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; [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 Ellenbury, Clinton County
• Wildlife Management Unit: 5C
• Map: Moon Pond State Forest Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || 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.

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

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 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 [email protected].

Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities and Other Information

State Lands and Facilities

• Chazy Highlands Wild Forest
• Lewis Preserve Wildlife Management Area
• Spring Brook 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 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 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.