Stewartville Backpacking Campsite

Dec 28th, 2023

Peaceful and remote. Pretty much had the place all to myself and enjoyed the easy access to water (be sure to pre-treat it though!) Picnic area: Three picnic tables near the campsites.
Nov 23rd, 2023

Jan 28th, 2020

Love the backtrails at this park.
Jan 14th, 2020

Black Diamond has been in my hiking rotation for years, but I had never backpacked it. Trail karma provided the perfect day: sunny, mildly warm, clear conditions, fresh air. I had seen the forecast, so, not expecting any precipitation, I skipped the tent and decided to cowboy camp. Hiking in on Railroad Bed, Stewartville and Miner's Trails took just under an hour. In camp, several Acorn Woodpeckers kept me company until I bedded down. Usually against my own rules, I brought along some paperwork and actually accomplished some prep for a weekend WFA class I was teaching. It was that peaceful! Overnight, the stars winked at me flirtatiuously while coyotes serenaded. Several nocturnal avians(Poorwill?)called spookily, but overall the night sounds served to lull me into a restful sleep. In the morning I saw a few mountain bikers pass by, and a hiker came into camp for chat. I hung out - and worked a bit - until 11am. To make the hike into a loop I took Stewartville to Corcoran Mine, to Carbondale to Riverview, which took me back to the parking lot while treating me to views through crystal blue skies over the hills and the Delta. Next time I need a quick early spring, late fall or winter overnighter, I'll definitely think of Black Diamond Mines!
Oct 30th, 2022