Moon Pond 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 Ellenbury, Clinton County
- Wildlife Management Unit: 5C
- Map: Moon Pond State Forest Map || Moon Pond State Forest Map (PDF) || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator
The 786-acre Moon Pond State Forest features one unmarked trail to Moon Pond on the east side of the property.
Featured Activities
Hiking
General information on hiking includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
A 1.9-mile unmarked multiple-use trail begins at the informal roadside parking along Sharrett Road and connects to Moon Pond.
Camping
General information on primitive camping includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
There are no designated campsites; but primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail or water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.
Hunting and 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 allowed during appropriate seasons.
Cross-country Skiing and Snowshoeing
General information on cross-country skiing and snowshoeing includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules and regulations.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are permitted on all hiking trails.
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
The Moon Pond State Forest Area is roughly bordered on the south by the Smith Road, on the east by Sharrett Road, on the north by the Arno and McCoy Roads and on the west by the Smith Road.
- Moon Pond informal roadside parking area (44.857497°N, 73.838874°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 Moon Pond 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
Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and mountain biking are allowed within the property but there are no designated trails or maintained areas for these activities.
Planning and Management
DEC is developing a management plan which will describe the management activities for these lands. In addition to management objectives, the UMP will contain 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 r5.ump@dec.ny.gov.
Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities & Other Information
State Lands and Facilities
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 communities of Ellenburg Center.
- Dining opportunities can be found in the nearby communities of Ellenburg Center.
- Lodging may be found in the nearby communities of Ellenburg Center and Plattsburgh.
Clinton County (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.
