Cobb Creek 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; information.r6@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 Harrisburg, Lewis County
- Wildlife Management Unit: 6K
- Map: Cobb Creek State Forest Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator
This 2,185-acre state forest is named for a major stream, Cobb Creek, which, over the millennia, has cut a deep gulf through the native limestone underlying the property. This area, consisting of undulating ridges and deep creek beds, is quite typical of the Tug Hill Plateau. In addition to Cobb Creek, two other streams, Mud Creek and Silver Brook help to drain the seasonal rains and deep winter snow.
Featured Activities
Hiking
General information on hiking includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
There are two unpaved public forest access roads totaling approximately 0.5 mile that provide access to the forest.
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.
The Deer River runs along the southwestern boundary of the forest. Cobb Creek, Mud Creek and Silver Brook meander across the property. All 4 water bodies provide excellent opportunities for trout fishing.
North Central NY Fishing provides information on fishing in the area and links to top fishing waters, stocking lists, public fishing access and waters open to ice fishing listed by county.
Hunting & Trapping
General Information on hunting and general information on trapping includes how-to and safety tips with links to seasons, rules and regulations.
Wildlife
General information on animals includes links to information about birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians and insects that inhabit or migrate through the state.
Directions
From Copenhagen, take Lewis County Route 17 (Woodbattle Road) South, proceed 3 miles. Turn left onto Thesier Road, continue less than a mile and turn left onto Putnam Road for the parking area.
- Putnam Pond parking area (43.84715177°N, 75.67362266°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 Cobb Creek 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
Mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are allowed on the property; however, there are no trails on this property currently maintained for these activities.
Planning and Management
DEC manages these lands in accordance with the management activities described in the Tug Hill North Unit Management Plan (PDF, 7.9MB). 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 r6.ump@dec.ny.gov.
History
Valuable timber stands of natural hardwoods and pine plantations are managed by DEC's forestry staff through carefully controlled timber sales. In 1994-95, approximately 250 acres of mostly open land surrounded by this state forest was purchased by DEC and subsequently planted with white spruce and wildlife trees, including many varieties of apples. In spite of harsh winters and tree browsing by deer, many of these trees have survived, and are today beginning to provide cover and food for local wildlife.
Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities & Other Information
State Lands and Facilities
- Lookout State Forest
- Pinckney State Forest
- Grant Powell State Forest
- Granger State Forest
- Tug Hill State Forest
Where to Find Nearby Amenities
- Gas, food and other supplies may be found in the nearby communities of Copenhagen and Lowville.
- Lodging and dining opportunities can be found in the nearby community of Lowville.
Adirondacks Tug Hill (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.
