Nelson Swamp State Forest

Nelson Swamp Unique Area is located approximately 20 miles southeast of Syracuse within the Madison County towns of Cazenovia, Fenner and Nelson. From State Route 20, which passes through the swamp, a traveler's gaze is often drawn to a low lying landscape of wet meadows, deciduous woods and dark groves of cedar and pine. From the State Route's hilltop perspective, one can follow the Chittenango Creek as it meanders on its circuitous journey north to Lake Ontario. The Chittenango, which is the dominant water course within the swamp, was commonly referred to as Chittening by settlers but was derived from the Oneida word "Chu-de-naany" meaning "where the sun shines out".

History

Historically, "Cedar Swamp" played an important role in the development of Nelson's agricultural economy. Many area farmers owned swamp parcels known as "post lots" that provided a ready supply of timber and other forest products. The rot resistant wood of white cedar was used for split rail fencing and poles for supporting hop vines. White pine was cut and milled for building materials and balsam fir was harvested for decorative greens and Christmas trees. Baskets were woven from thin strips of black ash and the dense wood of American elm was used to manufacture a variety of farm implements

Field Notes

In recent decades Nelson Swamp has been of interest to botanists and other students of natural history who have been attracted to the area's rich diversity of plant and animal life. The most recent survey cataloged 400 species of vascular plants including the endangered striped coral root and threatened spreading globeflower. Striped coral root, showy lady slipper and small purple-fringed orchid are just three of the many species of orchids known to occur within the swamp. The area also supports a diverse population of breeding birds with 105 species recorded during a 1990 survey. In an effort to ensure perpetual protection of the swamp's unique natural resources, while at the same time providing opportunities for compatible public use, the DEC released the Nelson Swamp Unit Management Plan (UMP) in March, 2000. The plan includes specific objectives for habitat management, land conservation, public education, research and access for passive recreation.

A segment of the North County Scenic Trail passes through Nelson Swamp on the abandoned grade of the West Shore Railroad. The elevated grade offers the best opportunity for accessing interior sections of the swamp without impacting sensitive wetland soils. A trail head kiosk and parking area are located adjacent to Stone Quarry Road.

State Forest Regulations

Anyone enjoying the use of this State Forest must observe the following rules which protect them and the forest environment:

Do not litter. Carry out what you carry in. Burying of refuse is prohibited.
If you build a fire, do so with care and use wood from dead and downed trees only. Never leave a fire unattended.
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.
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.
No permanent structures should be established, including tree stands or blinds.

Directions

To reach the trail head, take State Route 20 east from the village of Cazenovia to Stone Quarry Road. Proceed south on Stone Quarry Road for 2.2 miles and the trail head is on the left.

Important Numbers

State Forest Office (M-F 8am-4pm): 607-674-4036

Forest Ranger (Evenings, Weekends and Holidays): 315-655-5643

Emergencies: 911