This is a camping and hiking outing at Germantown MetroPark the weekend of June 25-27. We will camp at Shimps Hollow group campsite and take day hikes in the park. Friday night and all day Saturday and Saturday night.

You can drive to and park fairly close to the camp site. There is plenty of level, grassy areas for tents. The campsite has picnic tables, a trash can and two outhouse style privys. A campfire is permitted in the main fire ring. Firewood is provided.

Campers are welcome to attend beginning at 6:00pm on Friday, June 25. You need to be packed up and out of the campsite at noon on Sunday, June 27.

Hiking: The park has over 16 miles of hiking trails. There will be several hikes throughout the weekend. Most hikes will be self led. But some group hikes will be scheduled. Are you interested in leading a hike? Let Scott know.

Can't be there the whole time? No problem! Come for just the times that work best for you.

Campers should bring their own camping gear including tents, cooking stoves, food, lanterns and lawn chairs. Bring a portable table if you have one. Bring drinking water! There is no water at the campsite. Firewood is provided. Please do not bring firewood to help prevent the spread of the Emerald Ash Borer.

Directions: From the city of Germantown go west on SR-725. Turn right on Boomershine Road. Go 1/4 mile and turn right onto a gravel road marked "Area C". This is the road to Shimps Hollow Group Camp.

Please do not RSVP NO if you are not attending. I do not need to know.

The Rules:

* Primitive tent camping only.
* Do not bring firewood.
* No amplified music.
* No firearms.
* Alcohol is not permitted.
* No pets.
* No children

Germantown MetroPark is the most diverse and significant natural area managed by MetroParks. The size, quality, and age of the woodlands are exceptional. Steep topography and varied moisture gradients make for a variety of forest types and microhabitats. Many species of plants and animals here are found nowhere else in Montgomery County. The park also contains large open grasslands, cedar glades, dry hillside prairies, all stages of natural succession, several ponds, and an exceptionally high quality stream, Twin Creek. The park also benefits from the fact that it still is surrounded largely by agricultural land and the wooded Twin Creek corridor.

Park Map: http://www.metroparks...