Urbana State Forest
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Urbana State Forest (Steuben Reforestation Area # 6) is located five miles north of the village of Hammondsport. The forest is located in the towns of Urbana, Pulteney, and Wheeler, all located in Steuben County.
Wildlife Observation Platform overlooking Huckleberry Bog
History
The first settlers in Urbana arrived around 1793 The town was formed in 1822. As noted in numerous other state forest descriptions, agricultural abandonment occurred relatively early (1910-1929) on the hilltop lands occupied by this state forest.
The majority of this property was acquired by the State between 1930 and 1940 under the terms of the Hewlett Amendment to the State Constitution and the authority of the Enlarged Reforestation Act. Significant additions were made in the early 1960's using the Parks and Recreation land acquisition bond acts. The current extent is about 2,690 acres.
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was active in doing development work on this forest. Most of the tree planting was done post World War II (1946-1955) by Department crews. There are some younger plantations which were established on "bond act" lands in the mid-1960's.
This area was, at one time, much more highly populated than at the present. There is a fairly extensive cemetery (Glen Brook Cemetery) located on private lands within the forest, near the Reservoir Hill - Wixon Road intersection.
Field Notes
Recreational opportunities on this state forest focus on rustic experiences with a limited amount of development. The Bristol Hills Branch of the Finger Lakes Trail provides good access to the interior of the forest. A short loop trail also gives access to Huckleberry Bog. Huckleberry Bog is a wetland which supports Highbush Blueberry and a variety of other heath type plants. An interpretive brochure is available, on-site, for this area. Town and county roads provide mountain biking opportunities. Hunting and trapping are also pursued by both local residents and by those from outside the local area.
The majority of the softwood plantations are fairly young. Many of the red pine plantations are suffering decline as they were planted on areas that are very wet and not favorable to good growth in red pine.
Today, Urbana 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. Fires should be well away from natural gas wellheads or pipelines.
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.
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.
Directions
To gain access to this state forest, from Hammondsport, proceed north on Reservoir Hill Road. The forest may be accessed from Reservoir Hill, Glenbrook, Colegrove Hill, or Bean Station Roads.
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
