Morgan Hill State Forest

Morgan Hill State Forest is a state forest in Onondaga and Cortland Counties that spans thousands of acres across rolling terrain with streams, wetlands, and upland woods. The area features a network of marked trails passing through different forest types and connecting to the broader North Country trail system.

The land once served as hunting grounds for the Iroquois and was later converted to farmland following the Revolutionary War. In the 1930s, reforestation efforts transformed it into a state forest.

The forest shows signs of human care across its trails and clearings, where visitors notice the blend of natural recovery and managed woodland. Walking through the area reveals how local outdoor groups use the trails for seasonal activities and nature study.

The forest is accessible year-round along public roads and trails of varying difficulty levels. Overnight stays are possible in designated camping areas, though advance arrangements and permits may be required during certain seasons.

During the 1930s, workers from the Civilian Conservation Corps planted millions of conifer seedlings across this land, establishing the foundation for the forest visible today. These historical plantings continue to shape the forest's composition and appearance.