Whalen Memorial State Forest

• Open for recreation: Year-round

• Fee: Free
• Contact Information:
  • DEC Region 9 Dunkirk Office (M-F 8:30AM - 4:30PM), (716) 363-2052; [email protected]
  • Search, rescue, wildfire, and enforcement matters: 911- or - 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264) 
    A local Forest Ranger is a valuable source of information for the state land you would like to visit.
• Location: Towns of North Harmony and Sherman, Chautauqua County
• Wildlife Management Unit: 9J
• Map: Whalen Memorial State Forest Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator

The 1,325-acre Whalen Memorial State Forest is located in the southwestern area of Chautauqua County in the town of North Harmony. The forest includes habitats for various wildlife species such as deer, rabbit, grouse and turkey. It provides opportunities for many informal outdoor recreational activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, snowmobiling and hunting. This area is also a source of raw material for New York's forest products industry, which provides employment and income for many New Yorkers.

Directions

To reach Whalen Memorial State Forest, from Interstate 86 take Exit 7, turn right onto County Route 33, proceed north for 0.75 miles to County Route 18. Proceed west on County Route 18 for 2.5 miles to Stebbins Road. Proceed south on Stebbins Road for 2.25 miles. The entrance to Whalen Forest Road is at the yellow gate.

All coordinates provided are in decimal degrees using NAD83/WGS84 datum.

• Eggleston Hill Parking Lot (42.118105°N, 79.519393°W) Google Maps

Rules, Regulations and Outdoor Safety

Practice Leave No Trace Principles when recreating on state land to enjoy the outdoors responsibly, minimize impact on the natural resources and avoid conflicts with other users.

All users of Whalen Memorial State Forest must follow all State Land Use Regulations and should follow all Outdoor Safety Practices for the safety of the user and protection of the resource.

Specific Rules

Biking, hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are allowed on the trail. Motor vehicles are prohibited. Horseback riding is also prohibited on the trail, but it is allowed on the property. However, there are no designated trails for this activity.

Planning and Management

DEC manages these lands in accordance with the management activities described in the Chautauqua Unit State Forests Unit Management Plan. In addition to management objectives, the UMP contains detailed information on natural features, recreational infrastructure, geology, natural and human history, habitats, wildlife, fisheries and much more.

If you have questions and/or comments about this UMP, please email us at [email protected].

Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities and Other Information

State Lands and Facilities

• Alder Bottom Wildlife Management Area
• Panama State Forest
• Watts Flats Wildlife Management Area
• Chautauqua Gorge State Forest
• North Harmony State Forest
• Mount Pleasant State Forest
• Hill Higher State Forest

Where to Find Nearby Amenities

• Lodging and dining opportunities as well as gas, food and other supplies can be found in the nearby community of Mayville.

Chautauqua County Visitors' Bureau can provide information about other recreation, attractions and amenities in this area.

Numerous guidebooks and maps are available with information on the lands, waters, trails and other recreational facilities in this area. These can be purchased at most outdoor equipment retailers, bookstores and on-line booksellers.

Additional information, outdoor equipment, trip suggestions and guided or self-guided tours may be obtained from outdoor guide and outfitting businesses. Check area chambers of commerce, telephone directories or search the internet for listings.

Consider hiring an outdoor guide if you have little experience or woodland skills. See the NYS Outdoor Guides Association for information on outdoor guides.