DEC Announces State Forest Expansion in Steuben County
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton today announced the transfer to DEC of more than 700 acres located in the village and town of Addison and town of Tuscarora, Steuben County. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) transferred jurisdiction of Pinnacle State Park to DEC. The entire 1,510-acre property will be managed under DEC’s State Forest rules and regulations and continue to focus on rustic experiences, including hiking, primitive camping, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, watchable wildlife, hunting, trapping and responsible forestry practices.
“DEC’s interagency collaboration with State Parks in this land transfer provides New York State residents with expanded access to outdoor recreation in Steuben County,” said Commissioner Lefton. “The former State Park property will be managed as a State Forest and highlights New York’s continued focus on conservation and outdoor recreation opportunities in the Southern Tier and across the state.”
The 716.71-acre Pinnacle State Park will be added to DEC’s McCarthy Hill State Forest, located in the towns of Addison and Erwin, Steuben County. Adjoining DEC’s existing 794-acre State Forest, the former State Park will double the availability of land dedicated to watershed protection, timber production, wildlife conservation, and public recreational use.
State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Kathy Moser said, “We are proud to join our partners at DEC to protect this special landscape for generations to come. Pinnacle and McCarthy Hill are already linked by a trail network, including the Finger Lakes Trail / Great Eastern Trail. Now, this transfer will ensure long-term environmental protection while expanding public access to New York’s incredible natural resources.”
The property is open to public use. Pinnacle State Park offers panoramic views of the southern Finger Lakes. Anglers can fish for bass, bluegill, or bullheads in Levi Pond. The pavilion is open for day use.
Visit DEC’s hunting and trapping regulations for proper planning before going afield. Storing of boats or other items is prohibited on all State Forests. After December 1, 2026 any boat or personal property left on the former Pinnacle State Park property will be removed.
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