Tracy Creek State Forest

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Tracy Creek State Forest (Steuben Reforestation Area # 16) is located one mile northwest of the hamlet of Rathbone, in the Allegheny Plateau. The forest is located in the town of Rathbone, Steuben County.

Salamander along a Trail on Tracy Creek

History
This area was first settled in approximately 1793. The town of Rathbone was formed in 1856. As noted in numerous other state forest descriptions, agricultural abandonment occurred relatively early (1910-1929) on the hilltop lands occupied by this state forest.
This forest was acquired under the terms of the Hewlett Amendment to the New York State Constitution and the terms of the Enlarged Reforestation Act. Acquisition was not completed until the post World War II era (1946-1950). The current size of the area is about 569 acres.
As noted above, this forest was not acquired until after the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) era. Thus the CCC did not conduct reforestation activities on this Forest. Planted softwood does not make up a large percentage of this forest.

Field Notes
Recreational opportunities in this state forest focus on rustic experiences with a limited amount of development. There is one formally designated trail, the "Long View Trail", which accesses the northern 2/3 of the forest, along a gated administrative access road. Town, county, and DEC roads provide mountain biking opportunities. Hunting and trapping are also pursued by both local residents and by those from outside the local area.
Portions of this forest will require significant walking to access. Some portions may be considered remote and difficult to access. This forest also has a fair sized component of open fields which are somewhat unique on state forest properties.
Tracy Creek, which flows through the center of the forest, is a major water course and has, in the past, had significant incidents of flash flooding.
Today, Tracy Creek 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.
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 forest from the Hamlet of Rathbone, travel northerly on County Route 21, make a right turn (again northerly) onto County Route 80, which traverses the center of the forest.

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