Stewart State Forest
Vast state forest offering diverse trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation, with a unique boardwalk through a swamp.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Stewart State Forest
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast state forest offering diverse trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation, with a unique boardwalk through a swamp.
"A sprawling natural escape perfect for biking and hiking, with unique swamp boardwalks and abundant wildlife."
Bug Spray is Your Friend
Swampy areas mean insects! Don't forget your repellent for a more enjoyable experience. :bug:
Download Offline Maps
Trails can be confusing. Ensure you have offline maps downloaded to avoid getting lost. :iphone:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 482 reviews
Type
State Park
Address
Website
dec.ny.gov/lands/50095.htmlHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Great Swamp Boardwalk
Wetlands area
Experience the unique ecosystem of the Great Swamp via elevated walkways. A must-see for nature lovers!
Ridge Road Trail Loop
Ridge Road parking lot
A popular and mostly well-maintained route for biking and hiking, offering a good introduction to the forest's diverse terrain.
Wildlife Encounters
Throughout the forest
Keep an eye out for a variety of amphibians, wildflowers, and spectacular sunrise and sunset views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild (and the Bugs!)
Navigating the Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bug Spray is Your Friend
Swampy areas mean insects! Don't forget your repellent for a more enjoyable experience. :bug:
Download Offline Maps
Trails can be confusing. Ensure you have offline maps downloaded to avoid getting lost. :iphone:
Bike-Friendly Trails
Many trails are great for mountain biking, though some sections can be overgrown. :mountain_bicyclist:
Pack Out What You Pack In
Leave no trace! Limited trash receptacles mean you should carry out all your waste. :wastebasket:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bug Spray is Your Friend
Swampy areas mean insects! Don't forget your repellent for a more enjoyable experience. :bug:
Download Offline Maps
Trails can be confusing. Ensure you have offline maps downloaded to avoid getting lost. :iphone:
Bike-Friendly Trails
Many trails are great for mountain biking, though some sections can be overgrown. :mountain_bicyclist:
Pack Out What You Pack In
Leave no trace! Limited trash receptacles mean you should carry out all your waste. :wastebasket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Stewart State Forest for its vastness and suitability for biking and hiking, with the Great Swamp Boardwalk being a unique highlight. However, some trails can be overgrown, and the presence of insects in swampy areas is a common concern. Navigation can also be tricky for those unfamiliar with the area.
"It was a decent walk. It's a manicured trail mostly. I'd say for bikes would be a great spot. It is swampy so expect insects and smells. Wild flowers all over with tons of amphibians marching around. Enjoy"
Korey Orr
"Almost 7000 acres less than 2 hours from NYC. Plenty of trails, many with low incline. Easy to follow - also easy to get lost. "I know exactly where I am, but how do I get out of here?!" Best for day hikes. No garbage and only porta potty occasionally."
Rebecca Foster-Faith
"Perfect for an intermediate mountain biker. Trails (for the most part) are well maintained and show up on Map my Ride and Google Maps. I say mostly because the trail from Ridge Road to the Great Swamp is completely overgrown with numerous trees blocking the trail making riding a pain (August 2024).
Parking is plentiful during the week."
Kyle O'Brien
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stewart State Forest is located less than two hours from NYC. Driving is the most common method. While public transport options are limited, check local bus routes if you're not driving.
Parking is generally plentiful, especially during weekdays. The Ridge Road parking lot is a popular starting point for many trails and loops.
Yes, there are several access points and parking areas throughout the vast forest, allowing access to different trail networks.
Public transportation options are scarce for reaching Stewart State Forest directly. Driving is highly recommended for ease of access.
Key roads include Ridge Road and New Road, which provide access to various trailheads and parking areas. Maple Avenue is also a notable access point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Stewart State Forest is a state forest and typically does not have an entrance fee for general access. Enjoy the natural beauty for free!
State forests are generally open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check official New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) resources for any specific advisories or seasonal closures.
No special permits are usually required for hiking or biking in Stewart State Forest for recreational purposes. However, hunting and fishing may require appropriate licenses.
Restroom facilities are limited. You may occasionally find porta-potties, but it's best to be prepared to use nature's facilities or plan accordingly.
Parking is on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, to secure a spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Stewart State Forest offers a variety of trails, including paved and gravel paths, wider roads suitable for biking, and more natural, sometimes overgrown, hiking trails.
Yes, it's considered a great spot for intermediate mountain bikers. Many trails are well-maintained and show up on mapping apps, though some can be challenging due to overgrowth.
You can spot numerous amphibians, wildflowers, and other wildlife. It's a fantastic place for nature observation and photography.
While many trails are easy to follow, it's also easy to get lost. Having offline maps or a GPS device is highly recommended for navigation.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for hiking or biking. Given the swampy areas, waterproof or quick-drying footwear is advisable. Dress in layers as weather can change. :athletic_shoe:
📸 📸 Photography
The Great Swamp Boardwalk offers unique wetland scenery. Sunrise and sunset create spectacular light throughout the forest, especially over the open areas.
Stewart State Forest is teeming with amphibians and wildflowers, making it ideal for macro and nature photography. Keep an eye out for birds and other small creatures.
Yes, the variety of trail types, from wide paths to more natural routes, provides diverse photographic opportunities. Capture the scale of the forest or the details of the flora.
Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset offer the best lighting conditions for landscape and wildlife photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a macro lens is perfect for capturing the intricate details of wildflowers and amphibians. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant wildlife. :camerawithflash:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit