Maple Hill State Forest

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Maple Hill State Forest (Chemung Reforestation Area # 2) is located seven miles northeast of the hamlet of Chemung, in the town of Chemung, Chemung County.

View from Maple Hill

History
The first clear records of settlers in the town of Chemung date to 1786. The town was formed in 1798. As noted in numerous other state forest descriptions, agricultural abandonment occurred relatively early (1910-1929) on the hilltop lands occupied by this state forest.
This forest was acquired under the terms of the Parks and Recreation Land Acquisition Bond Act in the 1960's. The current size is about 604 acres.
This forest was not acquired until after the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) era. Thus the CCC did not conduct reforestation or other management activities on this area. Planted softwood does make up an important part of this forest.

Field Notes
Recreational opportunities in this forest focus on rustic experiences with a limited amount of development. 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 NYS DEC. This program is known as CP-3 (Commissioners Policy 3). Pryne Road serves as a CP-3 trail for this unit.
Most of this forest will require significant walking to access. This forest is popular for all types of hunting. As this is a fairly recent addition to the State Forest System, there are significant portions of this forest occupied by open fields. These fields provide for critical habitat diversity, and will be maintained in their present state.
Today, Maple Hill 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 Chemung, proceed northerly on County Route #3 (Wyncoop Creek Road), make a right onto Pryne Road, which dead ends in the state 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