"The purpose of our lives is to be happy." — Dalai Lama
If you've ever dreamed of camping in the heart of nature, surrounded by rivers, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountains, Massy Riverside Lawn Oasis Bar and Grill in Comfort Castle, Portland, is the place to be. This two-night camping trip was nothing short of magical, blending adventure, delicious meals, and one of my most memorable adventures!
Camping in the mountains has become my ultimate escape, thanks to Jess introducing me to the joys of camp life. When Exploringjamaica shared the serene beauty of Massy Riverside Lawn Oasis Bar and Grill, I was instantly drawn to spending two nights there. Little did I know this trip would be etched in my memory forever.
The scenic drive through Junction Road is always a treat, with lush greenery and winding paths leading us deeper into paradise.
Upon arrival at Comfort Castle, the pristine beauty of the Oasis left us in awe. The well-maintained restrooms, tidy kitchen, and immaculate grounds set the tone for a fantastic experience.
We wasted no time setting up our tents—a skill I’ve become quite proud of!
Playful shenanigans ensued as we created a makeshift water slide, unleashing our inner children.
The view of the river, waterfall, and tall trees made the perfect backdrop for our little campsite.
Our first excursion took us to Cestan Spring Waterfall in the nearby Ginger House community. A kind local offered us a ride in his van, and while we were packed like sardines, it added to the charm of the adventure.
The trail to the waterfall was narrow and rugged, but the journey led to breathtaking views, including a stunning bridge and the mighty Rio Grande.
We hiked along a narrow trail, crossed the Rio Grande, and were greeted by a tranquil waterfall and its inviting mini pool.
At the waterfall, we basked in its beauty, lounging by the mini pool and snapping countless photos. It was hard to leave, but we knew there was more adventure waiting back at the campsite.
The views of the surrounding mountains on our way back were nothing short of spectacular.
This was my first experience camping with these amazing people, and I loved every minute of it.
Camping and cooking cooking by the river is pure magic and this trip is no exception. Back at the campsite, I opted to cook by the river instead of using the kitchen. The menu? Coconut-milk-infused basmati rice and peas, perfectly seasoned with thyme, celtic salt,scallions, and green scotch bonet pepper.
I seasoned tge fish with a medley of bell peppers, carrots, pumpkin.
I also added a few okras which is the heart of this dish.
I steamed all the ingredients together. I topped it with a fragrant curry powder and other spices, cherry tomatoes, white onions and thyme to the pot.
I then added the fish after a few minutes later. The aroma of the fish steaming with seasonings like thyme and okra was heavenly.
The final dish, paired with a medley of sautéed cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, was a feast for both the eyes and tastes buds.
Cooking outdoors with the sound of the river in the background was therapeutic, and the final dishes looked and tasted like works of art.
We ended the night with games and laughter before retreating to our tents, lulled to sleep by the soothing sounds of the river.
The next morning, the river called my name. My day started with a quite moment by the river, watching the clean, rushing water. It was the perfect way to start the day. I couldn't wait to get in.
But I had to prepare a cup of Horlicks tea.
This followed by a relaxing moment by the river in my mini chair.
The cool, clear water was perfect for a refreshing bath.
I went to watched the ladies as they painted the scenery around us, a peaceful moment of creativity. The ladies inspired me to try my hand at it later.
A few minutes later I returned to the river where I decided to take photos and videos.
The view was awesome.
I couldn't get enough of this beautiful environment.
Jason and I visited Best River Waterfall.
This is a spot I’ve come to adore after multiple visits.
The waterfall never fails to amaze me. I spent hours taking photos, dancing in the water.
I soaked up the joy of being in my happy place.
The vibrant, flowing water and the lush surroundings made for stunning photos. Climbing the falls and playing in the water felt like stepping into my happy place.
Climbing the falls and playing in the water felt like stepping into my safe space.
Climbing the falls and soaking in its beauty was pure joy, I was surrounded by nature's magic.
I felt completely at peace. We snacked on fresh coconut, banana, and cane, harvested by a community member. I relaxed while I let the river wash away all our worries.
I returned to my favorite spot to relax in the center of the river.
I drank my coconut that I had forgotten and it was delicious.
Back at the campsite, the rain played peek-a-boo with the sun, but it didn’t dampen our spirits. Instead, we embraced it, playing in the drizzle and laughing like kids.
The unpredictable rain added to the charm of our camping experience.
I even tried painting the breathtaking scenery for the first time.
It was a fun and a fulfilling experience.
Dinner was another highlight, Roast Shrimp and Salmon paired with vibrant vegetables, roasted plantain, and stewed potatoes.
I created a beautiful meal served with purple and white onions, carrot red, green, and yellow bell peppers, tomato, garlic, scotch bonet pepper and thyme.
Dinner was becoming another culinary triumphed. The salmon was seasoned to perfection.
Zoie, brought her cooking skill to Portland. Zoie chopped the garlic as if she was on the television show America’s Next Top Chef.
With everything combined, it was a masterpiece.
The Shrimp was prepared with the same colorful seasons. I felt like a chef in a past life.
The stove was lit and ready for the masterpiece to be placed on it.
My stove was working overtime as the fire was blazing.
The colours, flavours and smoky aroma made it unforgettable.
We also roasted plantains and stewed potatoes.
Zoie was on vegetable duties.
The result was a dish of infused spices and colourful vegetables.
We created a feast that blended flavours and textures perfectly.
Other campers added their creative dishes, like shrimp, sausage, and vegetable skewers.
They created a feast for the senses.
We ended the night with games and stories around a fire, roasting marshmallows.
The fire wasn't what we expected but we made it work.
As our time at Massy Riverside Lawn Oasis came to an end, I woke up early to admire the sunrise. Though the clouds partially hid the sun, the view was stunning, especially with the campsite and surrounding mountains as the backdrop.
I caught a beautiful view of one of the camper's tents.
I took a few more pictures at the waterfall.
I just couldn't get enough of Massey's property.
My red top hence the pictures with it's pop of red.
I got a few awesome photos at this coconut tree with the waterfal in the background.
Even the local chickens came to say goodbye as we took a group photo to wrap up our adventure.
This camping trip was a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and community. If you haven’t been to Massy Riverside Lawn Oasis Bar and Grill, I highly recommend it. From the serene river to the thrilling waterfall excursions and delicious campfire meals, it’s a destination that promises unforgettable memories.
Have you been here? If not, would you go after reading this? Let me know in the comments below! Until next time, see you on the next adventure! 🌿⛺✨
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