What we’re about
Welcome to the Outdoor Club of South Jersey’s Hiking/Backpacking Meetup group.
The OCSJ is a dues-paying club that uses Meetup to schedule all activities. You must be a paid member to join the hiking group and RSVP to hiking events. Visit ocsj.org for more information about our club and how to become a member.
Membership in the OCSJ allows you unlimited free access to the hundreds of activities we offer in hiking, biking, trail maintenance, backpacking, paddling, and cross-country skiing.
Please visit our other Meetup groups to see what they offer. These are included with your paid membership, although you must join each group individually:
Biking:
https://www.meetup.com/Outdoor-Club-of-South-Jersey/
Kayaking/XC Skiing:
https://www.meetup.com/Outdoor-Club-of-South-Jersey-Canoeing/
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Casual hike at Cattus IslandCattus Island County Park Parking Lot, Toms River, NJ
It has been a few years since I have visited this park. I’m looking forward to going back. Plan is to start on the south side of the Red Trail, hike around to the Yellow Trail intersection, hike the Yellow Trail loop, get back on Red to the Environmental Center, take the Boardwalk back to the parking area. Note: last time I was on the Yellow Trail in the spring I saw multiple water snakes. A plus for me, but I know some you don’t like them. This portion of the hike will be about 4 miles and there will be one short break. We will enjoy lunch at the picnic tables off the parking area after this part. Time permitting (I need to leave at 2:30) we will walk the Main Trail, walk the recently reopened Orange Trail, and back to the cars on the Main Trail. If we get to do all of this part it will be another 2.6 miles.
Why do I title my hikes as casual? Because I’m not really slow at 22-24 minute miles, nor are my hikes particularly short, more mid-range; but I do take a break approximately every 3 miles and I also like to look at nature, take time for photos, spot interesting things and don’t mind stopping for comfort breaks. I’m in no hurry. If you need to slow down, ask. If you want to go faster, you picked the wrong leader/hike.
Be sure to bring water, even in the cold. I also recommend at least a snack for the break or lunch. Be sure to be prepared for the weather.
Please arrive a few minutes ahead of time to sign in and use the bathroom. I start the safety talk 5 minutes before and then start.Bathroom: I believe there are port-a-potties near the Environmental Center. If using be sure to arrive with extra time.
Dogs: I’m neutral. Your well behaved dog is welcome to hike with me at the back of the group. It is YOUR responsibility to determine/confirm that dogs are permitted on a specific trail. If you plan to bring your dog, please note it in the comments such that people who prefer not to hike with dogs are aware.
Take your normal tick and bug precautions. As the weather warms, ticke, chiggers and mosquitoes become more active.
I drive a dark blue/gray Toyota Sienna minivan. I hike in a skirt.
Any questions ahead of time, email theteppers@comcast.net. Problems the day of, you can text 609-742-8803.
Constant rain, wind chills below 25, heat index above 95 degrees, or other nasty weather of the same ilk cancels. If above 60 degrees and only isolated showers, hike will be on.