Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve - Stewartville Backpack Camp

The Stewartville Backpack Camp at Black Diamond Mines Regional Park offers a furrific place to enjoy nature, view wildlife, and learn a little mining history. There's room for about 20 people at this group site along with pit toilets and non-potable water for horses. You'll have to hike a few miles from a staging area to reach the campground. Due to limited space, you can only stay here for two consecutive nights during spring, summer, and fall. Campers must make reservations at least five days ahead of time. There's a park entrance fee of $5 per night.

There's a parking lot at the Somersville Staging Area about 2.3 miles northwest of the backpack site. From here, you can take the Miners and Stewartville Trails to the group area. Once you set up camp, take advantage of the trails in the area. Hike through the grassland and trees and watch for a variety of wildlife. There are deer, fox, and over 100 bird species here. You'll also want to stay alert for coyotes, mountain lions, and bobcats on your trek. Some spots to visit as you hike include the Powder Magazine, Eureka Slope, and Prospect Tunnel. 

If you're coming here for an overnight, you'll have to leave your furry pal at home. Dogs are only allowed to accompany you during the daytime in the park. You can bring them for a hike or picnic. Keep them on a leash in the picnic section and other developed areas. Collect their waste.

Black Diamond Mines Regional Park is a pawtastic place to explore. When you come here for an overnight trip, you can stay at the Stewartville Backpack Camp. From this location, you'll be able to get out and hike through the preserve. There are over 6,000 acres and 65 miles of trails that span a variety of habitats. The park also offers 90-minute tours of the Hazel-Atlas mine for a small fee.