Sodom State Forest

• Open for recreation: Year-round

• Fee: Free
• Contact Information:
  • DEC Region 6 Potsdam Office (M-F, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM), (315) 265-3090; [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 Madrid, St. Lawrence County
• Wildlife Management Unit: 6A
• Map: Sodom State Forest Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator

The 1,426-acre Sodom State Forest consists of 6 separate parcels which were purchased between 1949 and 1952 for the purposes of reforestation, wildlife management, timber production, recreation and watershed protection.

The topography of this property is very flat with extensive wetlands spread throughout the area. The wettest areas are dominated by open wetlands and shrub swamps, which gradually transition to swamp hardwoods and white cedar in seasonal flooded areas. Drier upland sites support northern hardwood and white pine forests. As with many state forests, much of the area is former agricultural land which has reverted to forest.

Directions

From Potsdam: Head north towards Madrid on Route 345 for 8.52 miles, then turn right onto Route 310 and continue for 2.56 miles. Next, turn left onto Ruddy Road and continue for 0.6 mile. The Sodom Public Forest Access Road (PFAR) will be on your right.

• Trailhead for Sodom public forest access road (44.778327°N, 75.096341°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 Sodom 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

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

DEC manages these lands in accordance with the management activities described in the St. Lawrence Flatlands Unit Management Plan (PDF, 17MB). 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 Lands and Facilities

• Grantville State Forest
• Raymondville State Forest
• Wilson Hill Wildlife Management Area
• Knapp Station State Forest
• Lost Nation State Forest

Where to Find Nearby Amenities

• Gas, lodging, dining opportunities, food and other supplies can be found in the nearby communities of Potsdam, Madrid, Norwood, Norfolk and Massena.

St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce 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.