NJ>Mullica River Camp>June 15 Father's Day Hike

My daughter home from college says she wants to spend Father's Day with me, so where better than the Pine Barrens? You're welcome to join us.

My daughter has never slept in a hammock, has never backpacked, is recovering from a torn MCL (like her dad), has no idea what a tick is and has never heard of permethrin, but is willing to do whatever Dad wants on his special day.

This is not a holiday I normally celebrate in any way - in fact, I am convinced they're not my kids (though they do kind of look like me) - it's just an excuse to get out in the piney woods! It's a short 4 to 5 mile hike from Batsto to Mullica, so even my crippled daughter can make it (even if I have to carry her stuff). My two sons may also come, but I'm going regardless if anyone else comes. I've reserved site M002; if memory serves me it has plenty of trees.

Will probably do a day hike to add some mileage and get some exercise.

I'm likely in. Just working out some 'logistics'.

:D

Hiking in from Batsto is the way to go. I liked that better than the trail from Atsion. :thumbup:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by silentorpheus

I'm likely in. Just working out some 'logistics'.

:D

Hiking in from Batsto is the way to go. I liked that better than the trail from Atsion. :thumbup:

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I actually like the Atsion-Mullica hike better - Beaver Pond is impressive. Either way, Batsto-Mullica or Atsion Mullica is one of the most tick-free hikes in the Pine Barrens. Both hikes are not so brushy.

My daughter is actually training in Hartshorne Woods for this hike - much more strenuous terrain than the Pine Barrens. I'm going to reward her with some real food. Filet mignon fajitas sound good? And bacon and eggs for breakfast. I should slip a cast iron skillet in her pack for kicks and giggles.

Life has gotten in the way. Due to the rainiest June I can remember, my Little League baseball playoff games have been continually rescheduled for the last two weeks. Of course, we have to play Sat 6/15 and I can't go hiking.

Good news: daughter wants to go 6/16 on Father's Day! Instead of Mullica, we are going to hike Batsto to Lower Forge via Mullica River (so she can see what she missed). She's feeling up to the 7.5 mile hike. We are starting our Father's Day in Atlantic City with a sumptuous brunch feast at an Atlantic City casino buffet. I might play a little craps and blackjack and we should be on the trail by 3 pm.

Looking forward to a healthy hike and a fairly deserted Lower Forge campsite! Apparently nobody camps in the Pine Barrens on Sunday nights 'cause almost all campsites are open.