Neversink-Willowemoc Creek Forest Road

The Neversink-Willowemoc Creek Forest Road cuts through Sullivan County’s forgotten logging territory, where massive hemlocks still shade the old skid roads. This 18-mile network starts near Claryville and winds north through state forest land, crossing multiple tributaries of the legendary Willowemoc Creek—water that taught generations of fly fishermen their trade. The route threads between private hunting camps and public land, with the challenging Rock Rift section demanding high clearance as you navigate between house-sized boulders left by glacial retreat.

Moderate difficulty requires stock 4WD with decent ground clearance for the rockier sections, though most passenger cars handle the main forest road fine in dry conditions. Spring and fall offer the best travel, avoiding both black fly season and hunting pressure. No permits needed for the state sections, but respect private land boundaries. The payoff comes in solitude—miles of hardwood ridges and pristine creek valleys where you might spot the occasional black bear or wild turkey. Dispersed camping available on state land with standard fire restrictions.