Erwin Hollow State Forest

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Erwin Hollow State Forest (Steuben Reforestation Area # 14) borders the north boundary of the village of Painted Post. It is located in the town of Erwin, Steuben County.

Creek on Erwin Hollow

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.
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. The current size is about 531 acres.
While the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) did conduct limited activities on this forest, tree planting was not undertaken by the CCC at this location. Most of this forest was either fully forested at the time of acquisition or was so brushy that reforestation had only a scant chance of success.

Field Notes
Recreational opportunities in 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 pursued by both local residents and by those from outside the local area. Hunters will need to be extremely cautious to assure they are on state forest property. Discharging a firearm within the village of Painted Post is illegal.
Erwin Hollow Creek which flows through the center of the Forest is a major stream and has, from time to time, been the subject of flash floods.
There is significant mineral activity immediately adjacent to this property. The Cutler Creek gas field is also adjacent to this state forest and is managed by Fortuna Energy, Inc. Visitors should expect to see natural gas and petroleum pipelines in the area. Columbia Gas Transmission, Inc. operates a major gas transmission line which traverses the northern portion of the forest.
The pipeline corridor provides limited access to portions of the interior of the forest (foot travel only, please!)
Some areas are quite steep. Significant walking will be required to see the interior of the forest.
Today, Erwin 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 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 Painted Post proceed north on Erwin Hollow Road. This road 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