Summer 2016 – Delaware & New Jersey
Saturday, June 18th – Wednesday, June 22nd
Camping at Lums Pond State Park
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The drive from Maryland to Delaware again took us through many agricultural farmlands. We never knew this part of the country had so many farms. We also drove across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge from Maryland to Delaware. Because of the shipping lanes, this bridge was very high for large ships to pass under, and the toll was $20 (WOW).
We arrived at Lums Pond State Park campground after a nice drive through Delaware. This State Park campground had just been remodeled with full hook-ups for RVs. Also the sites were very large and shady. There is a small lake with trails all around, plus many activities to enjoy. We were surprised to find that some of the trails in the park were for mountain biking. Nothing very advanced, but fun flowy trails. These trails were fun to ride and easy to access right from our campsite.
One day we drove to White Clay Creek State Park, which has highly rated mountain bike trails. We spent a couple of hours riding these forested trails, but then we had to leave as a thunderstorm was approaching. We did enjoy riding the trails and the challenges presented.
Another day we drove over to a small town, White Crystal Beach, on the Chesapeake Bay. The scenery was again very beautiful, with more farms. The little towns in this area were founded back in the colonial days, and very quaint with lots of history.
We also enjoyed simply relaxing at this nice park. After days of running around D.C., this was a nice place to chill. The dogs also enjoyed being outside more and soaking up the sun.
Camping at Turkey Swamp Park, New Jersey
Thursday, June 23rd – Monday, June 27th
The purpose of this stop in New Jersey was primarily to visit some longtime friends. Jay and Chrissie Patel have been friends since the guys worked together at the Space Center back in the early 90’s. They had relocated back to their home state of N.J. They now have two sons, Luke and Jake.
We camped at the closest campground to their home in Middletown, Turkey Swamp Park. Even though it was a 25 mile drive to their place, we went there every day to visit and hang out with them. It had been over 10 years since we had seen them. They have a lovely home with a gorgeous backyard and pool. It was so nice to see them again and get to know their sons. We mostly spent time at their home and with other friends. One evening we went to watch an equestrian event in which Chrissie was competing. She really enjoys riding horses and is continuing to learn more about riding competition. She rides with her sister-in-law who owns the horses.
On Sunday, we all drove over to Sea Bright Beach on the Jersey shore. Wow, the beaches up here are so different from S. Florida. First of all, there is admission to the beaches and then there is paid parking, and they are packed! The locals buy season passes that cover both fees. We met them and some other friends there to hang out and enjoy the ocean and sun. The boys were having so much fun in the water and we enjoyed conversation with everyone. After the beach we all went back to the Patel’s home for a cook out and swim in the pool.
While driving around in the area, we noticed the beautiful greenery and again many farms, mostly horse farms. This area reminds us of Ocala, Florida, with rolling hills, green pastures and very large horse farms. There were also many very large mansions, even in smaller communities. One town, Freehold Township near where we camped, amazed us with the large communities of huge homes, with rolling green yards. We were also told the Bruce Springsteen lives in this town. There’s definitely some big money here. Jay explained that many of these residents commute to NYC or other nearby large cities. At least the drive was very scenic and we saw many parts of the Jersey countryside.
We truly have enjoyed our time here in N.J. and appreciate the surrounding communities. Our next destination is in Connecticut near the shore and close to Mystic CT. Our next challenge is to drive out and around NYC to try to avoid city traffic, tolls and forbidden bridges for RVs! Wish us luck.
