Sonyea State Forest
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Sonyea State Forest (Livingston Reforestation Area # 3) is located one mile southerly of the hamlet of Sonyea, in the towns of Mount Morris, Groveland, and West Sparta, all in Livingston County.
Rock Cliff on Sonyea
History
The first settlers in the town of Groveland probably arrived around 1792. The Clinton-Sullivan Expedition was certainly in this area much earlier. The town was the site of the Boyd-Parker ambush and the "torture tree" incident. The town was formed in 1798. The first settlers in the town of West Sparta probably arrived around 1795, and the town was formed from the town of Sparta in 1846.The first settlers in the town of Mount Morris probably arrived around 1795 and this town ws formed from the town of Leicester in 1818.
This forest was acquired by interagency transfer from the New York State Department of Mental Hygiene. It was a part of the former Craig Colony.
The current size is about 931 acres. Prior to acquisition by the DEC, this area had been administered by the NYS Department of Mental Hygiene as a epileptic colony and state mental hospital. Many remnants of the Craig Colony remain on the state forest.
The Keshequa Gorge occurs along the western boundary of this state forest. Within the gorge are remains of the Genesee Canal and of a major branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad. The old railroad grade/canal tow path offers the best access by foot along the bottom of the gorge.
Field Notes
Recreational opportunities on this area focus on rustic experiences with a limited amount of development. The Genesee Valley Greenway generally follows the route of the Genesee Canal. However, in the Keshequa Gorge difficulties with access and issues with high water have encouraged the DEC to seek an alternate route. This re-routing is still in progress.
Most of this forest will require significant walking to access. This forest is popular for all types of hunting. Users should exercise caution in the Keshequa Gorge area.
The eastern portions of this property are somewhat more remote and will require significant walking to access. This area includes the headwaters of Two Mile Creek.
This forest shares a common boundary with Groveland Correctional Facility. As regulations differ between these areas, users should remain cognizant of which unit they are on.
Today, Sonyea and all state forests and multiple use areas 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 Sonyea, proceed west on State Route 36. Make a left on Ridge Road, stay left on Moyer Road, turn left onto Dutch Street. Follow Dutch Street south to the hamlet of Tuscarora. Turn left on Presbyterian Road, and then left on Union Corners Road, which dead ends in the forest.
Important Telephone Numbers
Fire and Law Enforcement : 585-226-6706 or 911
State Forest Office (M - F; 8:00 am to 4:00 pm) 607-776-2165
