Summer Hill State Forest

New York State Forests

Welcome to New York's Summer Hill State Forest located in the highlands of Cayuga County. Like many of New York's State Forest the land in this region had it's first European settlers arrive in the late 18th century, in fact Nathaniel Fillmore, father of President Millard Fillmore, was one of the first settlers of Summer Hill. In the 1930's, during the Great Depression Era, the New York Legislature passed amendments to the Conservation Law allowing the State to purchase land outside of Catskill and Adirondack Parks. Most of the land that is now Summer Hill State Forest was purchased during that time. Legend says that the forest get's it's name because it's a place where people steer clear during the winter but flock to during the summer for a break from the heat. Today people come here year round to enjoy the forest's multipurpose trails for all seasons, hunting opportunities, and more.

Wildlife: Summer Hill State Forest provides habitat for many wild creatures including 23 species of ambhibians, 51 species of mammals, 20 species of reptiles and 126 species of birds. Some of these include white-tailed deer, red-tailed hawks, squirrels, raccoons, foxes, and wild turkeys. Please treat their home with respect when visiting.

New York State Law requires that when visiting any State Forest you must;

*Never move firewood! Doing so helps spread pests and diseases.

*No littering! Please carry out whatever you carry in.

*Never leave fires unattended. Please extenguish all fires upon your departure.

*Unless otherwise designated, all camping must be done with 150 feet of roads, trails, and bodies of water. Camping more than 3 consecutive nights requires special permit that can be obtained from the local forest ranger.

*All human excrement must be buried in holes no less than 6 inches deep.

*All motor vehicles must stay in designated areas.

*No building of structures or cutting of vegetation.

Please respect these laws and New York's forests.