Blue Bell Island: The island stands like a sentinel watching over this little cove above the marshes. Once upon a time it was probably not as well defined. It is likely that the area around it was leveled creating the hump that is evident now. The name comes from the Cheesequake State Park historian. It likely refers to the bluebell flowers that used to pop up every spring. This is one of the reasons the cache was published in the spring time! The real draw however is wildlife viewing. When I first discovered the spot I spent a few hours looking out over the marshes. I watched the Ospreys circle and then dive. One came back up with a fish which she took back to her nest to share with her mate. I watched a herd of deer splash through the stump creek, startled into motion by an unknown force. I watched the egrets & great blue herons stalking fish and the studied the curious fiddler crabs as they basked in the sun. I've spied snakes, squirrels & a multitude of birds, ducks & geese. Tracks in the mud indicate there are also raccoons, muskrats & opossum about. I even noticed a dead rat that had washed up from goodness knows where. Spend some time on the island and you'll grow to appreciate its natural surroundings. Take a walk around it and you'll grow to love the whole estuary.
The Hide: You are searching for a regular size ammo can hidden in a regular way. The best way to approach GZ is from the East. You will have to cross Stump Creek but it is doable at low tide with nothing more than muddy boot bottoms. I recommend boots over boats as the creek isn't really very deep. At high tide however you will need a set of waders or the freedom to play in some briny water. Don't worry - you'll dry! Parking is available on the Campground side of the peninsula when the gate is open. It is open and closed seasonally but varies with the weather. You can always park at one of the other marked lots and walk in. Here's a map you can use for reference. Cheesequake State Park is typically open dawn to an hour before dusk. I'm so certain that most cachers aren't going to read a word of this that I'll make this promise: Put a Watch on this cache and you'll soon get to enjoy the tales of bushwhacking, creek swimming & marsh-grass hopping! TFTL!
This cache is certified Central Jersey!
Blue Bell Herself |
Wild Salt Hay |
Estuary Wildlife |
The View from BBI |