Genegantslet State Forest
- Open for recreation: Year-round
- Fee: Free
- Contact Information:
- DEC Region 7 Sherburne Office (M-F, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM), (607)-674-4017; 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: Towns of McDonough and Smithville, Chenango County
- Wildlife Management Unit: 7M
- Map: Genegantslet State Forest Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator
Genegantslet State Forest covers a total of 3,181 acres and is named after the creek that runs along the western side of the property. One of the most popular activities on this forest is trout fishing.
The highest elevation on the forest is approximately 1,740 feet and located on a peak at the northern extent of the forest. The lowest elevation is about 1,100 feet and is found along Genegantslet Creek, at its southernmost point on the forest, near Art Lake Road. Loomis Swamp, south of Stone Quarry Road, in combination with a northern hardwood and hemlock stand, forms a 200 acre forest block managed as a natural area. Natural areas allow trees to grow to their full biological maturity, providing a unique habitat for plants and animals that require an undisturbed environment.
Featured Activities
Hiking
General information on hiking includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
There are no formal hiking trails but hiking is permitted anywhere on the property unless posted otherwise.
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.
This accessible fishing platform was washed out by flood but a local group has recently constructed a new platform on the nearby Chittenango Creek in Chittenango.
For Public Fishing Rights (PFR) information, visit DECinfo Locator - Interactive Trout Stream Fishing Map (DECinfo Locator is best viewed on a desktop computer. Users are encouraged to visit the Trout Stream Fishing Map User Guide first for "how to" instructions for using the fishing map.)
The Genegantslet Creek, after which the forest is named, not only supports trout populations, it is considered to be one of the premiere trout streams in the region. This stream holds native brook trout and is annually stocked with brown trout.
Hunting & Trapping
General Information on hunting and general information on trapping includes how-to and safety tips with links to seasons, rules and regulations.
Snowmobiling
General information on snowmobiling includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
Snowmobiles can travel through the forest on the corridor trail #7. The trail extends from County Route 3, near Loomis Road, up to Art Lake Road and then follows the unplowed sections of Waldon Road and Shore Road.
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 Smithville Flats, take State highway 41 to the intersection of State highway 220. Take 220 north to Art Lake Road. Turn right, cross the Genegantslet Creek, and enter the forest.
There is currently one designated parking area in the forest, on Art Lake Road. This parking area was built for fishing access to the Genegantslet Creek. A second designated parking area will soon be constructed on Creek Road. There are many additional places to park vehicles along the sides of the town roads, as well as on old log decks next to the roads.
The Genegantslet State Forest has many sections of town roads crossing through it, including Art Lake Road, Stone Quarry Road, Whitling Road, Waldon Road, Holtmart Road and Creek Road. Overall, the town roads that are located on the state forest are in good condition; but caution should be used when traveling with passenger cars, as there are some narrow and rough-surfaced sections. Many of the roads are not plowed in the winter.
- Chestnut Road (42.487021,-75.730944) Google Maps (leaves DEC website)
- Creek Road (42.46532,-75.756698) Google Maps (leaves DEC website)
- Stone Quarry Hill Road (42.423145,-75.76735) Google Maps (leaves DEC website)
- Collyer Road (42.415156,-75.776556) 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 Genegantslet 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 manages these lands in accordance with the management activities described in the McDonough Unit Management Plan. 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 R7Forestry@dec.ny.gov.
Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities & Other Information
State Lands and Facilities
Where to Find Nearby Amenities
- Gas, food, dining and lodging may be found in the nearby communities of Oxford and Greene.
Chenango County Tourism Webpage (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.
