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Degrasse State Forest
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DEGRASSE STATE FOREST
DEGRASSE STATE FOREST
Degrasse State Forest, located in northern New York, is a picturesque natural wonderland stretching across St. Lawrence County. Abundant with dense forests, rolling hills, and crystal-clear streams, it offers a serene and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts. The forest is home to an incredibly diverse array of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bears, and various bird species. Visitors can explore its tranquil trails, embark on refreshing hikes, and discover hidden gems like the gorgeous Degrasse Pond. With its captivating beauty and ample recreational opportunities, Degrasse State Forest is an idyllic escape into the heart of nature in New York.
History of the Area
DeGrasse State Forest is located in St. Lawrence County, in the northernmost part of New York State. It was established in 1928 and covers approximately 16,000 acres of land. The forest is named after Dr. William DeGrasse, a noted local physician and conservationist.

The history of DeGrasse State Forest is intertwined with the history of the region, which was originally inhabited by the Native American Iroquois Confederacy. The area later became part of the French and Indian War and American Revolutionary War, witnessing various battles and conflicts.

In the 19th century, the land that now constitutes DeGrasse State Forest was primarily used for logging. The vast stands of white pine and hemlock trees in the area attracted logging companies, who harvested timber for construction and other purposes. The forest's rivers, especially the Oswegatchie River, were utilized to transport the logs downstream.

As the logging industry declined towards the end of the 19th century, the state of New York recognized the importance of preserving the remaining wilderness areas. In 1928, DeGrasse State Forest was established as one of the first state forests in New York. Its primary purpose was to protect and manage the land for sustainable forestry practices, wildlife habitat conservation, and recreation.

DeGrasse State Forest has been managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The forest has undergone various management practices, including selective logging, reforestation efforts, and the establishment of recreational facilities.

DeGrasse State Forest remains an important forested area in northern New York. It offers visitors opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, hunting, and fishing. The forest is also home to diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, and numerous bird species.
Camping
Degrasse State Forest in New York is a public forest reserve that offers various recreational activities. However, it doesn't have designated campgrounds or campsites within the forest itself.

1. Primitive Camping: You can do primitive camping anywhere as long as you follow state land use rules and regulations (like staying at least 150 feet away from water bodies, roads etc.). No permits are required unless you're planning to stay for more than three nights.

2. Nearby Campgrounds:.
- Higley Flow State Park: It's about an hour drive west of Degrasse State Forest and has over 100 wooded campsites with amenities like picnic tables, fire pits/grills, restrooms & showers.

- Cranberry Lake Campground: This campground lies east of DeGrasse SF and provides sites for tenting along with RV hookups including electricity supply.

3. Private Options:.
There might be private lands nearby offering cabin rentals or other types of accommodations which could serve your purpose if looking for something more comfortable compared to primitive camping.
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Trails
1. Bear Mountain Loop: This is a moderately challenging trail that stretches approximately 4 miles, offering stunning views of the forest and surrounding mountains.

2. Degrasse River Trail: A relatively easy hike along the river's edge for about 3 miles with opportunities to spot wildlife like deer or beavers.

3. High Falls Gorge Pathway: This pathway leads hikers through dense woodland towards an impressive waterfall which can be viewed from various angles via several viewing platforms installed around it; this trail spans roughly two-and-a-half miles in length.

4. Pine Pond Circuit Track: An intermediate-level hiking route covering nearly six-miles round trip, featuring serene pine forests and beautiful pond vistas perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts.

5. Tooley Pond Mountain Route: It's a strenuous uphill climb but rewards you with panoramic views at its summit after traversing over four-mile long path.

6. Grass Lake Overlook Trek: Approximately three mile-long track leading up to scenic overlooks providing breathtaking sights of Grass lake amidst lush greenery.

7. Silver Hill Climb: Short yet steep one-mile trek taking you atop Silver hill, ideal choice if looking forward short duration hikes within Degrass State Forest.

8. Alder Bed Marsh Walk: Easy level walk suitable even for beginners stretching just under two-miles showcasing diverse flora fauna including marshy wetlands area.

9. Five Ponds Wilderness Area Trails: These are series trails varying lengths difficulty levels running across wilderness region allowing exploration remote areas rich biodiversity.

10. Cranberry Lake Wild Forest Paths: Network interconnected paths spanning large portion state forest giving opportunity explore vast landscapes ranging hardwood forests pristine lakeshores Cranberry lake wild forest section.

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Directions
1. Start by heading north on Interstate 81.
2. Take exit 48 for NY-342 toward Watertown/Philadelphia/Fort Drum.
3. Turn left onto NY-342 W and continue to follow this road for approximately 10 miles.
4. At the roundabout, take the second exit onto US-11 N/Washington St/Main St/Old Rome Rd.
5. Continue straight on US-11 N for about 15 miles until you reach De Kalb Junction Road (County Route 17).
6.Turn right onto De Kalb Junction Road and drive for around half a mile before turning left into County Route 19/Degrasse Russell Road.

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New York
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New York State Parks

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