Getting to Stewart State Forest

Stewart State Forest is bounded by the airport on the east side, Interstate 84 on the north side, Rt 207 on the south side and the town of Maybrook to the west. Two primary entrances with room for parking can be found off Rt 17K on the north side, off Ridge Road and Barron Road. On the south side, the main entrance is at Weed Road, directly on Rt. 207. Remember, SSF is a pack it in/pack it out area; facilities are limited to port-o-jons at Ridge Rd. and Weed Rd.; bring your own water!

If you're going to venture off the fire roads (Ridge, Maple, New, Barron), we do recommend you have a map, and a compass doesn't hurt either! SPARC has a full-color, basic map with many trails indicated, of the Stewart State Forest lands, available for a $5 contribution. You can send a map request and check to: SPARC, P.O. Box 90, Blooming Grove, NY 10914.

A great resource to learn much much more about Stewart is the Stewart State Forest Guide Book by local author and entrepreneur Jeff Montanye.

Recreational Activities at Stewart State Forest

Hunting
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Since 1974, the 7,000 acres west of Drury Lane have been a New York State DEC Cooperative Wildlife Management Area, with almost 10,000 hunters visiting the area annually. The area represents a diverse population of game  including deer, turkey, pheasant, grouse, rabbit, squirrel and an occasional black bear. Hunters are allowed access by permit and may park at the entry location lots or in any of the numerous areas provided alongside and inside the lands. Small game season starts in early October; large game/deer season begins around Thanksgiving, when hunters have exclusive use of the Forest into December. Turkey season begins May 1.

Fishing
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 Numerous ponds and small lakes dot Stewart State Forest. Many fishermen visit these waters annually. These waters provide excellent fishing for Bass, Yellow & White Perch, Crappies and Catfish.

Dog Trials
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 Many dog trial and hunting clubs hold regular training sessions and competitions at Stewart State Forest.
 

Horseback
Riding
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 Stewart State Forest provides an excellent place for horseback riding. With 7,000 acres of open space, fire-roads and trails, it has become a favorite place for many riders. Ample parking for horse trailers is available at the entrances on Ridge Road and Barron Road.
   

Bicycling
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 Stewart State Forest provides a variety of terrain to accommodate cyclists of all abilities. Over 16 miles of maintained fire roads offer easy to moderate conditions. More advanced cyclists will enjoy the over 50 miles of single-track trails. Several mountain bike events are held annually on the lands, including SPARC's annual Stewart State Forest Bike Tour. An 11x17 map of the lands with trails marked is available from SPARC for a $5 donation.
   

Hiking
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 Numerous hikers and bird watchers visit the lands regularly. The large amount of land and trails combined with the peace, quiet and solitude of this environment make it an excellent choice for a relaxed hike. Many visitors come to watch the wildlife, especially birds. Stewart State Forest boasts a wide range of birds, and a variety of hawks and other birds of prey.