Henderson Shores Unique Area

• Open for recreation: Year-round

• Fee: Free
• Contact Information:
  • DEC Region 6 Lowville Office (M-F, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM), (315) 376-3521; [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 Henderson, Jefferson County
• Wildlife Management Unit: 6G
• Map: Henderson Shores Unique Area Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator

This 1,160-acre reforestation area is classified as a "Unique Area" for good reason. The underlying limestone, sometimes right at the surface, provides an unusual habitat for a variety of very specialized plants. Another unique characteristic of the area is the "high banks," a series of limestone cliffs rising perpendicularly from the surface of Lake Ontario. Heavily sculptured by wave action, these banks are truly one of the most magnificent and scenic areas along the entire Lake Ontario shoreline.

Directions

From Watertown, take Interstate 81 south to exit 41. Make a right onto Route 178 west for 11 miles (you will cross state Route 3), to a left on Lighthouse Road, proceed 2.5 miles. The unique area is on both sides of the road.

• Wehle Walk Trail parking area (43.8505745°N, 76.2806778°W) Google Maps
• Radar Road parking area, there is another parking area closer to the water on Radar Road (43.8462296°N, 76.2652588°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 Henderson Shores Unique Area 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

Please note On February 20, 2013, new regulations for this area were adopted; please be familiar with the 190.10 (f) regulations before you visit.

• All camping is prohibited.
• The area is closed to public use between the hours of 10:00 pm and 5:00 am.
• All campfires are prohibited.
• No glass containers allowed.

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

This area is managed by the Ontario Plains Unit Management Plan (PDF) which 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 [email protected].

Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities and Other Information

State Lands and Facilities

• Robert Wehle State Park
• Westcott Beach State Park
• Black Pond Wildlife Management Area
• Lakeview Wildlife Management Area
• Southwick Beach State Park

Where to Find Nearby Amenities

• Gas, lodging, dining opportunities, food and other supplies may be found in the nearby communities of Henderson Harbor, Henderson, Ellisburg and Adams Center.

Jefferson County tourism 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 for information on outdoor guides.