Sodom State Forest
- Open for recreation: Year-round
- Fee: Free
- Contact Information:
- DEC Region 6 Potsdam Office (M-F, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM), (315) 265-3090; 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 Madrid, St. Lawrence County
- Wildlife Management Unit: 6A
- Map: Sodom State Forest Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator
The 1,426-acre Sodom State Forest consists of 6 separate parcels which were purchased between 1949 and 1952 for the purposes of reforestation, wildlife management, timber production, recreation and watershed protection.
The topography of this property is very flat with extensive wetlands spread throughout the area. The wettest areas are dominated by open wetlands and shrub swamps, which gradually transition to swamp hardwoods and white cedar in seasonal flooded areas. Drier upland sites support northern hardwood and white pine forests. As with many state forests, much of the area is former agricultural land which has reverted to forest.
Featured Activities
Hiking
General information on hiking includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
There are currently no developed trails on this state forest. The property does provide large undeveloped areas well suited for hunting, hiking and nature viewing.
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.
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 Potsdam: Head north towards Madrid on Route 345 for 8.52 miles, then turn right onto Route 310 and continue for 2.56 miles. Next, turn left onto Ruddy Road and continue for 0.6 mile. The Sodom Public Forest Access Road (PFAR) will be on your right.
- Trailhead for Sodom public forest access road (44.778327°N, 75.096341°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 Sodom 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, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and horseback riding are all permitted on the property; however, there are no currently maintained trails for these activities.
Planning and Management
DEC manages these lands in accordance with the management activities described in the St. Lawrence Flatlands Unit Management Plan (PDF, 17MB). 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.
Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities & Other Information
State Lands and Facilities
- Grantville State Forest
- Raymondville State Forest
- Wilson Hill Wildlife Management Area
- Knapp Station State Forest
- Lost Nation State Forest
Where to Find Nearby Amenities
- Gas, lodging, dining opportunities, food and other supplies can be found in the nearby communities of Potsdam, Madrid, Norwood, Norfolk and Massena.
St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce (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.
