Spring Brook State Forest
- Open for recreation: Year-round
- Fee: Free
- Contact Information:
- DEC Region 5 Ray Brook Office (M-F, 8:30 AM - 4:45 PM), (518) 897-1200; info.r5@dec.ny.gov
- Backcountry Emergencies: (518) 891-0235 (24/7) or 911
- Enforcement Matters: (518) 408-5850 (24/7) or 911
- Location: Town of Altona, Clinton County
- Wildlife Management Unit: 5C
- Map: Spring Brook State Forest Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator
The 1,157-acre Spring Brook State Forest has few maintained trails for recreation on Spring Brook State Forest, however, hiking and other non-motorized recreation is allowed throughout the property.
Featured Activities
Hiking
General information on hiking includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
There is 0.25-mile trail that starts at the parking lot off Military Turnpike.
Camping
General information on primitive camping includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
There are no designated camp sites; but primitive camping is allowed. Camping is prohibited within 150 feet of water, road or trail. Camping for more than 3 nights or in a group 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.
Hunting and trapping are permitted on the property in accordance with DEC regulations, unless otherwise posted.
Snowmobiling
General information on snowmobiling includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
The S87 Snowmobile Corridor passes through the property and connects to a larger network of trails. The trail is maintained by the Northern Adirondack Trailbreakers.
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
Spring Brook State Forest is accessed from Military Turnpike.
- Military Turnpike parking area (44.88298773°N, 73.72249282°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 Spring Brook 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
Hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, horseback riding, hunting and trapping are allowed within the property, but there are no designated trails or maintained areas for these activities.
Planning and Management
DEC is developing a recreation management plan which will describe the management activities for public recreation on these lands.
If you have questions about this UMP, please email us at r5.ump@dec.ny.gov.
Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities & Other Information
State Lands and Facilities
- Chazy Highlands Wild Forest
- Chazy Highlands State Forest
- Flat Rock State Forest
- Lewis Preserve WMA
- Dunkin's Reserve State Forest
- Moon Pond State Forest
Where to Find Nearby Amenities
- Gas may be found in the nearby communities of Ellenburg Center and Ellenburg Depot.
- Food and other supplies can be found in the nearby community of Ellenburg Center.
- Dining opportunities can be found in the nearby community of Ellenburg Center.
- Lodging may be found in the nearby communities of Ellenburg Center and Plattsburgh.
Clinton County Tourism (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.
