Rock Creek State Forest

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Rock Creek State Forest (Steuben Reforestation Area # 12) is located eight miles south of the village of Canisteo. The forest is located in the town of Greenwood, Steuben County. It is in proximity to Greenwood and Turkey Ridge State Forests.

Rock Creek Facility Sign

History
This area was settled beginning in approximately 1796. The town of Greenwood was formed in 1827. 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 Hewett Amendment to the State Constitution and the authority of the Enlarged Reforestation Act. A smaller addition was made in the early 1960's using the Parks and Recreation land acquisition bond act. The current size is about 704 acres.
While the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) did conduct activities on this forest; tree planting was not undertaken by the CCC at this location. Most of tree planting was done by Department crews during the immediate post World War II era (1946-1950). The CCC was active in other development work during the Depression era, including fire control, timber stand improvement, and road work.
This area has also been involved in mineral extraction for some time. The first natural gas wells in this area were drilled in the 1920's (prior to the State taking ownership) .

Field Notes
Recreational opportunities on this state forest focus on rustic experiences with a limited amount of development. There is one short segment of snowmobile trail, maintained by the Ten Towns snowmobile club. 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.

As noted above, this forest also has significant mineral activity. The Greenwood Natural Gas Storage Field is located on this forest and is managed by Columbia Gas Transmission Co. 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!)
This area supports extensive plantations of Japanese larch, red pine, and Scotch pine. Most of the Scotch pine has suffered decline from a variety of insect and disease organisms. The red pine and Japanese larch are somewhat healthier, but will eventually succumb to the same insect and disease mechanisms as the Scotch pine, and be replaced by native hardwood stands.
Today, Rock 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. 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 Canisteo, proceed south on State Route 248. The forest can be accessed from the state highway. For alternate access, turn right (west) onto County Route 62 (Rock Creek Road), and then right onto O'Hargan Road, which bisects 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