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Hudson Valley and the Catskills
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Hudson Valley NY State Parks
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Catskill Forest Preserve
The Catskill Park is a mountainous region of public and private lands in Ulster, Greene, Delaware and Sullivan Counties - the "forest preserve" counties. Ninety-eight peaks over 3,000 feet high form an impressive skyline. Its blend of public and private lands is typical of large parks in Europe, where people and unique lands have coexisted for centuries. The Catskill Forest Preserve is the state land within the Catskill Park. Since its creation in 1885, it has grown from 34,000 to almost 300,000 acres.
A park is a reserve of land preserved on account of its natural beauty, historical interest and/or recreational opportunities, and is protected from most human development and pollution. The title of national park has traditionally been reserved for the most spectacular natural areas with a wide variety of features. Hunting, mining, and other consumptive uses such as grazing are generally prohibited in national parks. National monuments are usually smaller areas established primarily to protect historic, scientific or natural features containing fewer diverse resources or attractions than national parks. State parks are similar to national parks, but are under state rather than federal administration. Many state parks also allow hunting, fishing, and other recreational activities.
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Albany County
Black Creek Marsh State Wildlife Management Area
287 acres, wetland, hiking trails, parking lot, bird watching, snowshoeing, hunting, fishing and trapping. This WMA is located in the Towns of Guilderland and New Scotland. To reach the area from Voorheesville, take NYS Route 156 north, turn right on Kling Terrace, go to the end to reach state land or take NYS Route 156 north 2 ˝ miles, turn right on County Route 202, go 3/10 mile to the state land.
Cole Hill State Forest
Cole Hill State Forest - Truck trail off Route 2. For additional information on the conditions of these areas, contact Mike Mulligan in the DEC Region 4 Schenectady office at (518) 357-2159 or via e-mail at mcmullig@gw.dec.state.ny.us
The Helderberg BCA (Bird Conservation Areas) consists of four parcels of land, totaling approximately 6,716 acres. The BCA includes Partridge Run Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and Partridge Run State Forest, Margaret Burke WMA, and Cole Hill State Forest.
Five Rivers State Environmental Education Center
56 Game Farm Road, Delmar,
NY 12054, Phone: (518)
475-0291. Email: 5rivers@gw.dec.state.ny.us
Five Rivers is a place where conservation began, and
today the
Environmental Education Center proudly carries forward this long legacy
of environmental stewardship. From 1933-36, a resident Civilian
Conservation Corps built brooder houses, dammed streams and fenced
fields to create New York's first and only State Experimental Game
Farm. For 40 years, state biologists conducted a comprehensive and
widely acclaimed study of the ruffed grouse, while raising a variety of
game species for release.
Research biologists at the site's Wildlife Resources Laboratory, established in 1941, field tested new techniques in wildlife management, many of which revolutionized the profession and put New York in the forefront of a growing national conservation movement. The technique of aging deer by dentition, the use of cannon-nets for live-trapping, and the abundance of mallards in the eastern flyway are all directly attributable to this early work on the grounds. Today, the careful visitor can spot many elements which recall the storied Game Farm era.
John Boyd Thacher State Park
John Boyd Thacher State Park, is situated along the Helderberg Escarpment, one of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world. Even as it safeguards six miles of limestone cliff-face, rock-strewn slopes, woodland and open fields, the park provides a marvelous panorama of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and the Adirondack and Green Mountains. The park has an Olympic-sized pool, volleyball courts, playgrounds, ball fields and numerous picnic areas with nine reservable shelters. Interpretive programs are offered year-round, including guided tours of the famous Indian Ladder Trail. There are over twelve additional miles of trails for summer hiking and mountain biking, and winter cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and snowmobiling
Knox State Wildlife Management Area
Margaret Burke. 246 acres, upland, parking lot, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting and trapping. This WMA is located in the Town of Knox. To reach the area from Knox, take NYS Route 156 east 2 miles, turn right on County Route 254, go about ˝ mile to the state land.
Louise E Keir State Wildlife Management Area
119 acres, upland, parking lot, birdwatching, snowshoeing, hunting and trapping. This WMA is located in the Town of Coeymans. To reach the area from Coeymans Hollow, take County Route 103, north 3 miles to state land.
Partridge Run State Wildlife Management Area
4594 acres, upland, hiking trails, parking lot, birdwatching, cross-county skiing, snowshoeing, hunting, fishing and trapping. This WMA is located in the Town of Berne. To reach the area from Rensselaerville, take NYS Route 85 north one mile, turn left on County Route 6, go 3 miles to state land.
Peebles Island State Park
Peebles
Island State Park is at the confluence of the Hudson and
Mohawk Rivers. It offers spectacular river and rapids views for walkers
and joggers who take advantage of the miles of paths through the gently
rolling and wooded landscape. Picnickers and fishermen come to relax
and winter visitors use the facilities to cross-country ski, hike and
snowshoe.
Peebles Island is also the headquarters of the Bureau of Historic Sites and Bureau of Historic Preservation Field Services. The staff provide technical services, such as record maintenance, analysis of artifacts, and preparation of publications, exhibits and audio visual programs for the 35 historic sites maintained by State Parks. The Field Services Bureau assists all New York's municipalities and citizens with National Register of Historic Place listings, investment tax credit and review of all state and federal projects.
Pine Bush State Unique Area
Picture a wide open landscape filled with dense shrubs, scattered pitch pines, openings of prairie grass and wildflowers all rooted in sweeping sand dunes. This is the Albany Pine Bush. The Albany Pine Bush is known as an inland pine barrens ecosystem. One of the largest of only about 20 other inland pine barrens worldwide, the Albany Pine Bush is globally rare. It was formed toward the end of the last Ice Age 12,000 - 15,000 years ago. At this time a large glacial lake stretched from present day Glens Falls, NY to Newburgh, NY. Over time, the water drained leaving behind the sandy deposits of the lake floor. These sandy soils now support the Albany Pine Bush ecosystem. Less than 20% of the original Albany Pine Bush ecosystem still survives today. This remaining area is divided by interstate highways, shopping malls, and industrial parks, and is threatened by further habitat loss.
Rensselaerville State Forest
Also known as the Cheese Hill area, this location near the Village of Rensselaerville is outstanding for its extensive pine forest glades that are sufficiently open so that one can ski through them with no need for a trail. These glades generally parallel the Department truck trail that traverses the area. There are about 4 miles of Nordic skiing opportunities in this area.
Schodack Island State Park
Schodack Island State Park sits off the eastern shore of the Hudson River just south of Albany. Approximately seven miles of Hudson River and Schodack Creek shoreline bound the 1,052-acre site. A day-use facility, the park has been designated a State Estuary, and a portion of the park shelters a Bird Conservation Area (BCA) that is home to bald eagles, cerulean warblers and blue herons that nest in the cottonwood trees. Eight miles of multi-use trails wind through a variety of ecological communities. In addition, the park has an improved bike trail, volleyball nets, horseshoe and a kayak/canoe launch site. Interpretive signage highlights the park's historic and environmental significance.
Scott Patent State Forest
No info available, Scott State Forest is in Albany County, NY
Thompsons Lake State Park
Thompson's
Lake State Park, nestled in the mountains just four miles
from the Helderberg Escarpment, is a popular camping ground and
recreation area. In addition to 140 wooded campsites, the park
comprises a sandy beach, mixed hardwood and conifer forests, limestone
outcroppings and open fields. Recreational opportunities include a
volleyball court, horseshoe pits, a playing field, swingsets, carry-in
boat access, rental row boats, fishing areas, and nature trails.
Interpretive and recreational programs are offered for campers
throughout the summer. During the winter, visitors can cross-country
ski and ice fish.
The Emma Treadwell Thacher Center is located on Thompson's Lake next to the campground and is accessible to campers. The center opened in July 2001 and offers exhibits, interactive displays, trails for hiking and skiing, and educational programs. See the nature center page for more information.
Columbia County
Beebe Hill State Forest
Beebe Hill State Forest, County Route 5, Austerlitz, (State Forest Ranger C. Dicintio 518-828-0236) Located near Austerlitz, Beebe Hill rises only 300 feet above the surrounding area. If you climb its fire tower though, you will be rewarded with great views
Harvey Mountain State Forest
This northern hardwood forest is a continuation of the habitat found in western Massachusetts and Vermont. Nearly 1600 acres of hemlock and birch host Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, Hermit Thrushes, Red-breasted Nuthatches and Blue-headed Vireos. This is a good place to search for irruptive northern species such as Pine Siskin, Common Redpoll, and Crossbills, which may be found feeding on hemlock and spruce cones. "Harvey Mountain is a magnificent site for hiking and other outdoor activities, and offers striking views of surrounding mountain ranges," Governor Pataki said. "By preserving these forested lands, we will significantly increase public access to this popular outdoor area and enlarge Harvey Mountain State Forest by 27 percent." Harvey Mountain Trail
Hudson River Islands State Park
Hudson River Islands State Park facilities are concentrated on the islands of Gay's Point and Stockport Middle Ground. These islands are fragile communities with many rare and endangered plant and animal species. Day-use facilities include picnic areas with grills and nature trail. Fishing is popular and transient camping is allowed. On the Hudson River, ACCESS BY BOAT ONLY. One mile south of Coxsackie Boat Launch Site. Four miles north of Athens Boat Launch Site.
Lake Taghkanic State Park
Lake
Taghkanic State Park, nestled next to Lake Taghkanic in the
rolling hills and lush forests of Columbia County, offers a wonderful
variety of recreational activities. The park has tent and trailer
campsites and cabin and cottage camping facilities, two beaches, picnic
grounds and a boat launch. In addition, the park has hiking, biking,
cross-country ski and snowmobile trails. Ice skating and ice fishing
are permitted when conditions are appropriate.
There are three Vaction Rental Cottages that have the amenities of home. The units are outfitted with a bathroom with toilet and shower, a kitchen with hot and cold running water, refrigerator, stove, microwave, cooking and eating utensils, enclosed/screened-in back porch facing the water, a picnic table and fire ring. Named in 2005 as one of the Top 100 Campgrounds in the nation.
New Forge State Forest
New Forge Rd #2, off Rt 82, Taghkanic, (State Forest Ranger C. Dicintio 518-828-0236)
Nutten Hook State Unique Area
Primarily rural and residential, Stuyvesant is developing a nature preserve and Hudson River access point at Nutten Hook, in conjunction with which the town is renovating its railroad depot.
Rogers Island Wildlife Management Area
Area 281 acres, upland, wetland, boat access, birdwatching, snowshoeing, hunting, fishing and trapping. This WMA is located in the Town of Greenport. To reach the area from the east side of the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, take NYS Route 23 east ˝ mile, turn left on Hallenbeck Road, go 3/4 mile to state land.
Stockport Creek State Wetland Preservation Area
(includes Stockport Creek Marshes, Gays Point Marsh, Stuyvesant Marshes, and Nutten Hook) is a 648-hectare (1,600-acre) tidal freshwater wetland and tributary habitat complex that extends along the eastern shore of the Hudson for about 11.2 kilometers (7 miles), between the hamlet of Newton Hook (Germantown) and the city of Hudson at river kilometer 195 (river mile 121). Stockport Creek is a major tributary of the Hudson River, formed by the confluence of Kinderhook Creek and Claverack Creek, which together drain a watershed of about 1,295 square kilometers (500 square miles) and provide 4.8 kilometers (3 miles) of accessible habitat to the first barriers on the second order creeks. This is the second-largest unobstructed freshwater tidal stream in the Hudson Estuary drainage.
Taconic State Park
Taconic State Park is located along 11 miles of the Taconic Mountain Range, sharing a border with Massachusetts and Connecticut. Two developed areas, Copake Falls and Rudd Pond, offer an extensive trail system with terrain that varies from easy to challenging, offering spectacular views.
Delaware County
Artic China State Forest
2858 arces: AKA Oquaga Creek State Park, is between Arctic and China, NY. See Oquaga Creek State Park below. Just north of Deposit, NY
Barbour Brook State Forest
786 acres. Just east of China, NY east of Rt8. To call this a "State Forest" is pushing the limits of the definition. See map above.
Beals Pond State Forest
617 acres. Near Masonville, NY
Bear Spring Mountain State Wildlife Management Area
7,186 acres, upland, hiking trails, handicapped access, boat access, parking lot, picnic area, rest rooms, birdwatching, camping, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting, fishing and trapping. This WMA is located in the Towns of Colchester and Walton. To reach the area from Walton, take NYS Route 206 south 3 miles to state land.
Bearpen Mountain State Forest
Poor Dry Brook Ridge. It is the 37th tallest mountain in the Catskills, but it might as well be mud. The highest point on the ridge (found at 3,460 feet several miles southeast of the Village of Margaretville) gets such little notice it is referred to—only in passing— as a "small summit" in a description found in the Adirondack Mountain Club's Guide to Catskill Trails
Cherry Ridge Wild Forest
Trout Pond, Cherry Ridge Wild Forest, Colchester. From Route 17 to Exit 93, turn left, then right on Russell Brook Road for 3.5 miles (3 miles unpaved) to a parking lot on the left side of the road (0.5 miles south of the junction with Morton Hill Road).
French Woods State Forest Preserve
Location: in the Town of Hancock, Delaware
County, NY
Size of Area: __ acres
Geography and Use: Day hiking, wildlife viewing and camping.
General Site Information: NYSDEC, Region 4, (518)357-2234
John Lennox State Demonstration Forest
186 Acres. The Watershed Forestry Program coordinates two model forests - the Lennox Memorial Forest in Delhi, Delaware County, and the Frost Valley Model Forest at Frost Valley YMCA in Claryville, Ulster County. The model forests integrate water quality research, and demonstration sites for various silvicultural practices. Visitors and groups travel a two-mile road marked with interpretive signs explaining Best Management Practices for logging and management techniques designed to achieve specific forestry, habitat and water quality objectives. Lennox contact: John Hannum, 607-865-6531; jth44@cornell.edu Frost Valley contact: Jennifer Standish, 845-586-2291; jstandish@frostvalley.org
Lennox Model Forest, Delhi, NY
The key participants in the development of the Lennox Model Forest, which climbs the hillside across Back River Road from 4-H Camp Shankitunk near the Delhi-Hamden town line, were treated to a tour of the forest last Thursday. The Lennox Forest is one of four model forests in the New York City Watershed, which will be used to research, monitor and demonstrate the effects of certain forestry practices, both good and bad.
Little Pond State Campground
549 Little Pond State Campground Road, Andes, NY 13731
Campground Phone: (845)439-5480
Little Pond is a quiet picturesque campground located in the Catskill Forest Preserve which offers a leisurely hiking trail around a 13-acre pond, and the opportunity to venture along trails leading to the ruins of an old farm or enjoy breathtaking views atop the Touchmenot Mountains. The campgrounds, beach, boat rental, and Junior Naturalist Program offers fun for all ages; and for the primitive camper, we offer remote sites on the back side of the pond. Little Pond is located minutes from Beaverkill, a world renowned fly fishing stream.
Michigan Hill State Forest
Located off Route 38 in the town of Richford, NY. Over 100 acres of of wooded land. 608 acres
Middle Mountain Wild Forest
10668 acres
Murphy Hill State Forest
597 acres
Oquaga Creek State Park
Oquaga Creek State Park is just 3 hours from New York City and New Jersey, which makes its beach facilities and forested campsites the perfect summer escape. The 55-acre Arctic Lake has a sand beach for swimmers, and anglers can fish for black bass, bullheads and rainbow trout. The rolling, wooded hills are ideal for winter sledding. Winter visitors can also ice skate or ice fish on the frozen lake and snowshoers and cross-country skiers can explore six miles of trails. If you like to camp, 95 sites are available. If you don't want to bother to pack a tent and equipment, you maybe interested in the Full Service Accommodation. This cottage provides 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, cooking utensils dishes and silverware and more.
Plattekill State Forest
1747 acres
Relay State Forest
1278 acres
South Hill State Forest
Steam Mill State Forest
5162 acres
Tomannex State Forest
104 acres
Wolf Hollow State Wildlife Management Area
68 acres
Dutchess County
Clermont State Historic Park
Germantown, Columbia County and Red Hook, Dutchess County, NY Taconic Parkway north to the exit for Route 56 west. Turn right on Route 9 north and then left onto Route 78 west. Right turn onto Route 9G north. Left turn onto Route 6 west going into Clermont State Park. The grounds are open all year.
Depot Hill State Forest
This 260 acre multiple use area (MUA) is distinctive for hosting part of the Appalachian Trail. Located in the towns of Beekman and Pawling, there are several parking lots along the town road with unofficial trails for hiking and wildlife enjoyment. Possible recreational pursuits for this area include, hunting, hiking, wildlife and bird observation, and camping.
James Baird State Park
122D Freedom Road Pleasant Valley, NY 12569 Phone: (845) 452-1489 Directions: Directly on the Taconic State Parkway, one mile north of the Route 55/Poughkeepsie exit, in central Dutchess County, midway between Albany and New York City.
Lafayetteville State Forest
Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park
(Mills-Norrie State Park) Old Post Road P.O. Box 893 Staatsburg, NY 12580 Phone: (845) 889-4646 Directions: I-90 to Kingston exit. Route 199 east to Route 9G south. Route 9 south through Rhinebeck through Staatsburg. Five miles north of Hyde Park.
Ogden Mills & Ruth Livingston Mills State Park
Old Post Road P.O. Box 893 Staatsburg, NY 12580 Phone: (845) 889-4646 Directions: I-90 to Kingston exit. Route 199 east to Route 9G south. Route 9 south through Rhinebeck through Staatsburg. Five miles north of Hyde Park.
Roeliff Jansen Kill State Forest
Taconic Parkway Pine Plains, NY 12567 Camping, fishing, hunting and hiking. Trails: There are no trails in the true sense of the word. Instead there is a lot of bushwhacking.
Thompson Pond & Stissing Mountain
Lake Rd. Pine Plains, NY 845-244-327 1. 507-acre area owned by the Nature Conservancy. Extends from pond at base of Stissing Mountain to fire tower on top. Trails. Dawn to dusk.
Stony Kill State Environmental Education Center
9 Farmstead Lane Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 (845)831-8780 Stony Kill Farm is an education center dedicated to enhancing environmental awareness and appreciation of the natural world. This 576 acre facility includes rolling country side, farmland, ponds, woodlands, meadows, cultivated fields, and fallow fields. Located in Dutchess County in southeastern New York State, it offers a special setting where visitors discover the delicate interweaving of all living things. The Verplanck Manor House visitor center houses a library where you can simply come and identify a bird or animal or do research on various topics.
- Pleasant Valley, NY. The Taconic–Hereford Multiple Use Area, one of the largest MUAs in Dutchess County, has been set aside for its great upland game hunting and other outdoor activities. It’s a 909-acre oasis for mountain bikers and generally is not known as a mainstream mountain bike area.
Taconic Hereford State Forest
Taconic State Park - Rudd Pond Area
RR 2 Box 99 Millerton, NY 12546 (518) 789-3059 Directions: Off Route 22, east of Dutchess County on Route 62, 2 miles north of Millerton.
Tivoli Bay State Unique Area
1,722 acres, upland, wetland, hiking trails, handicapped access, boat access, parking lot, scenic vistas, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting, fishing and trapping. Located in the Hudson River Estuary, this WMA is in northern Dutchess County just south of the Village of Tivoli. Take NYS Route 9G to parking areas and information kiosks.
Wassaic State Forest
Rt. 22 Dover Plains, 12522 Camping, cross-country skiing, fishing, hunting, hiking and horseback riding.
West Mountain State Forest
West Mountain State Forest was acquired in 1999 as a gift to the State of New York. Consisting of 830 acres in the towns of Beekman and Dover, this area has rolling topography, wetlands and streams. Although no formal trails have been marked out, there are many informal trails, a good topographic map or GPS unit would be helpful. The pond near the center of the state forest is currently only foot traffic accessible, the road to it is privately owned and there is no public access. Parking areas can be found at the very end of Garner Hollow Road, past the facility identification sign, and at the end of the cul-de-sac on Blueberry Drive, walk to the right and find the old farm lane, follow it in to the state forest.
Greene County
Ashland Pinnacle State Park
Pinnacle State Park and Golf Course is located in Steuben County, New York in the USA. The park is southwest of Corning, New York in the Town of Addison, east of Village of Addison.
Pinnacle State Park has breathtaking views and tremendous vistas, including the Canisteo River Valley, Harris Hill and the village of Addison. The park is known for its challenging 9-hole golf course, but visitors can enjoy many other recreational activities, including hiking or cross-country skiing on 11 miles of trails. Anglers can fish for bass, bluegill or bullheads in Levi Pond. Hunters can go after deer, turkey or small game in season and picnickers can relax and enjoy the scenery.
Blackhead Range Wild Forest
Colgate Lake Wild Forest
Devils Tombstone State Campground
Great Vly State Wetland Preservation Area
Halcott Mountain Wild Forest
Hunter Mountain Wild Forest
Hunter Mountain Wild Forest encompasses almost 11,000 acres in the northeast portion of the Catskill Park. The forest is located in Greene County in the towns of Hunter, Jewett, and Lexington. Hunter Mountain Wild Forest is mountainous. There are six main peaks located within the forest; Hunter Mountain (4,040'), Southwest Hunter (3,740'), Rusk Mountain (3,680'), Evergreen Mountain 3,360'), Pine Island Mountain (3,140'), and Packsaddle Mountain (3,100'). The area is rugged and there is limited access to the Forest. There are several year round and seasonal streams which either flow to the Schoharie in the north or to the Westkill in the south. The area can be accessed from NYS Route 214 and Greene County Route 6 (Spruceton Road). Watch for trailheads and forest preserve access parking areas along these routes.
Huntersfield State Forest
Indian Head Wilderness
Kaaterskill Wild Forest
Mount Pisgah State Forest
North South Lake State Campground
Phoenicia Wild Forest
Shandaken Wild Forest
Vinegar Hill State Wildlife Management Area
West Kill Mountain Wilderness
Windham High Peak Wild Forest
Orange County
Bashakill State Wildlife Management Area
2,213 acres, upland, wetland, hiking trails, handicapped access, boat access, parking lot, viewing tower, scenic vistas, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting, fishing and trapping. This WMA is located 65 miles northeast of New York City, south of NYS Route 17 and east of NYS Route 209 with major access points from Haven and South Roads.
Bear Mountain State Park
Palisades Interstate Park Commission Bear Mountain, NY 10911 Phone: (845) 786-2701 Directions: 45 miles north of New York City. Accessible from the Palisades Interstate Parkway or I-87
Cherry Island State Wildlife Management Area
Goose Pond Mountain State Park
Palisades Interstate Park Commission Bear Mountain, NY 10911 Phone: (845) 786-2701 Directions: Route 17M, between Chester and Monroe.
Harriman State Park
Palisades Interstate Park Commission Bear Mountain, NY 10911 Phone: (845) 786-2701 Directions: Off the Palisades Parkway, 30 miles north of New York City.
Hawk Watch Trailway
Highland Lakes State Park
Knox Headquarters State Historic Site
Kowawese State Unique Area
New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site
Sterling Forest® State Park
115 Old Forge Rd. Tuxedo, NY 10987 Phone: (845) 351-5907 Directions: Vistiors Center: From junction of Rtes. 17 & 17A, take 17A west 1.4 miles to left on Long Meadow Rd (Rte. 84). Go 3.5 miles to right on Old Forge Rd. Center is one mile on your left.
Stewart State Forest
Ridge Road, New Windsor, NY A wildlife management area of 5,264 acres with semi-paved lanes for walking, running, mountain biking, horseback riding, and bird watching. Hunting permitted. Directions: From Rt. 17K west heading to the town of Montgomery shortly past the historical marker for the Site of Cobden Mansion (just before Stone Castle Road on the right) turn left onto Ridge Road and head over US 84 on a bridge; park in the parking area on the left.
Stewart Park and Reserve Coalition (SPARC), June 20, 2009, 9am check in starts, Weed Road entrance, off Rte 207 in Rock Tavern. Directions: I-84 to exit 5A. Follow Rte 747 South to 207 West; Weed Rd entrance is ahead two miles on the right. Stewart State Forest is an amazing Hudson Valley resource in Orange County, New York, just 65 miles from New York City, and easily accessible from I-84 and I-87 (NY Thruway).
Storm King State Park
However there are special conditions that will remain in place indefinitely. All of the trails, and 25 feet either side, have been swept for unexploded ordnance (UXO) and any found have been removed. It is believed that only hot fires will cause the remaining ordnance to explode so it should be safe to hike in the area if appropriate precautions are taken. Former artillary range. If you should find any UXOs, DO NOT TOUCH. Please report them to: 845-786-2781.
Washingtons Headquarters State Historic Site
The Hasbrouck property was the first publicly operated historic site in the United States. In 1850, the state of New York purchased the property to commemorate April 1782 through August 1783 when General George Washington used this site as his Continental Army headquarters. Washington's Headquarters is located on the western side of the Hudson River in Newburgh. The site is located at Liberty and Washington Streets.
Putnam County
Big Buck Mountain Multiple Usa Area
Near Kent - Big Buck Mountain Multiple Use Area. Big Buck MUA - On Ressique Street just north of Farmer's Mills Road (map)
Bog Brook State Unique Area
132 acres, upland, wetland, hiking trails, parking lot, viewing tower, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting, fishing and trapping. This WMA is located in southeastern New York State approximately 60 miles north of New York City, west of NYS Route 22 and north of Foggintown Road.
California Hill State Forest
Castle Rock State Unique Area
Clarence Fahnestock State Park
Route 301 Park Office 1/2 mile west on the Taconic Parkway Kent, NY 10512 845.225.7207 The largest park in Putnam County, Fahnestock Park is 10,000 acres of relaxing activities and natural wonder. Anglers can fish for bass, perch, sunfish, pickerel and trout in three ponds and two lakes. State fishing licenses are required. Boats are allowed with a park permit or may be rented at Canopus Lake.
Cranberry Mountain State Wildlife Management Area
467 acres, upland, hiking trails, parking lot, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting, fishing and trapping. This WMA is located in the Town of Patterson east of Route 22 approximately 63 miles north of New York City. A parking area allowing access is located on the west side of Stage Coach Road.
Donald J. Trump State Park
Donald Trump bought land in Putnam Valley and later donated it to the State; in 2006 it was renamed Donald J. Trump State Park.
Hudson Highlands State Park
Route 9D Beacon, NY, 10512 845-225-7207 This undeveloped park is located along the Hudson River approximately 2 miles south of Beacon along SR 9D. The park's offerings are limited to hiking, fishing and horseback riding. A large field is used by those who enjoy flying kites or flying model airplanes. No other amenities are offered. July 3, 2002 - Governor George E. Pataki today announced the acquisition of more than 240 acres in Westchester and Putnam to expand Hudson Highlands State Park and increase public access to the Hudson River. The project includes the purchase of 91 acres and the transfer of 150 acres of Camp Smith, a military training facility, from the State Division of Military and Naval Affairs (DMNA) to the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP).
Nimham Mountain State Forest
Near the town of Kent, Mount Nimham's 1023 acre State Forest is an outdoor recreation mecca for Putnam County and attracts visitors from as far away as NYC and Long Island. The miles of trails; easy accessibility and the 75-mile view from the fire tower make it a popular destination. Once called “Big Hill” and then “Smalley Mountain” it is now named for the last Sachem of the Wappinger and American Revolutionary War fighter Daniel Nimham.
Pudding Street State Forest
White Pond State Forest
Rensselaer County
Bennington Battlefield State Historic Site
Berlin State Forest
Capital District State Wildlife Management Area
Cherry Plain State Park 26 State Park
Road Grafton, 12082 518-733-5400 Cherry Plain State Park has a sandy beach on Black River Pond, with bathhouse and comfort station nearby. Picnic grounds and a boat launch are adjacent to the beach. The park also offers bridle paths and hiking, biking and nature trails that serve for cross-country skiing in winter. Anglers fish for bass, bullheads and pickerel and may also ice fish in winter.
Castleton Island State Park
Route 9J, Castleton, NY 12033 The 1,358-acre park has more than seven miles of shoreline within its boundaries, all of which can soon be enjoyed for hiking, fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.
Clermont State Historic Park
Grafton Lakes State Park
Lock 4 State Canal Park
Petersburg Pass State Forest
Pittstown State Forest
Tibbetts State Forest
Rockland County
Blauvelt State Park
Palisades Interstate Park Commission Bear Mountain, NY 10911 Phone: (845) 359-0544 Directions: Route 303, north to Nyack on East Greenbush Road.
Haverstraw Beach State Park
21 Gagan Road Haverstraw, NY 845-364-2670 Facilities - Park Office, restrooms, vending area, Open Air Pavilion, covered and un-covered picnic tables, benches, paved walking trails, 3 fishing piers in fresh water pond, pedestrian footbridge located between man made inlet, Double-wide trailered boat launch, large playground for tots and older children & Rockland's September 11th Memorial and Patriot Garden. Handicapped Facilities - all facilities are completely handicapped accessible Hours of operation - 1/2 before sunrise - 1/2 hour after sunset
High Tor State Park
South Mountain Rd. New City, NY 10956 845-634-8074 Hiking, picnicking, swimming pool. Open dawn to dusk
Hook Mountain State Park
Upper Nyack, NY 10960 845-268-3020 676 undeveloped acres, hiking, biking, picnicking. Located behind Rockland Lake State Park in Valley Cottage and can be accessed from the end of N. Broadway in Upper Nyack. Open dawn to dusk
Minisceongo State Tidal Wetlands
Nyack Beach State Park
End of N. Broadway Upper Nyack, NY 10960 845-268-3020 61 acres, accessible from Upper Broadway, Upper Nyack. Fishing, cross country ski trails, ballfields,hiking trail two miles along river from north end of parking lot to Hook Mt. Open dawn to dusk
Palisades State Park
Piermont Marsh State Tidal Wetlands
Rockland Lake State Park
Rockwood Hall State Park
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
Park Rd. off 9W, Stony Point, NY 10980 845-786-2521 Scene of Brig. General "Mad Anthony" Wayne's surprise capture of the British held fort. Museum displays relics of the battle, and markers on site indicate location of decisive actions of the battle which became important American victory. Also picnicking, hiking, park scenic walks. Exhibits relating to the Battle of Stony Point, 1779. Weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sun 1 p.m. to 5 p.m
Tallman Mountain State Park
Palisades Interstate Park Commission Bear Mountain, NY 10911 Phone: (845) 359-0544 Directions: Route 9W, 18 miles north of New York City. Hiking, biking, track fields, tennis, picnicking, swimming pool. Open 8 a.m. to dusk
- Moreau Lake State Park
- Gansevoort, NY 12831
(518) 793-0511
Reservations:(800)456-2267 - Gansevoort is in Saratoga County, in the Albany metro area.
Moreau Lake State Park's lake lies amid hardwood forests, pine stands and rocky ridges. Shady groves of trees shelter picnic grounds and a pavilion overlooking the lake. Wooded campgrounds are quiet and secluded, offering facilities for group campers, as well as tent and trailer sites. The sandy beach, nature, hiking and cross-country ski trails, opportunities for boating, fishing and ice fishing, and proximity to the Saratoga Spring and Lake George areas make the park attractive to visitors. A wooden pavilion with a 120-person capacity and three canvas tents, which can accommodate from 35-50 people may be reserved on a daily basis. In the Summer, beach lounges, beach umbrella and fishing gear can be rented. In the Winter, snowshoes are available for rent daily.
Schenectady County
Featherstonhaugh State Forest
Lock 9 State Canal Park
Schohari County
Armlin Hill State Forest
Blenheim Hill State Forest
Burnt-Rossman Hills State Forest
Clapper Hollow State Forest
Cotton Hill State Forest
Dutch Settlement State Forest
Dutton Ridge State Forest
Franklinton Vlaie State Wildlife Management Area
185 acres, upland, wetland, parking lot, birdwatching, snowshoeing, hunting fishing and trapping. This WMA is located in the Town of Broome. To reach the area from Middleburg, take NYS Route 145 south about 3 ˝ miles to state land.
Franklinton Vly State Forest
High Knob State Forest
High State Three State Forest
Honey Hill State Forest
Keyserville State Forest
Leonard Hill State Forest
Lutheranville State Forest
Mallet Pond State Forest
Manorkill State Forest
Max V Shaul State Park
Max V. Shaul State Park is a small, quiet camping area with 30 wooded tent and trailer sites. The park has shady picnic grounds, as well as playing fields and a playground. There is a nature and hiking trail, fishing is allowed in Panther Creek and winter visitors can cross-country ski. The park's proximity to Mine Kill State Park opens many more recreational opportunities to campers.
Mine Kill State Park
Mine Kill State Park overlooks the NY Power Authority's Blenheim-Gilboa Pumped Storage Project's lower reservoir and surrounding hills. The lower reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, bass, walleye, carp and pan fish, and is ideal for boating, water-skiing and fishing. Swimming is not allowed in the reservoir, but the park has an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a wading pool and a diving pool. In winter, visitors enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.
Photo by Bryan Merdler
Oil City State Forest
Patria State Forest
Petersburg Pass State Forest
Rensselaerville State Forest
Scott Patent State Forest
Sullivan County
Beaverkill State Campground
Buckhorn Natural Area
A high mountain swamp surrounded by mixed oaks is located within the 535-acre Buckhorn Natural Area. Reptiles and amphibians are protected by special regulations within the Buckhorn Natural Area. There is a Pennsylvania State Forest primitive camping area for river users only within the Buckhorn Natural Area of Delaware State Forest near Pond Eddy, NY. There are no facilities at this location and you must get there by water. Free permits are available by calling the National Park Service Barryville Office at (845) 557-0222.
Hickok Brook State Forest
Hickok Brook Multiple Use Area
Location: Sullivan County, NY, 1.5 mi. Southeast of Eldred,
(845) 255-5453
Size of Area: 1,064 acres
Geography and Use: Recreational activities are abundant here: hiking,
cross-country skiing, snow-shoeing, hunting, camping and mountain
biking.
Lake Superior State Park
Mongaup Pond State Campground
Mongaup Valley State Wildlife Management Area
11,967 acres, upland, wetland, hiking trails, handicapped access, boat access, parking lot, scenic vistas, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting, fishing and trapping. From Monticello, go south on Route 42 approximately 7 miles to the blinking yellow light in Forestburg. Go west (right) on County Route 43 about 2 ˝ miles, or follow Route 97 north from Sparrowbush approximately 3 miles to the confluence of the Mongaup and Delaware Rivers.
Middle Mountain Wild Forest
Neversink River State Unique Area
Painter Hill State Forest
Sundown Wild Forest
Willowemoc Wild Forest
Wolf Brook State Forest
Wurtsboro Ridge State Forest
Ulster County
Balsam Mountain Wild Forest
Belleayre Mountain Ski Center
Big Indian Wilderness
Bluestone Wild Forest
Bristol Beach State Park
Dry Brook Ridge Wild Forest
Great Vly Wildlife Management Area
Hemlock Ridge State Forest
Highwoods State Forest
Indian Head Wilderness
Kenneth Wilson State Campground
859 Wittenberg Road, Mt. Tremper, NY
12457
Campground Phone: (845)679-7020
Completely
surrounded by beautiful mountains with panoramic views creating a
picturesque setting, Kenneth L. Wilson Campground is located in north
central Ulster County, 5 miles northwest of the village of Woodstock.
The campsites are secluded, large, and wooded.
Minnewaska State Park
P.O. Box 893 New Paltz, NY 12561 Phone: (845) 256-0579 Directions: I-87 exit 18, to Routes 44/55 west
Oak Ridge State Forest
Overlook Mountain Wild Forest
Notice the Kingston / Rhinecliff Bridge
crossing the Hudson in the center of the picture (Very
larger image)
© Photo by David Szyszka. Aug 4, 2008
Phoenicia Wild Forest
Shandaken Wild Forest
Shawangunk Ridge State Forest
Shawangunk State Forest
Slide Mountain Wilderness
Sundown Wild Forest
Turkey Point State Forest
West Kill Mountain Wilderness
Willowemoc Wild Forest
Woodland Valley State Campground
Westchester County
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park
2957 Crompond Road Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 Phone: (914) 245-4434 Directions: Taconic Parkway to Route 202, north of White Plains.
Rockefeller State Park
Box 338 Tarrytown, NY 10591 Phone: (914) 631-1470 Directions: Route 9 to Route 117 east. The park is 1 mile east on Route 117. Taconic Parkway north to Pleasantville 117 exit, Left off Ramp, 3 Lights, Park Entrance will be on the left.
Croton Gorge State Unique Area
John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
Titus Mill Pond State Tidal Wetland
Bureau of Land Management http://www.blm.gov
Bureau of Reclamation http://www.usbr.gov
Fish & Wildlife Service http://www.fws.gov
USDA Forest Service http://www.fs.fed.us
National Park Service http://www.nps.gov
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