McCarthy Hill State Forest
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McCarthy Hill State Forest (Steuben Reforestation Area # 21) is located one mile east of the village of Addison, in the Allegheny Plateau. The area is located in the towns of Addison and Erwin, Steuben County.
Facility Sign for McCarthy Hill
History
The first settlers in the town of Erwin arrived around 1786. The town was formed in 1826. 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 area was acquired under the terms of the Parks and Recreation Land Acquisition Bond Act in the 1960's and is adjacent to Pinnacle State Park. The current extent is about 794 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 forest. Planted softwood does not make up an important part of this forest.
Field Notes
Recreational opportunities on this state forest focus on rustic experiences with a limited amount of development. There are approximately 8 miles of designated cross-country ski trails. Contact the Bath office for an area brochure, print it from the above pdf link, or pick one up when you sign in at the kiosk. The cross-country ski trails are marked with plastic disks and brown signs, orange rectangular blazes painted on the trees mark the path the Great Eastern Trail takes across this state forest. The Great Eastern Trail is still a work in progress, but will eventually start on South Bradford State Forest and end in Florida.
Hunting and trapping are pursued by both local residents and by those from outside the local area. As primary forest types are oak and oak-pine, mast (acorns, seeds, and nuts) dependent wildlife species such as deer and squirrels are common in this area.
Most of this forest requires significant walking to access and some portions may be considered difficult to access. Some terrain is steep.
Today, McCarthy Hill 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.
Accessible Features
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 the Motorized Access Program for People with Disabilities (MAPPWD). A portion of the Access Trail, behind a gate, is the designated trail for this state forest.
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 village of Addison, travel south on County Route #5, turn left (east) onto Ackerson Road, which dead-ends at a state forest parking lot.
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
