The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/318984
E AT, P L AY, S U N For our trip, we used two Mountainsmith "Genesee 4" Tents. Altogether, the tents took twenty minutes to assemble with the rainfly and then stake into the ground. Consider- ing that they fit four people rather comfort- ably, the tents were really lightweight, each being only about 6 pounds with tent poles and stakes. That makes it super practical, whether you're camping at a campground or doing a section hike of the Appalachian Trail with a small group. There are two doors for easy in-and-out, as well opaque mesh wall panels that allow plenty of circulation and a cool breeze on warm nights. The rainfly is sprawling and provides two vestibules, so you and your things can stay completely dry through a rainstorm, as well as protected from the wind. Camp Taylor in Columbia, NJ is a great campground with something to offer every- one. They have cabins and RV sites with ac- cess to electricity, gas and wifi, as well as a good ol' fashioned tent site. The tent sites are shaded and surrounded by trees, so you're definitely out in the elements. It's a good feeling, sleeping among the trees. If you're a rugged adventurer, don't been turned off by the words "wifi" and "electricity," because the campground has direct hiking access to the Appalachian Trail. It's a beautiful and challenging hike for any avid outdoorsman. The Digest'S Outdoor Adventure 7 Co-workers, 24 Hours in the Woods Tip: When backpacking through the woods in a group, separate the tent, tent poles and stakes to distribute the weight more evenly amongst yourselves. No one wants to be the beast of burden. Tip: Plan ahead. Check the weather forecast, as well as the wildlife service and state park websites for other relevant information. For example: The night we went camping, there was a fire ban due to the low humidity, strong winds and dry brush/leaves everywhere. We were a bit blindsided by this — what's camping without a fire? Not to mention, it was freezing that night! Tip: Hydration! The forest offers few amenities, drinking water being one of them. Luckily, Camp Taylor had spigots where you can pour yourself some water, but when backpacking in the woods, there are few things more valuable than water. Finding that first water pump or spring on the trail is like striking oil. Camping puts things in perspective. You can't take things for granted. But if you're looking for leisure, Camp Taylor also has a swimming lake, boat rentals, a play- ground, and miniature golf. By Sebastian Krawiec May I June 31