62 Forests to Explore in New York

Harriman State Park, located in Rockland County, New York, is a vast and diverse wilderness area known for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance. It is the second-largest state park in New York State, covering over 46,000 acres, and it is a treasured destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.The park's landscape is characterized by rugged terrain, dense woodlands, rolling hills, and serene lakes and streams.

The High Peaks Wilderness is a vast and rugged wilderness area located in the state of New York. It is situated within the larger Adirondack Park and is primarily located in Essex County, with parts extending into Franklin County. The High Peaks Wilderness is known for its stunning mountain landscapes, extensive trail systems, and pristine natural beauty. These peaks offer breathtaking vistas, challenging hikes, and rewarding climbing experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.

The High Peaks Wilderness in Franklin County, New York, is comprised of more than 100,000 acres of pristine wilderness. Considered one of the most rugged and remote areas in the Adirondack region, it has been designated as a National Historic Landmark since 1972. The terrain is mostly mountainous with elevations ranging from 1,500 to nearly 5,000 feet. Its ruggedness and remoteness make it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Highland Forest County Park is a stunning and diverse natural area, encompassing over 2,800 acres, the park offers visitors a range of outdoor experiences, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.The park features an extensive network of hiking and cross-country skiing trails that wind through lush forests, meadows, and rolling hills. These trails cater to varying skill levels, allowing visitors to explore the park's scenic beauty and wildlife.

Hook Mountain State Park, located in Rockland County, New York, is a scenic and recreational haven nestled along the Hudson River. This 676-acre park offers visitors a diverse array of outdoor activities and stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes.One of the park's main attractions is Hook Mountain, a prominent geological feature that rises dramatically above the Hudson River.

This stunning wilderness area spans over 50,000 acres of diverse forests, verdant valleys, and rushing waterfalls. Visitors to this remote wilderness area can experience the beauty of nature in its purest form, with an array of recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. The Indian Head Wilderness is also home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, coyotes, and bobcats, and offers visitors a chance to truly get away from it all and reconnect with the natural world.

The Jessup River Wild Forest is a diverse and expansive wilderness area located in the Adirondack Park, primarily within Hamilton County, New York. Spanning over 47,000 acres, it offers a wide range of recreational opportunities and showcases the natural beauty of the Adirondack region.The wild forest is named after the Jessup River, a scenic waterway that winds through the area. The river provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

Lake Taghkanic State Park in Columbia County, New York, is a stunningly beautiful park that offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Spanning 1,872 acres of lush forest, Lake Taghkanic is the largest park in Columbia County. It is home to a variety of wildlife such as white-tailed deer, foxes, raccoons, and waterfowl. The park features a variety of activities such as camping, fishing, swimming, biking, and hiking.

Welcome to MANITOGA, also known as The Russel Wright Design Center, a hidden gem nestled amidst the natural beauty of Putnam County, New York. This unique and inspiring destination is a celebration of art, design, and the harmonious coexistence of architecture with the surrounding landscape.

Mills Norrie State Park is located in Dutchess County, New York and features a variety of recreational activities for visitors. Spanning 235 acres, the park is situated on the majestic Hudson River and offers stunning views of the river and its surrounding countryside. The park features a boat launch, fishing sites, picnic areas, trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, and a children’s playground.

Mine Kill State Park, located in Schoharie County, New York, is a scenic and diverse recreational area that offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities and natural beauty to explore. Situated along the Schoharie Creek, the park covers over 500 acres and is a popular destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers.One of the main highlights of Mine Kill State Park is the Mine Kill Falls, a stunning 80-foot waterfall that serves as the park's focal point.

Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a breathtaking natural gem. Nestled within the Shawangunk Mountains, the park offers visitors a stunning landscape of rugged cliffs, sparkling lakes, lush forests, and pristine waterfalls.Covering over 22,000 acres, Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park boasts an extensive network of well-marked trails, catering to hikers, mountain bikers, and rock climbers of all skill levels.

Morgan Hill State Forest, located in Cortland County, New York, encompasses 1,400 acres of upland hardwood forest. The low-lying hills of Morgan Hill provide a scenic backdrop for outdoor recreation opportunities year-round. The forest is crisscrossed by numerous trails and roads, making it easily accessible to walkers, hikers, bikers, off-road vehicle riders, and anyone looking to explore nature.

Oak Orchard Wildlife Management Area in Genesee County is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. This sprawling sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, showcasing the best of western New York's natural beauty. Visitors can spend hours hiking through the winding trails, breathing in the fresh air and taking in the picturesque scenery. The area's resident wild animals, including white-tailed deer, waterfowl, and birds of prey, are a sight to behold.

The Pillsbury Mountain Fire Tower is an iconic landmark located in the Jessup River Wild Forest within the Adirondack Park, primarily in Hamilton County, New York. The fire tower sits atop Pillsbury Mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and distant mountain ranges.The fire tower was originally constructed in the early 20th century as part of a network of towers used for detecting and monitoring forest fires.

Point Au Roche State Park in Clinton County, New York, offers outdoor enthusiasts a variety of recreational opportunities. The park, located on the shores of Lake Champlain, offers visitors the chance to explore the lake’s scenic beauty, which includes a wide variety of wildlife, more than a mile of shoreline, and a historic lighthouse.

Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve is a popular outdoor destination located in Erie County, New York, that covers over 200 acres of wetland, meadow, and woodlands. It features five miles of walking trails and a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities, including birds, turtles, frogs, and beavers. Reinstein Woods is also a great place to learn about the environment, as it offers educational programs, classes, and workshops for children and adults alike.

Robert Moses State Park, located on the western end of Fire Island in Suffolk County, Long Island, New York, is a popular and picturesque beach destination that attracts visitors with its beautiful shoreline, diverse recreational opportunities, and stunning natural beauty.The park, named after the influential urban planner Robert Moses, stretches across several miles, offering visitors access to both the Atlantic Ocean and Great South Bay.

Robert Moses State Park - Thousand Islands, located in St. Lawrence County, New York, is a picturesque state park situated along the St. Lawrence River within the stunning Thousand Islands region. Named after the influential urban planner Robert Moses, the park covers approximately 2,800 acres and offers a diverse range of recreational activities and natural attractions.The park's primary draw is its breathtaking waterfront setting.

Rock City State Forest is a 4,000-acre nature reserve located in the Adirondack region of New York. Established in 1969, the forest is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, with a vast array of trees, plants, and wildflowers to explore. Visitors to the forest can find a variety of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, and biking. The forest also features a wide variety of rock formations and outcrops, including a number of caves and crevices to explore.