Basswood Pond State Forest

Basswood Pond State Forest is a patch of public woodland in Burlington Flats, in Otsego County, with a small pond, hiking trails and a range of outdoor recreation. It’s a quiet place to fish, walk and picnic, not far from the village of Burlington, with the pond as the focal point.

Trout fishing is the most popular draw, and a fishing dock sits on the pond’s southwest corner. The pond site is accessible by a paved path to the water’s edge, and in winter the forest turns to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

What to Know

• Brown trout and rainbow trout are stocked in the pond each year.
• Largemouth bass, pumpkinseed and other warm-water species share the pond.
• A paved path makes the pond site accessible to those with limited mobility.
• Hiking, picnicking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are all options.
• Facilities are basic, with a pit toilet and a fishing dock.