South Bradford State Forest
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South Bradford State Forest (Steuben Reforestation Area # 3) is located eight miles Southeast of Bath, near the hamlet of South Bradford, in the Allegheny Plateau. It is located in the town of Bradford, Steuben County and the town of Orange, Schuyler County.
State Sign on South Bradford
History
This area was settled beginning in approximately 1793. The town of Bradford was formed in 1836. 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 from 1932-1938 under the terms of the Hewett Amendment to the State Constitution and the authority of the Enlarged Reforestation Act. Smaller additions were made in the early 1960's under the authority of the Parks and Recreation land acquisition bond act. The current size is about 1,819 acres.
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was quite active in this forest in the early days. Most of the softwood plantations were initiated during the CCC era (roughly between 1930 and 1940). A great deal of experimental planting was carried out on this unit, with stands of douglas fir, and Siberian larch surviving to the present. A considerable quantity of black cherry was also planted, although very little has survived.
This area has also been involved in mineral extraction. Natural gas wells were drilled in the 1940's. There has been a great deal of gas exploration and development on this unit within the last five years as well.
Field Notes
Recreational opportunities on this state forest focus on rustic experiences with a limited amount of development. The Finger Lakes Trail provides good access to the interior of the forest. There is a very attractive lean-to located along the Finger Lakes Trail in the southwest portion of the forest.
Town and county roads provide mountain biking opportunities. Hunting and trapping are also popular activities.
As many of the plantations established by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) reach the end of their natural life (75-100 years of age), they are being converted to natural hardwood stands.
As noted above, this forest also has significant mineral activity. The McNutt Run natural gas field and the Meads Creek natural gas field are managed by Fortuna Energy, Inc. Visitors should expect to see natural gas wellheads and pipelines. The pipeline corridors provide excellent access to the interior of the forest (foot or horseback travel only, please!)
Today, South Bradford and all state forests in New York are managed for multiple benefits to serve the needs of the people of New York. Sustainable forestry practices ensure a perpetual supply of timber, a diversity of wildlife habitats, compatible recreational opportunities and clean water.
Accessible Features
The only ATV trails that exist are for persons with disabilities - pursuant to the Motorized Access Program for People with Disabilities (MAPPWD). Individuals with qualifying disabilities may apply for a permit to operate an ATV on trails designated by the NYS DEC. A permit must first be obtained from the DEC. Dennis Road, from the intersection of the CCC road southerly to the state forest boundary is a MAPPWD trail.
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 may be established, including tree stands or blinds.
Directions
To gain access to this state forest from Bath, take State Highway 415 heading south. In the village of Savona turn onto State Route 226, heading north. In the hamlet of Sonora turn onto County Route #18, heading east. At the four corners in the center of the hamlet of South Bradford, continue nearly straight ahead onto Dennis Road, which gives access to 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
