Since the European settlement of the region in the 1870's, the area has been owned by a number of timber companies. The logging roads then and now, provide access to wonderful hunting grounds and fishing and trapping waters.

Each of the three access areas offers at least one large pond including Greggs Lake, Green Pond, Mud Pond and French Ponds. Greggs Lake, Mud Pond, French Ponds and Sand Pond support brook trout. Bullheads are caught in Mud Pond, Sand Pond and French Ponds. Panfish may be caught in Mud Pond and Sand Pond.

Viewing wildlife while traveling to these various ponds or while paddling the waters frequently affords sights of white-tailed deer, black bear, fox, coyote, fisher and a variety of upland birds ranging from ruffed grouse to wild turkey. Thriving along the shorelines are muskrat, mink, otter, beaver and raccoon. Soaring overhead you might experience sights of the American bald eagle and a large variety of perching birds.

Camping is permitted on designated 4.5 inch yellow-marked sites. Camping permits must be obtained for groups 10 and larger and for those folks staying at one site for more than three consecutive nights. Permits may be obtained by calling the Forest Ranger at 315-346-1040 or 315-376-3521.

Snowmobile routes include lands between Soft Maple Reservoir and Sand Pond; Long Pond Road up to Deer Pond, Trout Pond and Rock Pond; and from Long Pond south crossing Prentice Road to Fish Creek.

Directions from Croghan, NY: Take SR 812 to Belfort Road. In Belfort, turn right (east) onto Long Pond Road. There are several access points:Westerly Section - From Long Pond Road travel to the West Branch of the Oswegatchie River. A trail accesses Mud Pond. OR continue on Long Pond Road and turn off on Prentice Road, After crossing the Adirondack Park Boundary, lands are on the north side of the road.Central Section - From Long Pond Road travel to Prentice Road following it to the intersection with the Champion Main Haul Road. Turn onto this road and follow signs to the intersection with Jakes Pond Road. Jakes Pond Road and Sand Pond Road provides further access.Easterly Section - (4-wheel drive recommended) Take Long Pond Road to the end at Bergens Clearing. Cross the parking lot and proceed up Bear Pond Road. Turn south on Tied Lake Road to the parking area. Motor vehicles prohibited beyond this point.

Seasonal Information:
Normally Open: Spring through Fall (NOTE: No seasonal use restrictions.) .