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More about McCarthy Hill State Forest (Stueben)...

McCarthy Hill State Forest is a rustic, multi-use public land area spanning 1,508 acres in Steuben County, New York, located within the towns of Addison and Erwin. Managed by the [New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)](https://dec.ny.gov/places/mccarthy-hill-state-forest), the forest is open year-round and is completely free to enter. The area recently doubled in size after absorbing the land from the former Pinnacle State Park golf course, expanding its footprint to provide an even larger natural wildlife habitat and outdoor recreational space. [1, 2, 3, 4]
## 🥾 Trails & Recreation
The forest features approximately 8 miles of designated multi-use trails utilized for seasonal activities. [1]

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* Hiking & Backpacking: The trail system incorporates parts of the Great Eastern Trail and the Crystal Hills Branch of the Finger Lakes Trail system. [1, 2]
* Trail Difficulty: The first half-mile between the main parking areas is very flat and easy for families. However, branching trails vary wildly; the Beaver Pond Trail is highly scenic but prone to spring mud, while the Otter Slide Trail and Bear Trail feature steep, highly uneven terrain recommended strictly for experts. [5, 6]
* Winter Sports: In the winter months, the network transforms into a premier local destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. [1, 5]
* Other Activities: Mountain biking is permitted on trails when there is no snow cover. In accordance with [DEC State Forest Regulations](https://dec.ny.gov/nature/forests-trees/state-forests), public hunting and trapping are allowed during their legally open seasons.

McCarthy Hill emphasizes a backcountry, uncommercialized experience.

* The Lean-To: The McCarthy Hill Lean-To serves as the forest's only officially designated, structured camping site.
* Primitive Camping: Dispersed primitive camping is allowed throughout the forest. Campers must set up at least 150 feet away from any road, trail, or body of water.
* Rules & Permits: Camping is entirely free. However, a permit must be obtained ahead of time from the local DEC forest ranger if you plan to camp in a group of 10 or more people, or if you plan to stay at the same location for more than three consecutive nights.

## 🚗 Access & Amenities
Because it is a wild state forest rather than a developed park, amenities are highly limited. There are no public restrooms, running water, electricity hookups, or trash cans. Visitors must strictly follow Carry-In, Carry-Out principles to keep the environment clean.
Main vehicle access and parking lots can be reached via Pinnacle Road and Ackerson Road just outside the Village of Addison. A specialized trail is also maintained for motorized access by individuals with mobility disabilities; an permit (MAPPWD) can be requested through the regional DEC office in Bath.