Indian Pipe State Forest

State Reforestation Area Lewis #24

This 597-acre state forest is named for Iroquois Indian artifacts including pipe fragments that have been discovered in the area. When the State of New York acquired this property in 1938 most of it was covered with blow sand that had developed from the depleted soils of failed subsistence farms. The daunting task of stabilizing the sand dunes fell to the state tree planting crews. This challenge was met with the establishment of miles of soil anchoring "sand fence" and the planting of hundreds of thousands of drought hardy scotch, jack, and pitch pines. The pine forest that exists today is the result of those efforts. Access through the central section of this forest is provided by the 0.7 mile long Dunes Forest Access Road.

The Crystal Creek Trail and Fishing Pier located off Ossant Road is accessible and is open to individuals with Motorized Access Program for People with Disabilities (MAPPWD) permits.

Directions

From Lowville, take State Route 812 north 5.3 miles to a right turn on Tilman Road, go 1.3 miles to Lomber Road. Turn right and proceed 1.25 miles.