Cameron State Forest

• Open for recreation: Year-round

• Fee: Free
• Contact Information:
  • DEC Region 8 Bath Office (M-F, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM), (607) 622-8282; [email protected]
  • 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 Cameron, Steuben County
• Wildlife Management Unit: 8T
• Map: Cameron State Forest Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator

The 1,990-acre Cameron State Forest includes Cameron Pond, two smaller ponds, a gas pipeline down the middle and a native grassland field near the southern end. Today, Cameron and all state forests in New York are managed for multiple benefits to serve the needs of the people of New York. Sustainable management practices will ensure a perpetual supply of timber, a diversity of wildlife habitats, compatible recreational opportunities and clean water.

Directions

To gain access to this state forest, from Bath, take County Route #10 heading south. To gain access to this forest from Addison, travel west on County Route 119, make a right turn (north) onto County Route #10. The state forest can be accessed by turning to the west on either Stone House Road or West Cameron Road. Cameron Pond is located off of West Cameron Road, with room for about 6 cars.

• West Cameron Road Parking: (42.242250°N, 77.403538°W) Google Maps

All coordinates provided are in decimal degrees using NAD83/WGS84 datum.

Rules, Regulations and Outdoor Safety

Practice Leave No Trace Principles 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 Cameron State Forest must follow all State Land Use Regulations and should follows all Outdoor Safety Practices for the safety of the user and protection of the resource.

Planning and Management

DEC has developed a Draft Canisteo River Basin Unit Management Plan (UMP) which describes the proposed management activities for these lands. 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 [email protected]

Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities and Other Information

State Land and Facilities

• Cameron Mills State Forest
• Tracy Creek State Forest
• West Cameron Wildlife Management Area
• Helmer Creek Wildlife Management Area

Where to Find Nearby Amenities

• Gas, food and other supplies may be found in the nearby communities of Cameron Mills, Bath or Addison.
• Dining opportunities can be found in the nearby communities of Bath or Addison
• Lodging may be found in the nearby community of Bath.

Steuben County Conference & Visitors Bureau and Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance can provide information about other recreation, attractions and amenities in this area.

Numerous guide books 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 for information on outdoor guides.