Beaver Dams State Forest

• Open for recreation: Year-round

• Fee: Free
• Contact information:
  • DEC Region 8 Bath Office (M-F, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM), (607) 622-8282; [email protected]
  • Search, rescue, wildfire, and enforcement matters: 911- or - 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264) 
    A local Forest Ranger is a valuable source of information for the state land you would like to visit.
• Location: Town of Hornby, Steuben County and Town of Orange, Schuyler County
• Wildlife Management Unit: 8W
• Map: Beaver Dams State Forest Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator

On the 534-acre Beaver Dams State Forest recreational opportunities focus on rustic experiences as most of this forest is remote and difficult to access. Today, Beaver Dams 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 will ensure a perpetual supply of timber, a diversity of wildlife habitats, recreational opportunities, and clean water.

Accessible Features

General information on accessible recreation includes links to other locations with accessible recreation opportunities and information on permits for motorized access.

Individuals with qualifying disabilities may apply for a permit to operate a motor vehicle on routes designated by the NYS DEC. This program is known as the Motorized Access Program for People with Disabilities (MAPPWD). The main route through Beaver Dams State Forest is designated MAPPWD.

Directions

From the hamlet of Beaver Dams, head west on Hornby Road. Watch for the area sign along the left (south) side of the road.

• Moody Road intersects Hornby Road at (2.284300°N, -76.997473°W) Google Maps

Beaver Dams State Forest has a small parking lot about a 1/2 mile southerly along Moody Road, a road right-of-way across private land.

All coordinates provided are in decimal degrees using NAD83/WGS84 datum.

Rules, Regulations and Outdoor Safety

Practice Leave No Trace Principles when recreating on state land to enjoy the outdoors responsibly, minimize impact on the natural resources and avoid conflicts with other users.

All users of Beaver Dams State Forest must follow all State Land Use Regulations and should follow all Outdoor Safety Practices for the safety of the user and protection of the resource.

Planning and Management

DEC manages these lands in accordance with the management activities described in the Six Nations Unit Management Plan (PDF). In addition to management objectives, the UMP contains detailed information on natural features, recreational infrastructure, geology, natural and human history, habitats, wildlife, fisheries and much more.

If you have questions and/or comments about this UMP, please email us at [email protected]

Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities and Other Information

State Land and Facilities

• Cinnamon Lake State Forest
• Coon Hollow State Forest
• Dry Run State Forest
• Sugar Hill State Forest
• Watkins Glen State Park

Where to Find Nearby Amenities

• Gas, food and other supplies may be found in the nearby communities of Corning or Painted Post.
• Dining opportunities can be found in the nearby communities of Corning, Painted Post, Beaver Dams or Bradford.
• Lodging may be found in the nearby communities of Corning or Painted Post.

Steuben County Conference & Visitors Bureau and Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance can provide information about other recreation, attractions and amenities in this area.

Numerous guidebooks and maps are available with information on the lands, waters, trails and other recreational facilities in this area. These can be purchased at most outdoor equipment retailers, bookstores, and on-line booksellers.

Additional information, outdoor equipment, trip suggestions and guided or self-guided tours may be obtained from outdoor guide and outfitting businesses. Check area chambers of commerce, telephone directories or search the internet for listings.

Consider hiring an outdoor guide if you have little experience or woodland skills. See the NYS Outdoor Guides Association for information on outdoor guides.