow day, and low of 31˚ tomorrow night. Chance of rain early Sunday morning - so bring your rain gear. :D

[njredneck]

Sounds like perfect weather for a food coma. So what is the theme song for this hang?:D

[SilvrSurfr]

Sounds like perfect weather for a food coma. So what is the theme song for this hang?:D

97ECZMvbLxg

[njredneck]

97ECZMvbLxg

works for me

[silentorpheus]

works for me

Got it covered.

[Deadphans]

Enjoy the snow guys!

[Ratdog]

Was out of there before the precip started.

So I was invited to my sherpa sister's for dinner.
You will NEVER guess what is being served.

Yep, she did.
She knew what I ate all weekend and did it anyway.
Funny girl.

[njredneck]

So I was invited to my sherpa sister's for dinner.
You will NEVER guess what is being served.

Yep, she did.
She knew what I ate all weekend and did it anyway.
Funny girl.

You can't have too many. Just ask Joe.

[SilvrSurfr]

Yep - my son came home from college and we had a family dinner Sunday evening - pork ribs.

[Ratdog]

You can't have too many. Just ask Joe.

You mean 'the hollow leg kid' ? :lol:

[P-47ChowHound]

"The Hollow Leg Kid" thats funny and true.:) Good kid, pleasure to have along.
Say hello to Joe for me NJredneck