Meads Creek State Forest

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Meads Creek State Forest (Steuben Reforestation Area # 7) is located four miles north of the hamlet of Campbell. The forest is located in the town of Campbell, Steuben County.

View of Meads Creek

History
The first settlers in the town of Campbell arrived around 1801. The town was formed in 1831. 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. Smaller additions were made in the early 1960's using the authority of the Parks and Recreation land acquisition bond acts. The current size is about 1,452 acres.
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) assisted with development work in this forest. However, most of the tree planting was done post World War II (1946-1955) by Department crews. CCC activities focused on fire control and road work.
Meads Creek was an important source of water power early in Steuben County history. None of the mill sites are located on current state forest properties. Meads Creek is also a classified trout stream.

Field Notes
Recreational opportunities on this state forest focus on rustic experiences with a limited amount of development. There are no formally designated trails.
Town and county roads provide mountain biking opportunities. Hunting and trapping are also popular activities.
This forest has only a small amount of planted softwoods. This planting occured in the mid-1960's by Department crews. The red pine plantation on the corner of Taft Road and Stony Ridge Road is currently suffering an aggressive attack by Ips beetle. This beetle is also known as the engraver beetle. It forms tunnels beneath the bark which will kill the tree.
Today, Meads 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, travel north from Coopers Plains on CR #28, Meads Creek Road. A left turn on Wixon Road will take you north through 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