CNY Hiking HOME PAGE Camillus Forest Loop Hiking in Onondaga County
Hiking in Onondaga County
New York State Lands


Camillus
Forest

 

Located in the town of Camillus, just outside of the small village of Amboy and near the Old Erie Canal Trail, Camillus Forest Unique Area might be overlooked at only 355 acres; but it's worth a visit. There is an old parking area off NY 173, however the DEC has built a newer, better parking area off Thompson Road. Dogs are welcomed on a leash.

Camillus Forest Unique Area was purchased by New York State in 1926.  It was administered by the Syracuse Developmental Center until March 1997 when Governor George Pataki transferred stewardship to the NY DEC.

Although this is a "forest" there are 145 acres of open fields, which creates some very surprising views. Check the link below the map below for a suggested loop hike within this truly unique area (Camillus Forest Loop).  Try to go on a clear day and you will be able to see points as far away as Lake Ontario, Oneida Lake, Tug Hill region, NY State Fair, Brighton Towers, and the Mohawk Valley area.

We found a well worn path at the far western and northern end of the area boundary that wound back toward the old parking area within the woods.  Check the topo map below for more info on this path, which we have called the "Forest Trail". This is a place we definitely recommend exploring.

DIRECTIONS:  NY 173 to Thompson Rd.  Parking area is on the right. The GPS coordinates are N43 04.183 W76 16.630.

Old farm equipment along the trail

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