Baker School House State Forest

Baker School House State Forest (Cortland #12) encompasses 1,276 acres and is located in the towns of Freetown and Solon in the middle of Cortland County. Its primitive nature makes it ideal for activities such as hiking, hunting, trapping, bird watching, nature observation, and informal camping.

History

Under Article 9, Titles 5 and 7, of the Environmental Conservation Law, authorization has been given to the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to manage lands acquired outside the Adirondack and Catskill Parks. Management, as defined by these laws, includes watershed protection, the production of timber and other forest products, recreation and kindred purposes.

Most of the land that is now called Baker School House State Forest was originally used for agricultural practices in the 1800s. However, the upland soils of the Allegheny Plateau are thin, relatively steep, and acidic. As such, the ground is not fit for intensive farming. When combined with harsh winters and a short growing season, it is easy to understand why farmers abandoned these lands in pursuit of greener pastures in the Midwest. Therefore, the land was sold to the state in the 1930s to undergo reforestation. Today, DEC foresters manage the forest to provide diverse ecological, economic, and recreational services for all New Yorkers and visitors.

Field Notes

With its wide variety of cover types, including northern hardwood, European and Japanese larch, Norway spruce, red pine and white cedar, Baker School House State Forest provides many different habitats for a collection of wildlife. It is a great place to see wild turkey, white-tailed deer and a variety of song birds.

The forest's wild and rustic character provides excellent hunting and trapping opportunities. Camping is also quite enjoyable, as the seclusion of the forest envelops the senses and whisks you away to a time where life was simpler and quieter.

Trails

Baker School House State Forest has a section of the Finger Lakes Trail System running through it. A Public Forest Access Road provides an easy avenue of approach into the northern section of the forest. There are currently no other designated trails within the forest, however, informal hiking, horseback riding and snowshoeing are welcome.

***Stay Safe- Bring A Friend When Out On The Trails***

Directions:

Baker School House State Forest may be accessed by taking NY Route 41 to Baker School House Road which runs diagonally through the forest. Parking is limited, but available from the shoulder of the road.

Tips for Using State Forests

For your safety and protection of the resource, please read and follow Tips for Using State Forests.

Important Numbers:

State Forest Office (M-F 8 am-4 pm): 607-753-3095 ext. 217
Emergencies: 911