Klondike State Forest
- Open for recreation: Year-round
- Fee: Free
- Contact Information:
- DEC Region 7 Altmar Office (M-F, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM), (315) 298-7467; R7Forestry@dec.ny.gov
- 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: Town of Amboy, Oswego County
- Wildlife Management Unit: 6K
- Map: Klondike State Forest Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator
Klondike State Forest encompasses 875 acres of diverse landscape. Recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, hiking, trapping and nature observation are frequently enjoyed on the property. There is a multi-purpose trail that can be used for hiking or cross country skiing.
A portion of the property bounds North Pond and leads into a naturally occurring bog. This area provides excellent habitat for many different species of both rare and common plants and animals. Water fowl and insects can often be observed in great numbers. Another large wetland complex which boasts some rare and endangered species lies just to the south of North Pond.
Featured Activities
Hiking
General information on hiking includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
The one hiking trail loops in with Klondike Public Forest Access Road (Cusson Drive). Do not hike in ski tracks.
Camping
General information on primitive camping includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
Primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.
Fishing
General information on fishing includes how-to and safety tips and links to seasons, rules and regulations.
Fishing information for Central NY is available.
Hunting & Trapping
General Information on hunting and general information on trapping includes how-to and safety tips with links to seasons, rules and regulations.
Cross-country Skiing & Snowshoeing
General information on cross-country skiing and snowshoeing includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
Klondike Public Forest Access Road (Cusson Drive) and the hiking trail are designated as a cross-country ski trail. Do not hike in ski tracks.
Wildlife
General information on animals includes links to information about birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians and insects that inhabit or migrate through the state.
Accessible Features
General information on accessible recreation includes links to other locations with accessible recreation opportunities and information on permits for motorized access.
The multi-purpose trail allows motorized access for people with mobility impairments. A permit is required through the Motorized Access Program for People with Disabilities.
Directions
From NY Route 69 turn onto Tanner Road, which runs through the eastern portion of the forest. Other access routes throughout the forest can be reached from Tanner Road.
Roadside parking is available at Tanner Road.
- Klondike Public Forest Access Road (Cusson Drive) (43.3657458°N, 75.989627°W) Google Maps (leaves DEC website)
All coordinates provided are in decimal degrees using NAD83/WGS84 datum.
Rules, Regulations and Outdoor Safety
Practice Leave No Trace Principles (leaves DEC website) 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 Klondike 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.
Planning and Management
DEC accepted comments on the draft Fish Creek Unit Management Plan (UMP) through Sunday, July 31, 2022. For questions and comments about this UMP, please email r7.ump@dec.ny.gov.
History
The land that is now Klondike State Forest was originally cleared and used for farm land and timber products by European settlers and Revolutionary War Veterans. Unfortunately for many farmers in the area, soil and weather conditions were not fit for intensive agriculture. Shale and sandstone rocks created an area that was moderately rocky with highly acidic soil characteristics. Less than premium soils and prolonged freezing and wet periods made turning a sustainable profit very difficult. As a result, many farmers abandoned their farms and headed out to the Midwest in search of more productive land.
The State Reforestation Law of 1929 and the Hewitt Amendment of 1931 set forth new legislation that authorized the Conservation Department (now DEC) to acquire land, by gift or purchase, for reforestation areas. These State Forests, consisting of no less than 500 acres of contiguous land were to be "forever devoted to reforestation and the establishment and maintenance thereon of forests for watershed protection, the production of timber and other forest products, and kindred purposes" (Article 9, Title 5, Environmental Conservation Law).
During the 1930s the majority of Klondike State Forest was purchased under this program by New York State. Lands that had once been cleared for timber and farm land were restored to forests. Between the 1930s and 1950s, the Civilian Conservation Corps planted conifer plantations consisting of mainly white pine, red pine, larch and spruce. This reforestation program reduced the problem of soil erosion, protected water quality and provided forest products and recreational opportunities. Today Klondike State Forest provides diverse ecological, recreational, and economic benefits for both society and wildlife.
If you have questions and/or comments about this UMP, please email us R7Forestry@dec.ny.gov.
Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities & Other Information
State Lands and Facilities
Where to Find Nearby Amenities
- Gas and food may be found in the nearby communities of Williamstown and Parish.
- Lodging may be found in the nearby community of Pulaski.
Oswego County Tourism Office (leaves DEC website) 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 (leaves DEC website) for information on outdoor guides.
