Coyote Flats State Forest

• Open for recreation: Year-round

• Fee: Free
• Contact Information:
  • DEC Region 6 Lowville Office (M-F, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM), 315-376-3521; [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 Theresa and LeRay, Jefferson County
• Wildlife Management Unit: 6G
• Map: Coyote Flats Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator

This 553-acre state forest was named Coyote Flats in the 1970s, at a time when the coyote was first making a come back in the north country. It was aptly named since the entire forest is comprised of low, flat, wet bottomland often frequented by coyotes.

The common tree species found here are aspen, white pine, hemlock, and red maple. Because of the wet ground conditions, timber harvesting from this state forest is extremely limited. Foot access to the area is from the west, along the Coyote Trail. This trail can be used for non-motorized recreation but is also open to motor vehicles.

Directions

From Watertown, take US Interstate 81 north to exit 49. Make a right onto Route 411 east. Travel about 1/4 mile and turn right on Snell road. Proceed 2 miles. There is a 1-2 car parking area at the intersection of Coyote Trail and Drake Road.

• Parking area for 1-2 cars (44.16745°N, 75.87687°W) Google Maps

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

Access to the interior of this State Forest is Coyote Road, off Drake Road (0.99 miles) a Public Forest Access Road.

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. All users of Coyote Flats State Forest must follow all State Land Use Regulation and should follows all Outdoor Safety Practices for the safety of the user and protection of the resource.

Planning and Management

The Ontario Plains Unit Management Plan (PDF) for these lands 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 UMP, or want to be sure you are included in any mailings about public meetings on this state forest, please email us at [email protected].

Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities and Other Information

State Lands and Facilities

• Perch River Wildlife Management Area
• Indian River Wildlife Management Area
• French Creek Wildlife Management Area

Where to Find Nearby Amenities

• Gas, food, dining and lodging can be found in the nearby community of Watertown.

The Thousand Islands Tourism Council 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.