Rock City State Forest – Mansfield, NY | Adventures in New York
Rock City State Forest

New York boasts several “Rock City” parks, but Rock City State Forest is undoubtedly my favorite because it resembles something out of a fantasy movie. This destination should definitely be on your must-visit list. The aptly named Rock City State Forest is famous for its massive formations of conglomerate rock outcroppings. These enormous rocks feature incredible caves and crevices that visitors can explore, all set within an enchanting, primitive-looking forest. What truly sets this place apart from the other “Rock Cities” is the intricate, labyrinth-like passages that adventurers can discover.

Rock City State Forest

Giant Rock Outcroppings

Rock City State Forest

This destination is my favorite among the Giant Conglomerate Rocks, and here’s why: First, it’s rarely crowded. During our visit, we practically had the place to ourselves, and as we ventured further down the trail, we encountered no other visitors. Second, it was free—who doesn’t love that? Third, since this spot is located in a state forest rather than a commercial area, we had the freedom to climb the rocks and explore the crevices. However, since we were in a remote location, we needed to be cautious. Getting injured in the middle of the forest, especially further down the trail, could be quite serious.

Please note: If you decide to climb the rocks, you do so at your own risk. We do not encourage people to climb the falls and put their physical safety at risk. 

Rock City State Forest is absolutely stunning, with incredible rock formations that truly inspire exploration. The trails lead to a large group of rocks that had tons of narrow passages that create a labyrinth-like experience. This was one of the coolest experiences I have ever had in New York.

We quite literally spent hours exploring this place because it’s huge. The Little Rock City Nature Trail is less than a mile (0.7 miles), but it is part of a much bigger trail system, the Rock City and McCarthy Hill Loop, which is 22 miles. This trail has several branches, so you don’t have to hike the entire 22 miles. You will pass the Rim, Bent Rim, Tornado Pass, and Billygoat Trails Loop trailhead on your way into the forest, but proceed all the way to the end of the road to get to the very part of Rock City.

Camping

Rock City State Forest

There are 4 designated tent campsites close to the Rock City Parking area. There have picnic shelters and fire pits. Primitive camping is allowed throughout the State Forest, but the campsites must be at least 150 feet from the road, trails, and bodies of water. There is no running water and campers must carry their trash out with them. If you plan to camp for more than 3 days, you will need to acquire a permit from a forest ranger. This area is known for bear activity. Make sure that you properly store your food as not to attract them.

Rock City State Forest

Know Before You Go

This place is remote, but we had limited cell service. This was a vast improvement over our previous visit, when we had absolutely no cell service at all, and our GPS cut out when we turned off the highway. Make sure that you have already used the bathroom and have plenty of water when you head to Rock City State Forest. You might want to even consider bringing snacks as well.

Rock City State Forest

I would not recommend bringing small children to this forest unless they are sure on their feet and old enough to follow directions. These rocks are pretty tall, and there are places where they can fall a substantial distance.

Rock City State Forest

The temperature in and around the rocks is dramatically lower. On a hot day, it feels great but on a less than hot day it can be chilly. This location was also a little bit buggy in the Summer. On our first visit, the horseflies were out in force. You will want to bring a good insect repellent.

We visited again in the Fall and we didn’t have a problem with the bugs at all. However, we encountered a different issue, mud. Wear boots.The ground in the passages doesn’t truly get any sunlight so the ground can remain soggy for quiet sometime after it rains. And if there has been a lot of rain, it can be muddy. My boot almost got claimed by a patch of mud that I stepped in that wasn’t obvious because it was covered in fallen leaves.

Getting to Rock City State Forest

Rock City State Forest

Google Map Link

The final portion of the drive is on a dirt road for at least three miles. You will want to drive to the end of the road; it ends in a parking circle.

Have you visited Rock City State Forest before? Which giant conglomerate rock formation destination is your favorite? We would love to hear from you. Please leave us a comment below.

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1 Comment

  1. “pride rock” is my favorite

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