Ketchumville State Forest - Tioga Co., NY - Public Access Lands on Waymarking.com

"Ketchumville State Forest encompasses 500 acres of land in the town of Newark Valley in the northeastern portion of Tioga County. Its rustic and primitive feel makes it ideal for recreational activities such as hunting, informal hiking (no trails), snowshoeing, bird watching, and nature viewing. Ketchumville State Forest is undeveloped and has no formally marked trails. Former logging trails, the public forest access road, and old town roads provide informal hiking opportunities. As such, this forest offers unique opportunities to those who wish to explore on their own. At this time, there are no plans being discussed to create additional formal trail networks. No target shooting is allowed on this state forest."
"Ketchumville State Forest was purchased in 1941 by the State of New York from lands formerly owned by the Waite, Zimmer, Chamberlain, Bailey, and Andrews families. This area was not reforested until 1961, when more than 153,000 tree seedlings were planted. The delay in reforesting this property is due to the fact that the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Camps and their programs were terminated as the United States entered World War II. Following the war, tree planting was resumed at a much slower rate."

Estimated size of the public land (in regional measurement standard: hectares, acres, kms, etc.): 500 acres Is there a trail system?: No What points of interest are there?: "Because of the diverse range of habitats available within the forest, there is an abundance of both plant and animal life. Deer, raccoons, rabbits, foxes, salamanders and squirrels are just some of the creatures that can be found by the keen-eyed observer. Birds of all sorts can also be viewed, from the Chestnut-sided Warbler to the Cooper's hawk to the wild Turkey. Many different plant species, both common and rare, can be found mingling with the other flora, including Painted Trillium, Orange Hawkweed (also known as devil's paintbrush), and even Wild Hydrangea. Don't forget, although they are beautiful, the plants located on state property are protected; it is illegal to pick or transport them for any reason." What activities are available?: Primitive Camping Fishing Hiking, Informal (no trails) Hunting, Wildlife Management Unit 7R Nature Photography/Observation Trapping List of known hazards (cliffs, snakes, poison plants, etc.): Hunting is allowed, wear orange in hunting season. Dogs Allowed?: Yes Is a permit/fee required?: No If a permit/fee is required please describe in detail how to get one, how much, etc.: Camping for more than three nights or in a group of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. State Forest Office (M-F 8 am-4 pm): 607-753-3095 ext. 217 Forest Ranger (Law Enforcement/Emergencies): 607-798-1797 DEC Forest Ranger Dispatch: 518-408-5850 Emergencies: 911 Please supply the website of the land if available: [Web Link] If there is a trail system, please describe length, terrain, etc.: Not listed Hours of accessibility?: Not listed

Visit Instructions:
Visitors are encouraged to supply a picture of either themselves or their GPS at the trailhead and/or signage of the public access lands - describe your experience there and what you saw - tell us why other folks should come visit!

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