Bare Hill Unique Area
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Bare Hill Unique Area (Yates # 2) is located about half way between Canandaigua and Naples, near the hamlets of Vine Valley and Middlesex, overlooking Canandaigua Lake from the east side. It has two separate parcels, the southern one covers approximately 298 acres in the town of Middlesex in Yates County and the northern one covers approximately 95 acres in the town of Gorham in Ontario County, for a total of 393 acres.
View from Bare Hill
History
In 1788 a group of investors represented by Oliver Phelps and Nathaniel Gorham made a deal with the Native Americans to pay $5,500 annually forever. However because of financial problems this contract did not hold for long. In 1789 the land was granted by quick-claim deed to Arnold Potter. After this, Potter offered the land to settlers at very low prices. The area was used to graze sheep and grow crops.
The Park and Recreation Land Acquisition Act of 1960 and the Environmental Quality Bond Acts of 1972 and 1986 contained provisions for the acquisition of state forest lands, unique properties and areas which provide open space or special recreational opportunities. These lands would serve multiple purposes involving the conservation and development of natural resources, including the preservation of scenic areas, watershed protection, forestry, and recreation. The first parcel of Bare Hill Unique Area was purchased in 1989, under the 1986 Bond Act because of its scenic beauty and its legendary ties to the Seneca Indian Nation. The northern parcel was purchased in 2007.
State forests now provide opportunities for many informal outdoor recreational activities. They also provide wood for New York's forest products industry, a major part of New York's economy.
Field Notes
Hunting and trapping are also pursued by both local residents and by those from outside the local area.
Every year on Labor Day there is a ceremonial lighting of a bonfire to start the "ring of fire" or "The Festival of Lights" in which landowners around the perimeter of Canandaigua Lake light fires in celebration of peace and bountiful harvests.
The north end of the southern parcel has one parking area on Van Epps Rd. The northern parcel has road frontage on County Route 11/East Lake Rd, but no designated parking areas.
Today, Bare Hill and all state forests in New York are managed for multiple benefits to serve the needs of the people of New York. Sustainable management practices ensure a perpetual supply of timber, a diversity of wildlife habitats, compatible recreational opportunities and clean water.
State Forest Regulations
Anyone enjoying the use of this state forest must observe the following rules which protect them and the forest environment:
1. Do not litter. Carry out what you carry in. Burying of refuse is prohibited.
2. If you build a fire, do so with care and use wood from dead and downed trees only. Never leave a fire unattended. Use fire rings where provided. Extinguish fires completely before you leave. Be careful with fire and cigarettes in the forest
3. All motorized vehicles are restricted to access roads posted as motor vehicle trails. Off road use of motorized vehicles, such as ATVs, trail bikes and four-wheel drives is not allowed, except where specifically permitted by signs, posted notice or by DEC permit. Do not block roadways and trail entrances.
4. Camping for more than three nights or in a group of ten or more requires a permit from a forest ranger. Camping is prohibited within 150 feet of water, roads or trail.
5. No permanent structures should be established, including tree stands or blinds.
6. No hunting for or removal of historical artifacts or remains.
Directions
From Naples, take 245 north to Middlesex. Turn left onto north 364, then left onto County Route 10/North Vine Valley Rd. Right onto Bare Hill Rd. and left onto Van Epps Rd. To reach the northern parcel, continue on County Route 10/North Vine Valley Rd to County Route 39/East Lake Rd. That turns into County Route 11 at the County Line.
From Canandaigua, take 364 south to a right onto County Route 10/North Vine Valley Rd. Right onto Bare Hill Rd and left onto Van Epps Rd. To reach the northern parcel, take 364 south to County Route 11/East Lake Rd.
Comments and Suggestions
State forest lands are owned by all New York State Residents and represent a significant natural heritage for future generations. The Department of Environmental Conservation strives to manage these lands for the best long-term interests. We appreciate your help. If you have suggestions on how we can improve the management of these lands, please let us know. Address your concerns to the Division Lands and Forests, DEC Region 8 Bath Sub-Office.
For further information on management activities:
Contact State Land Management Working Group, DEC Bath Sub-Office 607-776-2165. (M-F; 8:30 am to 4:45 pm)
Important Telephone Numbers
Fire and Law Enforcement : 585-226-6706 or 911
State Forest Office (M - F; 8:30 am to 4:45 pm) 607-776-2165
