Red Brook State Forest

Discover

Red Brook State Forest, located in the Town of German in Chenango County, New York, spans 601 acres of diverse terrain. Named after Red Brook and its tributaries, the forest also features Strong's Brook, which flows through its eastern section. Both streams eventually feed into Genegantslet Creek. The forest's elevation ranges from 1,300 feet along Strong's Brook to 1,592 feet at a peak between Ridge Road and Hollow Road.

The forest's vegetation is a mix of northern hardwoods and conifers, with over half of the area planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the late 1930s. These plantings include red pine, Norway spruce, and larch. Eastern hemlock, a native conifer, naturally thrives here and is particularly prominent along the stream corridors. This blend of natural and planted forest creates a unique ecological environment, supporting both wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Wildlife is abundant in Red Brook State Forest, with mammals such as deer, raccoons, squirrels, and porcupines commonly observed. The forest provides an ideal habitat for deer, which are especially numerous in the Town of German. The mix of forest cover and water sources like Red Brook and Strong's Brook contributes to the area's biodiversity, making it a noteworthy location for wildlife observation and ecological studies.

While there are no formal trails in Red Brook State Forest, visitors are free to hike anywhere that is not otherwise restricted. The terrain varies from well-drained to poorly-drained areas, so hikers should be prepared for wet ground in some sections. The lack of designated trails offers an opportunity for more adventurous exploration, allowing visitors to experience the forest's natural features up close and at their own pace.

A small historic cemetery is located within the forest, just off the east side of Ridge Road. Some of the gravestones still bear legible inscriptions, offering a glimpse into the area's past. This site adds a cultural and historical dimension to the forest, connecting visitors to the human history intertwined with the natural landscape. It serves as a quiet reminder of the lives once lived in this rural region.

Access to Red Brook State Forest is primarily via County Route 2, with additional parking options on nearby side roads such as Willet Line Road, Cross Road, and Hollow Road. The forest is bordered by private lands and agricultural areas, so visitors should remain mindful of property boundaries. Its location near the hamlets of McDonough and Smithville Flats makes it a convenient destination for those exploring Chenango County.

The forest is managed in accordance with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Five Streams Unit Management Plan. This plan outlines objectives for recreation, conservation, and habitat management across Red Brook, Five Streams, and Balsam Swamp State Forests. The forest's management reflects a balance between preserving its natural features and providing opportunities for public enjoyment and education.

Red Brook State Forest's scenic beauty is enhanced by its stream corridors and diverse tree species. The combination of hardwoods and conifers, along with the flowing waters of Red Brook and Strong's Brook, creates picturesque settings for photography and nature appreciation. These natural elements, along with the forest's historical and ecological significance, make it a compelling destination for those seeking a tranquil outdoor experience.

Fun facts

1. Over 50% of Red Brook State Forest was planted with conifer species by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the late 1930s.
2. The forest is named after Red Brook, a stream that flows through its western portion.
3. Eastern hemlock occurs naturally on the forest and is found along the stream corridors of Strong's Brook and Red Brook.
4. The highest elevation in the forest reaches 1,592 feet, offering varied terrain.
5. A historic cemetery within the forest has some gravestones with visible inscriptions.

Read the official sources →

Capture

1. Capture the scenic stream corridors of Red Brook and Strong's Brook, especially where the water reflects the surrounding trees.
2. Photograph the historic cemetery, focusing on the details of the gravestone inscriptions and their natural surroundings.
3. Highlight the contrast between the planted conifers and native hardwoods for a unique forest composition.

Social

Explore the diverse landscapes of Red Brook State Forest, where streams and forests meet. #Cre8Travel #RedBrookStateForest

Discover the legacy of the CCC in Red Brook State Forest, with over 50% of its trees planted in the 1930s. #Cre8Travel

Wildlife such as deer, raccoons, squirrels, and porcupines are common in Red Brook State Forest. #Cre8Travel #Wildlife

Visit the historic cemetery in Red Brook State Forest, where some gravestones still bear legible inscriptions. #Cre8Travel #History

Hiking is allowed anywhere in Red Brook State Forest, except where posted otherwise. #Cre8Travel #Hiking

Capture the beauty of Red Brook and Strong's Brook, two streams defining this forest's charm. #Cre8Travel #Nature

Eastern hemlock occurs naturally along the stream corridors of Red Brook and Strong's Brook in Red Brook State Forest. #Cre8Travel

Plan your visit to Red Brook State Forest, located in the Town of German, Chenango County. #Cre8Travel #OutdoorAdventures

Hashtags

1. #Cre8Travel
2. #RedBrookStateForest
3. #Nature
4. #Hiking
5. #Wildlife
6. #History
7. #Photography

Sources & visitor information

• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation — Red Brook State Forest