New York has countless state forests sprinkled across the state. Some of these beautiful, unspoiled green spaces have secret allures beyond just the great hiking. State forests like Italy Hill State Forest, which has a small waterfall as well as fantastic camping for those looking to truly get away from it all.
Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn a small commission if you purchase products from our site at no additional cost to you.
Hiking Italy Hill State Forest
One of the big draws of Italy Hill State Forest is the peaceful hiking. In contrast to many other hiking destinations, you are unlikely to run into many other hikers here. This is an excellent place for novice hikers since the trails aren’t overly strenuous. Proper footwear is a must here since the trail can be muddy in spots, especially after it rains.
This is a heavily wooded area, and although it wasn’t exceedingly buggy in June when we visited, I can imagine it would be teeming with mosquitos later in the summer. So you might want to bring bug and tick repellent, just in case.
Waterfall
There is a small waterfall hidden away in Italy Hill State Forest. The falls are only a few feet high and seem to be seasonal. When we visited in June, they were just a trickle. Regardless of their size, the falls are incredibly pretty because of the way the shale forms a chute down the gully.
Backwoods Camping
Camping isn’t for everyone, but if you are an avid camper, this place offers unique camping experiences. However, you’ll have to be willing to forgo the creature comforts of traditional camping. Most New York State Forests allow backwoods camping as long as the campsites are 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Italy Hill State Forest also has a lean-to. Although you aren’t permitted to set up your tent inside the lean-to, it is a nice place to sit out of the element.
Out and About with Nova
This was a fantastic place to take Nova for a hike. Like I said before, this state forest is quiet, and you don’t have to worry about seeing a lot of people. It was gorgeous for most of our hike, and Nova loved it. Unfortunately, we ran into a family with all their dogs off-leash. So there was a harry moment as we tried to lead our dog, who was on a leash, away from the mass of dogs swarming her.
This is not a scolding but an earnest request. This might be an ideal place to let your dogs run loose, but this is dangerous for them (you never know what animals they might run into) and other dogs (you can’t know their reaction to your dog.) So please, please, please… follow the rules and keep your dog on a leash. (and don’t forget to pick up after them and carry the poop to a garbage can (not bagged up on the side of the trail.)
Getting to Italy Hill State Forest
There is a small parking area located on Pulver Rd, in Prattsburgh, NY