Entry No. 45 — the Philadelphia file — filed under: abandoned

Staley Mine

Discovered and opened in 1832, the Staley Mine was one of the earliest iron ore sources supplying the historic Oxford Furnace. Though abandoned before 1868, its legacy remains preserved within the forested West Oxford Mountain Natural Resource Area. Today, hikers can spot relics of the mining era, including an old railroad bed, a wooden cistern, a brick structure, and fenced-off mine shafts.

The move: Hike the scenic trails of the West Oxford Mountain Natural Resource Area to search for historic mining ruins, then enjoy a quiet picnic surrounded by the peaceful, reforested landscape.

📍 Before you go The mine is located within the publicly accessible West Oxford Mountain Natural Resource Area, but the actual mine shafts are extremely dangerous and have been fenced off by the county; visitors must remain on the designated hiking trails.

• 📍 Oxford
• 💸 Free
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: 27 Mine Hill Rd, Oxford, NJ 07863, USA

Hours: Added 2026-07-20 — confirm current access before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: njskylands.com · metrotrails.org

last checked: 2026-07-20