Pigtail Hollow State Forest
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Pigtail Hollow State Forest (Steuben Reforestation Area # 11) is located eight miles north of the village of Bath. The forest is located in the towns of Wheeler and Urbana, Steuben County. It shares a common boundary with Urbana State Forest (Steuben Reforestation Area #6).
View on Pigtail Hollow
The colorful name stems from the crooked nature of the creek bottom (or "hollow") which flows through the center of the property. This area was also known as "Hungry Hollow" during the Depression era. This name is thought to be a reference to the unproductive nature of the soils in this area for agriculture.
History
The first settlers in the town of Wheeler arrived around 1800. The town was formed in 1820. As noted in numerous other state forest descriptions, agricultural abandonment occurred relatively early (1910-1929) on the hilltop lands of 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 998 acres. While the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) did conduct activities in this forest, tree planting was not undertaken by the CCC at this location. Most 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.
Field Notes
Recreational opportunities on this state forest focus on a rustic experience with a limited amount of development. The Bristol Hills branch of the Finger Lakes Trail provides good access to the interior of the forest. 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. Many of the early plantations in this forest were converted to native hardwood stands about ten years ago. Some limited plantings of Norway spruce were made in areas where the soils were good enough to allow some chance for success. This activity has created excellent cover for ruffed grouse.Today, Pigtail Hollow, 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 drive vehicles 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 people 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 Bath, proceed north on County Route 13, Mitchellsville Road. Turn right (also northerly) onto Hungry Hollow 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
