South Hammond 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 Hammond, St. Lawrence County
• Wildlife Management Unit: 6A
• Map: South Hammond State Forest Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator

South Hammond State Forest covers 2,086 acres and was established for the purposes of reforestation, wildlife management, timber production, recreation, and watershed protection.

A unique feature of this forest is an area of exposed Sandstone Pavement Barrens (a type of barren rock). The barrens contains pitch pine and other fire adapted species which are unusual in the surrounding landscape.

Directions

From Hammond: Head south on Route 37 for 4 miles and turn left on to South Hammond Road. Continue on South Hammond Road for approximately 1.2 miles and the state forest will be on either side of the street.

• South Hammond Road pull-off area (44.384815°N, 75.717864°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 South Hammond 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

Hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and horseback riding are all permitted on the property; however, there are no maintained trails for these activities.

Planning and Management

DEC developed the draft St. Lawrence Rock Ridge Unit Management Plan that describes proposed management activities for this and several other state forests in the area. DEC accepted public comments on the draft until April 30, 2022. Questions about this draft UMP may be sent to [email protected].

Timber Management

The topography is very hilly with thin soils and rocky exposed ridge tops. There are few tree plantations on this property. Native white pine can be found across the landscape. Poorer sites are dominated by red and white oaks, eastern hophornbeam, hickories, and other species adapted to dry and nutrient poor soils.

Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities and Other Information

State Lands and Facilities

• Lonesome Bay State Forest
• Pleasant Lake State Forest
• Indian River Wildlife Management Area
• Pulpit Rock State Forest
• Yellow Lake State Forest

Where to Find Nearby Amenities

• Gas, lodging, dining opportunities, food and other supplies may be found in the nearby communities of Hammond, Redwood and Gouverneur.

St. Lawrence 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.