Windfall Creek State Forest

Discover

Windfall Creek State Forest spans 968 acres across the towns of Carrollton and Great Valley in Cattaraugus County, New York. Managed by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the forest serves multiple purposes, including recreation, wildlife habitat preservation, watershed protection, and timber production. Its diverse landscape includes conifer plantations established in the 1930s and natural habitats that support various wildlife species. This state forest is part of Wildlife Management Unit 9T, contributing to regional conservation efforts.

The history of Windfall Creek State Forest is deeply intertwined with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) of the 1930s. During the Great Depression, young men employed by the CCC constructed roads and planted thousands of pine, larch, and spruce trees across the property. These efforts transformed former farmland into thriving forest ecosystems. Remnants of this history, such as old house foundations and rock walls, can still be found throughout the area, offering a glimpse into its agricultural past.

The forest is home to Twin Ponds in its southern region, where fishing is allowed. Streams within the forest also provide opportunities for anglers seeking a quiet retreat. While Twin Ponds features a picnic area, visitors should note that the parking lot is not plowed during winter months, potentially affecting access. The ponds and streams in the forest allow fishing and support aquatic life.

Windfall Creek State Forest is accessible via several routes. From Olean, visitors can take Route 417 west and turn onto North Nine Mile Road, which leads to the nearby Nine Mile State Forest. Alternatively, Thorpe Hollow Road and Windfall Road provide direct access to Windfall Creek State Forest. The Twin Ponds area can be reached from Windfall Road, with coordinates provided for precise navigation. These routes offer a scenic drive through the rolling terrain of Cattaraugus County.

The DEC has developed a Draft Cattaraugus Unit State Forests Unit Management Plan (UMP) for these lands. This comprehensive document outlines the natural features, geology, habitats, and recreational infrastructure of the area. It also details proposed activities to maintain and enhance the forest's ecological health. Public input on the UMP is encouraged, ensuring community involvement in the stewardship of this valuable natural resource.

Timber management is a significant aspect of Windfall Creek State Forest's operations. The conifer stands, including pine, larch, and spruce, were strategically planted in open fields to maximize sunlight exposure, promoting their growth. These trees serve as a renewable resource for New York's forest products industry, supporting local employment and economic activity. Sustainable forestry practices ensure that the forest continues to thrive while providing materials for various industries.

Remnants of historical structures within Windfall Creek State Forest tell a story of its past. Evidence of a water-powered sawmill north of Thorpe Hollow Road and old farm fields with rock walls highlight the area's transformation over time. These features serve as a testament to the land's agricultural roots before becoming state-owned. The historical remnants, such as house foundations and rock walls, reflect the region's agricultural past before it became a state forest.

Windfall Creek State Forest offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The forest's diverse habitats, including conifer plantations and aquatic ecosystems, support a variety of wildlife and recreational activities. Its rich history, from CCC projects to evidence of early farming, provides an educational experience for visitors. Managed sustainably by the DEC, the forest continues to balance conservation, recreation, and economic needs, making it a valuable asset to the region.

Fun facts

1. The Civilian Conservation Corps planted thousands of pine, larch, and spruce trees at Windfall Creek State Forest in the 1930s.
2. Fishing is allowed at Twin Ponds in the southern part of Windfall Creek State Forest.
3. A water-powered sawmill was historically located north of Thorpe Hollow Road in the forest.
4. Rock walls and old house foundations hint at the forest's agricultural past.
5. Windfall Creek State Forest is part of Wildlife Management Unit 9T.

Read the official sources →

Capture

1. Capture the serene beauty of Twin Ponds during early morning or late afternoon for soft lighting and reflections.
2. Photograph the historic rock walls and house foundations to document the forest's agricultural past.
3. Focus on the conifer plantations for striking patterns and textures, especially in the golden hours.

Social

Explore 968 acres of natural beauty and history at Windfall Creek State Forest in Cattaraugus County, NY. #Cre8Travel

Did you know? Windfall Creek State Forest was transformed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. #Cre8Travel

Fishing is allowed at Twin Ponds in Windfall Creek State Forest. #Cre8Travel

Learn about the history of a water-powered sawmill and old rock walls at Windfall Creek State Forest. #Cre8Travel

Windfall Creek State Forest offers diverse habitats for wildlife and recreational opportunities year-round. #Cre8Travel

Access Twin Ponds via Windfall Road. Note: winter parking is unplowed. #Cre8Travel

Learn about sustainable forestry practices at Windfall Creek State Forest, supporting local industries. #Cre8Travel

Take a scenic drive through Cattaraugus County to reach Windfall Creek State Forest. #Cre8Travel

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1. #Cre8Travel
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6. #HistoricalLandscapes

Sources & visitor information

• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation — Windfall Creek State Forest