McCarty Hill State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · NY

McCarty Hill State Forest

McCarty Hill State Forest offers a serene escape with its lush forests and well-maintained trails perfect for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts.

State Forest6,2023+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

6,202

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About McCarty Hill State Forest

McCarty Hill State Forest offers a serene escape with its lush forests and well-maintained trails perfect for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in Cattaraugus County, New York, McCarty Hill State Forest encompasses over 6,202 acres of diverse and vibrant forestland. Designed for multiple uses, it offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, and hunting. The forest's rich ecology is marked by hardwoods such as maple and beech, interspersed with conifer plantations. This area is part of the larger Allegheny Plateau, known for its rolling hills and scenic vistas. Historically, the forest has been a focus for conservation and sustainable logging practices, aimed at preserving this natural resource for future generations. The forest is popular amongst locals and visitors alike for its relatively remote setting, which offers peace and tranquility. Key recreation opportunities include well-marked trails, some of which connect with the popular Rock City State Forest. The forest’s remote nature offers excellent wildlife viewing prospects, with diverse species like deer, turkey, and even the occasional black bear.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near McCarty Hill State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Finger Lakes Trail – Part of a long-distance trail system that passes through the forest.✦ Vibrant autumn foliage that attracts photographers and nature lovers.✦ Opportunities for primitive camping for a back-to-nature experience.✦ Challenging terrain making it ideal for advanced mountain biking.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in McCarty Hill State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in McCarty Hill State Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in McCarty Hill State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in McCarty Hill State Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in McCarty Hill State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in McCarty Hill State Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in McCarty Hill State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in McCarty Hill State Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

McCarty Hill Primitive Camping

Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the forest, offering a true wilderness experience.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near McCarty Hill State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Salamanca, New York
⌖ 1.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Salamanca, New York

Salamanca, NY is your launchpad to the Allegheny wilderness. Hike stunning trails, paddle serene waters, and experience the quiet beauty of nature with every visit.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Coldspring, New York
⌖ 10.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Coldspring, New York

Coldspring, NY offers quiet trails, paddle-friendly waters, and rugged mountain biking routes in the scenic Hudson Highlands. Perfect for outdoor lovers wanting a less crowded basecamp surrounded by nature.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Bradford, Pennsylvania
⌖ 16.05 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bradford, Pennsylvania

Bradford offers peaceful outdoor adventures with easy access to the vast Allegheny National Forest. Enjoy hiking, paddling, mountain biking, and winter sports amid forests and waterways just outside town.

Late spring through early fall for hiking and paddling; winter for skiing and snowmobiling
Explore Town
Olean, New York
⌖ 16.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Olean, New York

Olean, New York offers outdoor lovers access to serene river paddling, forest trails, and nearby winter skiing. This quiet town serves as a great basecamp for exploring western New York’s natural beauty across seasons.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Duke Center, Pennsylvania
⌖ 20.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Duke Center, Pennsylvania

Duke Center offers peaceful outdoor adventures with access to forests, creeks, and trails ideal for hiking, paddling, and winter skiing. Perfect for travelers seeking quiet and nature away from crowds.

Late spring through fall for hiking and paddling; winter for cross-country skiing.
Explore Town
Gowanda, New York
⌖ 22.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gowanda, New York

Gowanda, NY, offers paddling along Cattaraugus Creek, hiking rugged trails through Zoar Valley, and vibrant outdoor experiences year-round. This quiet town is a hidden gem for fishing, birdwatching, mountain biking, and winter sports.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in McCarty Hill State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.