Black River - Visitor Guide - Online

N e w Y o r k

22
A mix of unspoiled beauty, rapid
whitewater and rich history make the
Black River a recreation dream.
Long thought of as an industrial river thanks to its
turn-of-the-century heyday, the Black River has been
redefined by paddlers, birdwatchers and anglers as
an outdoor playground offering more experiences
than any 10 waterways combined. With its three
distinctly different flows, the Black River serves casual
vacationers, adventurers and adrenaline junkies with
room to spare.
Starting in the lower Adirondack Mountains near
Forestport and Boonville, the Black River flows 114
miles northwest to the mighty Lake Ontario. From its
origins, the wild river snakes into the lowlands, along
the way becoming the place fly fishing anglers see in
their dreams. Nature watchers discover an abundance
of mallards, cardinals, deer and more.
The Black River slows as it flows along the edge of the
Tug Hill region – an outdoor paradise in itself! From
Port Leyden to Carthage, it’s obvious why the river’s
slow, steady currents attracted lumber companies
and mills in the 1800s. Today paddlers can still see the
old dams and catwalks. More than a dozen waterfront
communities still keep an eye on the Black, opening
their doors to visitors and sharing stories of their
secret playground. These communities still celebrate
their factory heritage and respect their Black River
lifeblood. They ask that you do too!

From Carthage, the Black
River heads west through mill
communities and the city of
Watertown, where whitewater is
king and rafting companies offer
the East Coast’s greatest paddling
adventures. Watertown is popular
with whitewater kayakers, who
flock to Northern New York’s urban
hub to play on its natural waves.
World kayaking championships
are held on the Black River’s
raging waters…for good reason.
Those preferring to keep their feet
on dry land have prime riverside
perches from which to watch
these exciting events.
The Black cascades its way out
of Watertown through a cluster
of canyons, then communities
with scores of public fishing
access, boat launches, trails and
observation areas before raging
into Black River Bay and Lake
Ontario.
With so much to offer, the Black
River is heading for another
heyday, as a recreational paradise.
Help rediscover New York’s newest
outdoor playground!
Contents
Map
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4-5
Lodging
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 6
Events & Festivals
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 10
Winter &
Motorsports Fun
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12
White
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 14
Still
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 20
Wild
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 26
This brochure was prepared for the Town of Martinsburg and the New York State
Department of State with funds provided under Title 11 of the Environmental
Protection Fund
Every effort was made to print accurate information. The 1000 Islands International
Tourism Council, its partners and contractors will assume no liability for damages
arising from errors or omissions in this publication.

44
The Black River
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342
342
Calcium
342
283
Fort
Drum
283
342
3
26
3
Black River
3
3
Deferiet
26
Great Bend
126
3
126
26
3
Carthage
126
West
Carthage
26
26
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126
410
Castorl
410
180
12
26
3
126
180
180
brownville
12E
12E
dexter
3
12
12E
3
283
3
126
12
12
WATERTOWN
11
12
12
12
Copenhagen
12
12
180
Black
River
Bay
180
3
11
3
11
Adams
Center
11
Maps designed to locate features. Do not use for navigation.
Photos for this publication taken by Sarah Ellen Smith, who began shooting and developing
photos with a brownie camera along the Black River and Lake Ontario in her childhood. She
has traveled the world taking images for individuals and organizations. She worked in photo
processing for Sports Illustrated during the pre-digital era and continues to see the world through
the lens of a camera. She may be contacted at sarahellensmithartist@gmail.com and some of her
images can be seen on FaceBook as Sarah Ellen Smith Artist. Other images are property of 1000
Islands International Tourism Council, Lewis County Chamber of Commerce and Oneida County
Convention and Visitors Bureau, or used with permission.

12
410
rland
126
26
12
126
812
812
812
Lowville
West
Martinsburg
26
12
EAST
Martinsburg
12
TUG HILL
white.
Dexter - Carthage
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pages 14-19
still.
Castorland - Port Leyden
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pages 20-25
wild.
Boonville - Forestport
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 26-31
12
26
26
12
Lyons Falls
Turin
26
Port
LeydEn
12
Everyone can enjoy the Black River.
Please observe these recommendations to ensure that your visit is a safe and enjoyable one:
• Paddlers should always wear a lifejacket and travel in parties.
• Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.
• Scout water routes and trails for hazards before departing and be alert during your trip.
• Wear appropriate specialized gear such as whitewater and snowmobile helmets and hiking boots.
• Be aware of potential changes in water level. The Black River water level is regulated by hydroelectric dams and can
quickly change.
• Do not approach wild animals, including those that appear distressed.
Responsible visiting
• Dispose of waste properly.
• Clean equipment before and after your visit to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Properly extinguish campfires.
• Ride ATVs and snowmobiles on sturdy surfaces to avoid ground damage and injury.
• Observe private property warnings.
26
12
Boonville
ForestPORT

66
Lodging
Jefferson
County
Hotels & Motels
Allen’s Budget Motel
24019 Rt. 342,
Watertown
315-782-5319
Best Western Carriage House
Inn & Conf. Center
300 Washington St.,
Watertown
315-782-8000
www.bestwestern.com
Davidson’s Motel
26177 Rt. 3,
Watertown
315-782-3861
www.davidsons-motel.com
Days Inn Watertown/
Fort Drum
110 Commerce Park Dr.,
Watertown
315-782-2700
www.the.daysinn.com/watertown06630
Hampton Inn
155 Commerce Park Dr.,
Watertown
315-782-2222
www.hamptoninn.com
Herrings Inn
35802 Rt. 3,
Carthage
315-493-9829
www.herringsinn.com
Holiday Inn Express
Hotel & Suites
1290 Arsenal St.,
Watertown
315-779-1234
www.hiexpress.com/watertownny
Microtel Inn
8000 Virginia Smith Dr.,
Calcium
315-629-5000
Ontario Place Hotel
103 General Smith Dr.,
Sackets Harbor
315-646-8000
www.ontarioplacehotel.com
Rainbow Motel
24480 Rt. 12,
Watertown
315-788-2830
Ramada
6300 Arsenal St.,
Watertown
315-788-0700
www.ramada.com
Royal Inn Motel
25791 Rt. 37,
Watertown
315-788-2910
Sackets Harbor Lodging
Rt. 3,
Sackets Harbor
315-783-6460
www.sacketsharborlodging.com
The Inn @ 81
1190 Arsenal St.,
Watertown
315-788-6800
Travelodge
652 Arsenal St.,
Watertown
315-786-8888
www.travelodgewatertownny.com
Watertown Budget Inn
19226 Rt. 11,
Watertown
315-782-9619
www.watertownbudgetinn.com
Watertown Econo Lodge
1030 Arsenal St.,
Watertown
315-782-5500
www.choicehotels.com
Bed & Breakfasts
1808 Sarah Beth Guest House
106 W. Main St.
Sackets Harbor
315-778-1444
www.sarahbethguesthouse.com
Candlelight B&B
501 W. Washington St.,
Sackets Harbor
315-646-1418
www.imcnet.net/candlelight
Dexter 1855 House
414 Brown St.
Dexter
315-639-6336
www.dexter1855house.com
Grand View B&B
32579 Rt. 26,
Great Bend
315-493-1089
www.geocities.com/greatbend/
grandview.html
Honeyville Manor
14245 Fuller Rd.
Adams Center
315-583-5597
www.honeyvillemanor.com
Jacob Brewster House B&B
107 S. Broad St.,
Sackets Harbor
315-646-4663
www.jacobbrewsterbandb.com

Sackets Harbor B&B
411 W. Main St.,
Sackets Harbor
315-408-8633
www.sacketsharborbandb.com
Woolsey Manor
206 E. Main St.
Sackets Harbor
315-646-3345
www.woolseymanor.com
Camping
Bedford Creek Golf Course,
Marina & Campground
16750 Allen Dr.,
Sackets Harbor
315-646-3400
315-646-2486
www.bedfordcreek.com
Black River Bay Campground
16129 Foster Park Rd.,
Dexter
315-639-3735
Black Water Campground
1605 Huntington St.,
Watertown
315-782-0705
www.blackwaterdevelopment.com
Kitto’s Marina
23177 Kitto Marina Dr.,
Pillar Pt., Dexter
315-639-6043
Westcott Beach State Park
12224 Rt. 3,
Sackets Harbor
315-646-2239
www.nysparks.com
Lewis
County
Hotels & Motels
The Edge Hotel
3952 Rt. 12,
Lyons Falls
315-348-4211
www.theedgehotel.com
Flat Rock Inn
Flat Rock Rd.,
Lowville
315-376-2332
www.flatrockinn.com
High Market Inn
4441 Highmarket Rd.,
Constableville
315-397-2216
www.highmarketsports.com
Horn’s Towpath Inn
4217 West Rd.,
Turin
315-348-8122
www.towpathinn.com
Le-Hav Motel
7717 Rt.12,
Lowville
315-376-2721
Lighthouse
Restaurant & Motel
7392 Utica Blvd.,
Lowville
315-376-2931
www.lighthouserestaurantandmotel.com
The Limberlost
4067 Page Rd.,
Constableville
315-397-2790
The Mansion
4036 Lyons Falls Rd.,
Lyons Falls
315-346-6720
Montague Inn
6765 Sears Pond Rd.,
Lowville
315-376-2078
www.montague-inn.com
The Old Church Inn
5560 Rt.26,
Turin
315-376-8423
www.oldchurchinn.com
Ridge View
Motor Lodge, Inc.
7491 Rt.12,
Lowville
315-376-2252
www.ridge-view.com
Tug Hill Sports Lodge
1539 Pinckney Rd.,
Copenhagen
(570) 784-0111
www.tughillsportslodge.com
West Wind
Motel & Townhouses
4725 Rt. 26,
Turin
315-348-6856
www.westwindmotelurinny.com
Bed & Breakfasts
Alger Place Bed & Breakfast
5549 Alger Rd.,
Martinsburg
315-376-3734
www.algerplace.com
Allegro Guest House
7303 E. Main St.,
Port Leyden
315-348-6866
www.allegroguesthouse.com
Apple Hill Farm
Tug Hill Plateau,
West Turin
(201) 337-6677

88
Lodging
The Butterscotch House B&B
5449 Trinity Ave.,
Lowville
315-376-3882
www.butterscotchhouse.com
The Golden Shamrock B&B
6205 Blue St.,
Glenfield
315-376-6689
www.thegoldenshamrock.com
Hidden Comfort B&B
11733 Jerden Falls Rd.,
Croghan
315-346-6745
www.hiddencomfortbb.com
Jantzi B&B
6415 Rt.26,
Lowville
315-376-2660
The Victoria Guest House
7700 N. State St.,
Lowville
315-376-8502
ZehrCroft B&B
5490 River St.,
Lowville
315-376-8070
Cabins & Cottages
Aspen Knoll Cabins
3950 Rector Rd.,
Lowville
315-376-6590
www.aspenknollcabins.com
Beaver Creek Lodge
Co. Rt. 194,
Copenhagen
(518) 872-1657
Beaver Point Lodge
Soft Maple Lake,
Croghan
(585) 377-7913
www.beaverpointlodge.com
Camp O.U.T.T.
8270 Soft Maple Rd.,
Croghan
315-346-6805
www.campoutt.com
Camp Vinette
McPhilmy Rd. & Number Four Rd.,
Lowville
315-698-2547
www.campvinette.com
Feihof Lodge
6153 W. Main St.,
Turin
315-348-8810
Forest Pond Cottage
8994 Number Four Rd.,
Lowville
315-376-4433
www.forestpondcottage.com
Highmarket Blue Silos Farm
4883 Highmarket Rd.,
Lowville
315-397-2777
House on the Hill
Rector Rd.,
Lowville
315-376-2873
www.tughillrentals.com
Lakefront Getaway Cottages
Beaver Lake, Number Four Rd.,
Lowville
315-376-2320
Long Point Cottages
Brantingham Lake,
Brantingham
(607) 432-4258
Morgan’s Lakefront Cabin
Northshore Rd.,
Brantingham
315-734-9055
Otter Creek Lodge
5560 Rt.26,
Turin
315-376-8423
www.ottercreeklodge.com
Pioneer Lodge
6435 E. Main St.,
Turin
315-348-8649
www.pioneerlodgeturin.com
Timberview Lodge, Inc.
Carpenter Rd.,
Turin
315-348-8400
www.timberview.com
Tug Hill Inn
6253 Salmon River Rd.,
Lowville
315-376-4299
Twin Cottages
Brantingham Lake,
Brantingham
315-858-9090
Winteridge Lodge
7089 McLane Rd.,
Lowville
315-363-5770
www.winteridgefarm.com
Camping
Babcock Campgrounds
10370 East Rd.,
Lowville
315-408-6861
Cold Brook Campsites, Inc.
7301 Moose River Rd.,
Port Leyden
315-348-6339

Flat Rock Campgrounds
Flat Rock Rd.,
Lowville
315-376-2332
www.snowmobilingusa.com/Flat_
Rock_Inn.htm
Happy Hollow Campground
4531 Rt. 410,
Lowville
315-376-4345
Tuggers Grill,
Bar & Camprounds
544 Rt. 177,
Copenhagen
315-688-2627
www.tuggersny.com
Stillwater
2591 Stillwater Rd.,
Lowville
315-376-6470
www.stillwateradirondacks.com
Whetstone Gulf State Park
West Rd.,
Lowville
315-376-6630
www.nysparks.com
Whittaker Park
Whittaker Rd.,
Lowville
315-376-7602
Camp O.U.T.T.
8270 Soft Maple Rd.,
Croghan
315-346-6805
www.campoutt.com
Oneida
County
Hotels & Motels
Boonville Hotel
103 Water St.,
Boonville
315-942-2124
Headwaters Motor Lodge
13524 Rt. 12,
Boonville
315-942-4493
www.headwatersmotorlodge.com
Swing Inn
9336 Rt. 12,
Remsen
315-831-5315
www.swinginnmotel.com
White Lake Lodges
12973 Rt. 28,
Forestport
315-392-3493
www.whitelakelodges.com
Bed & Breakfasts
Alder Creek Golf Course &
Country Inn
11333 Rt. 12,
Alder Creek
315-831-5222
www.aldercreekgolfcourse.com
B&B at Northlands
2606 Edmonds Rd.,
Boonville
315-942-5126
Bear Inn the Woods B&B
10323 Dustin Rd.,
Remsen
315-831-2347
www.bearinnthewoodsbb.com
Devins Lodging
211 Post St.,
Boonville
315-942-5906
Hulbert House B&B
106 Main St.,
Boonville
315-942-4318
www.hulberthouse.com
North Country Manor
Bed & Breakfast
4173 Rt. 12D,
Boonville
315-358-4139
www.northcountrymanor.com
Victorian Country
Bed & Breakfast
201 Main St.,
Boonville
315-942-3368
Westview Farm
2552 East Rd.,
Boonville
315-942-6097
www.innsite.com/inns/B008150.html
Camping
Kayuta Lake Campgrounds
10892 Campground Rd.,
Forestport
315-831-5077
www.campadirondack.com
Pixley Falls State Park
11430 Rt. 46,
Boonville
315-942-4713
www.nysparks.com
Rocky’s Recreation Area
12255 Potato Hill Rd.,
Boonville
315-942-2250
315-942-5142 off season
Stysh’s Brown Barn
Campgrounds
3334 Moose River Rd.,
Boonville
315-942-4749

10 10
Events & Festivals
January
Kite Skiing Festival
Tug Hill
www.lewiscountyrecreation.com
Daredevils take to the skies and
catch wind on snow kites.
February
WinterFest
Lowville
www.lewiscountychamber.org
Dog sled races, cross-country skiing,
ice skating and free family events.
Carthage Area Winterfest
Carthage
www.carthageny.com
Snowmobile rides, cardboard sled
races and winter fun.
March
North Country Goes Green
Dulles State Office Building, Watertown
www.ncirishfest.com
Irish music, food and celebration.
Maple Weekend
Black River region
www.mapleweekend.com
Sugar shacks throughout the region
open their doors and give visitors a
glimpse of homemade “sugarin.”
June
Black River Canoe
and Kayak Race
Lyons Falls
www.adirondackstughill.com
Water races from Lyons Falls to
Beach’s Landing.
July
Jefferson County Fair
Coffeen Street, Watertown www.jeffcofair.
org
Founded in 1817. Oldest continually
operating fair in America. Games,
rides, music.
Can-Am Festival
West Main Street, Sackets Harbor www.
canamfestival.com
Historic military-themed
celebration including fireworks,
parade and vendors.
Black River Festival
Newell Street, Watertown www.
blackriverfestival.com
Whitewater rafters and kayakers
descend on the river for
competition, music and food.
Boonville-Oneida County
Fair
Schuyler Street, Boonville www.frontiernet.
net/~boonvillefair
Old fashion county fair rides,
games, truck pull, demolition
derbies and agricultural exhibits.
Lewis County Fair
Lowville
www.lewiscountyfair.org
Demolition derbies, horse and
cattle exhibitions, talent show and
midway rides.
Remsen Barn Festival
Main Street, Remsen
www.villageofremsen.org
Street festival, accoustic music,
hand crafts, authentic food and
artwork.

For More
Event & Visitor
Information,
Contact These
Offices:
Jefferson County
1000 Islands
International Tourism
Council
43733 Collins Landing,
Box 400
Alexandria Bay, NY 13607
August
NYS Woodsmen’s Field Days
Schuyler Street, Boonville www.starinfo.
com/woodsmen
Logging competitions, canoe &
kayak races, rodeo and parade.
Lewis County RiverFest
www.adirondackstughill.com
A different river section picked
annually for a leisurely group stroll.
September
50 Mile Mountain Bike Race
Maple Ridge Wind Farm
www.adirondackstughill.com
Competitive and family bike races
along the Maple Ridge Wind Farm.
Black River Fall Fest
Public Square, Watertown www.
publicsquare.com
Blues and rock music, street
buskers, vendors and classic autos.
Cream Cheese Festival
Lowville
www.creamcheesefestival.com
Home of the world’s largest
cheesecake! Children’s games, live
music and events celebrating local
industry.
Bravo Italiano Festival
Bellew Avenue, Watertown www.
iacawatertown.com
Italian food, music and events.
800-8-ISLAND
www.visit1000islands.com
Lewis County
Lewis County Chamber of
Commerce
7559 South State St.
Lowville, NY 13367
800-724-0242
www.lewiscountychamber.org
Oneida County
Oneida County
Convention & Visitors
Bureau
Box 551
Utica, NY 13503
800-426-3132
www.oneidacountycvb.com

12 12
Winter & Motorsports Fun
Snow Fun
Communities surrounding the Black River are major winter recreation destinations. Some receive more than 250
inches of snowfall a year, making the region a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Snowmobile junkies ride for days across hundreds of miles of groomed trails. Downhill skiers and snowboarders
enjoy the thrills of Snow Ridge Ski Resort in Turin and Dry Hill Ski Area in Watertown. Cross-country skiing
enthusiasts trek across miles of scenic trails that overlook the Black and cross through public forests and Tug Hill.
The fun heats up in winters along the Black River.
Ski Resorts
Dry Hill Ski Area
23682 Co. Rt. 67, Watertown
www.skidryhill.com
800-379-8584
Family skiing, nigh skiing,
snowboarding and snowtubing.
Instruction, rentals, season passes,
food service and lounge on-site.
Snow Ridge Ski Resort
4173 West Rd, Turin
www.snowridge.com
800-962-8419
Three mountains of fun. Lessons,
season passes, nearby lodging
options and the on-site Candlelight
Restaurant open Thursday to
Sunday.

ATV Trails
ATV riding is permitted in some state and county forests but is prohibited for the most part. Most ATV riding –
and there’s lots of it – occurs on private land under public easements. Almost every community in the Black River
area has an ATV club or is close to one. The tourism and trail offices below can provide maps and contacts for ATV
riding. Note that some trails use portions of roadsides to connect trailheads. Always be alert and ride with caution
when near roads. Some Lewis County trails require a permit for riding. Permits are available from the Lewis County
Chamber of Commerce.
Snowmobile, ATV, cross-country and snowshoe trail
maps are available from the following locations:
Lewis County
Chamber of Commerce
800-724-0242
www.lewiscountychamber.org
Lewis County
Recreation Trails
315-376-5972
www.lewiscountyrecreation.com
Oneida County Convention
and Visitors Bureau
800-426-3132
www.oneidacountycvb.com
Tug Hill Commission
315-785-2380
www.tughill.org
Trail Jefferson County
315-782-2749
www.trailjeffersoncounty.com
1000 Islands International
Tourism Council
800-8-ISLAND
www.visit1000islands.com

14 14
White
white. still. wild.
white.
Home to world-renowned whitewater play areas, the Jefferson County
portion of the Black River is the most populated. From Carthage to the
mouth of Black River Bay and Lake Ontario, the river drops almost 500 feet
in this 30-mile stretch. The rapid flow creates whitewater runs and play
areas that have attracted four rafting companies and kayaking outfitters.
Watertown is the urban hub and home to restaurants, shopping and
an array of accommodations. The city has created riverwalk parks and
observation areas to view kayakers and rafting parties. Watertown has
hosted the North American Freestyle Kayak Championships and has been
the first stop on the Kayaking World Cup multiple times.
Also stationed along the Whitewater area is more than a half dozen small
communities with boat launches, public fishing decks and parks.
Rafting Companies
Adirondack River
Outfitters, Inc.
140 Newell St.
Watertown
315-788-2297
800-525-7238
www.aroadventures.com
White water rafting on the Black
River in Watertown. High adventure
spring rafting, plus barbeque, great
summer family fun experience, and
beautiful fall foliage rafting. April
thru October.

B.O.B. Rafting
120 William St.
Dexter
315-785-9386
www.bobrafting.com
Starting in downtown Watertown,
you’ll travel down seven miles of
the best summer time whitewater
rafting in New York State.
Hudson River
Rafting Co. Inc.
424 Newell St.
Watertown
315-782-7881
800-888-RAFT
www.hudsonriverrafting.com
Seven miles of whitewater
excitement with challenging class
III and IV rapids in a dramatic 100
foot deep canyon. Float past old mill
ruins, surf, and have tons of fun in
the sun.
Whitewater
Challengers, Inc.
16129 Foster Park Rd
Dexter
800-443-RAFT
www.whitewaterchallengers.com
Add some excitement to your
summer with a fun-filled rafting
trip. Trip combines the heartpounding
thrills of whitewater with
all the fun of a summer beach party.
Class III-IV whitewater assures
plenty of action. A hearty BBQ
dinner is included with your trip.

16 16
WHITE
white.
12
37
11
342
180
12E
342
342
180
W. Main St.
12E
12
37
CALCIUM
11
DEXTER
Foster
PARK Rd
1 2
Foster Rd
180
180
W. Main St.
New York 12F
12E
Brownville
3
Main St.
Glen Park
3
New York 12F
3
5
4
6
Newell St.
11
11
9
WATERTOWN
7 8 11 12
Factory St.
Pearl St. Pearl St.
Water St.
Huntington St.
10
3
Pearl St.
3
12
126
3
11
12
Boat launches, fishing access, parks and whitewater play spots
1 ......................Village of Dexter Boat Launch and Fishing Access Site
2 ..............................................Fish Island Boat Launch Site
3 .................................Glen Park Hydro-Fishing Access & Portage
4 .............................Bicentennial Park picnic area and river access
5 ............................................ Black River-DEC fishing access
6 .............................Whitewater Park and Hole Brothers Play Spot
7 ........................................Veterans Memorial Riverwalk Park
8 ......................................................Factory Square Park
9 .........................................................Waterworks Park
10 .....................................
11 ...........................Marble Stre
12 .........................City Rotary Fis
13 ...................................NYS
14 ...............Brookfield Power Black
15 ..................... Black River Boat
16 ....................................B
17 ......................................
18 .....................................
Maps designed to locate features. Do not use for navigation.

WHITE
26
FORT DRUM
3
283
14
13
16
18
15 17
BLACK RIVER
Felts
Mills
3
19
3
26
Great
BeND
26
3
deferiet
20
21
22
26
3
3
3
23
26
3
Champion
126
126
26
24
west
carthage
25
carthage
126
126
126
26
= DAM
.......................... Route 3 Wave
Street Park River Access and Picnic Area
y Fishing Access and Cartop Launch Site
.NYS Parks Black River Recreational Trail
lack River Portage and Shoreline Fishing
oat Ramp & Poors Island Recreation Site
...Black River Community Overlook Park
........... Poors Island Recreation Area
...................Poors Island Portage
19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Great Bend/Felts Mills Recreation Trail
20 .............................................Deferiet Cartop Boat Launch
21 ..................................................DEC Cartop Boat Launch
22 .....................................Herrings Cartop Launch and Portage
23 ......................................Black River Boat Ramp-Hewitt Drive
24 ................................... Black River Boat Ramp-West Carthage
25 ...........................Black River Park and Boat Access - Canal Street
26 ..............................................Carthage Recreational Park

18 18
white. still. wild.
History of the Black River
The Black River’s story is one of a
wild, rampaging waterway that was
tamed by the Industrial Revolution
long enough to bring economic
prosperity. Technology and
diminished resources eventually
surpassed the region and the Black
River reclaimed some of her wild
ways by collapsing unregulated
dams. The remnants of those
industrial dams and structures now
serve as scenery for paddlers.
French surveyor Pierre Pharoux
first explored the region for
French aristocrats, and settlers
soon flocked to harness cheap,
natural power. By the Industrial
Revolution of the 1800s, Black
River communities were brimming
with paper mills, foundries, hotels,
shops and other businesses. That,
coupled with the creation of the
Black River Canal from Rome to
Carthage, created an economic
boon that the region had never
known. At one point in the 19th
century, the city of Watertown
produced most of the nation’s
newsprint as well as other paper
products.
The Industrial Revolution
transformed the communities but
did little for the river’s viability. So
many dams were erected that some
of today’s popular whitewater play
areas were run dry as water was
diverted to make power.
The economic success did not
last forever. Diminishing natural
resources teamed with new papermaking
techniques to eventually
outpace Black River communities.
Unattended, the dams stood no
match. By 1978, the dams had fallen
and the Black River reclaimed some
of her flow.

20 20
WILD
white. still. wild.
still.
Known locally as the Black River Flats, this 42-mile stretch covers all of Lewis County and runs to Carthage, Jefferson
County. This is where the Black River slows into a gentle, meandering flow. The “Flat” section was deepened in the
1850s to allow for transportation to the Black River Canal. The addition of dams, jetties and pilings created deep
sections that slowed the flow. This section drops only 15 feet over 42 miles. Because of its slow and deep flow, this
section is popular among motor boaters – boat launches are sprinkled throughout – and casual kayak and canoe
paddlers take advantage as well. Calm water fishing is also popular.
The area is comprised of flat agricultural land that’s sparsely populated except for Lowville, the Lewis County seat
and best bet for visitor services.

WILD

22 22
still.
812
Van Amber Rd.
1
Co Rd 33
CASTORLAND
Van Amber Rd.
812
410
Co rd 26
Pine Grove rd
26
26
812
Waters Rd
Number 4 rd
26
N State St
2
E State St
SHAdy AVe
E State St
River st
S State St
Waters Rd
Utica Blvd
Number 4 rd
Bea luck Rd
3
Bea luck Rd
Bea luck Rd
Bea luck Rd
Williams Rd
12
Blue St
12
LOWVILLE
26
Martinsburg
12
12
26
4
26
Boat launches, fishing access, parks and recreation areas
1 ................Black River Boat Ramp-Castorland
2 ............................ Lowville Village Park
3 ................. Beach’s Landing Fishing Access,
boat Launch, and Park
4 ...................... Whetstone Gulf State Park
5 ...................................Glenfield Park
6 .........................Otter Creek Horse Trails
7 ........................Burdick’s Crossing Bridge
8 .....................Black River Boat Ramp-Greig
9 .............................Greig Fishing Access
10 ..............Black River Boat Ramp-Lyons Falls
11 .........Three-Way Bridge Boat Launch and Park
12 ......................Port Leyden Fishing Access
13 .............Black River Boat Ramp-Norton Road
Maps designed to locate features. Do not use for navigation.

6
Blue St
Greig Rd
5
Glenfield
12
Co Rd 39
Greig
7
Burdicks Crossing Rd
8
9
Co Rd 39
12
Co Rd 39
26
26
Turin
12
10
LYONS FALLS
11
Port LeydEn
12
26
12
13
12
= DAM

24 24
WILD
white. still. wild.
Tug Hill
Home to the greatest snowfall
east of the Rockies, Tug Hill is a
snowmobile haven. But that’s not all.
This rural, rugged terrain is popular with skiers, hikers,
mountain bikers, ATV enthusiasts, horseback riders,
anglers and hunters. Spread out across 150,000
acres between the Adirondack Mountains and Lake
Ontario, Tug Hill has only about 100,000 people, which
contributes to its remote, rugged appeal.
Land is a mix of public and private ownership. Vast
state landholdings allow public access to Tug Hill’s rich
recreational resources, though some trails cross private
property. Permission is granted via recreational trail
easements.
The region spans across Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida and
Oswego counties and encompasses 41 towns and 21
villages. Antique shops, campgrounds, bed-and-breakfasts
and craft stores are tucked in little corners throughout.

WILD
Fishing and hunting opportunities
are plentiful. The numerous
streams and reservoirs produce
salmon, trout, bass and walleye
as well as waterfowl. Wildlife runs
rampant throughout the dense
forests, which are home to deer,
turkeys, bobcats, beavers, rabbits,
black bears and more.
The region’s economy relies on
natural resources. Clean water
supplies communities within and
beyond its borders, and Tug Hill’s
forests supply sawmills, furniture
manufacturers and paper mills.
Tug Hill Commission
The Tug Hill Commission is a great
resource for all things related to
Tug Hill. The commission uses a
grassroots approach to foster
appropriate development while
protecting the environmental
integrity of this unique region. The
commission provides technical
assistance to local governments,
economic development
organizations and others in the
areas.
Tug Hill Commission
Dulles State Office Building
317 Washington St.
Watertown, New York 13601
(315) 785-2380/2570
tughill@tughill.org

26 26
STILL
white. still. wild.
wild.
Aptly named, the Black River’s
headwaters cascade over boulders
and natural falls to produce one
of the most unspoiled waterways
ever experienced. Beloved by
fly fishing anglers and hikers,
the southern end of the river is
surrounded by dense forests that
have preserved the river’s natural
beauty. The “Wild” area stretches
more than 40 miles from Boonville
and Forestport in Oneida County to
Lyons Falls in Lewis County. Along
the way, it drops more than 1,000
feet in elevation. Flow is light here
because it lies upriver of the major
tributaries that feed the Black
River.
Boonville and Forestport are the
population centers for the “Wild”
river area and are frequented
by adventurous paddlers. Both
communities have visitor’s services.
The Forestport Reservoir and
nearby Kayuta Lake offer ample
cruising space for motor boats.

STILL

river rd
28 28
wild.
12
Co Rd 39
26
Turin
12
1
Lyons Falls
2
Port LeydEn
12
26
12
3
New York 12D
12
= DAM
New York 12D
Boat launches, fishing access and parks
1 ................Black River Boat Ramp-Lyons Falls
2 .........Three-Way Bridge Boat Launch and Park
3 ......................Port Leyden Fishing Access
4 .............Black River Boat Ramp-Norton Road
5 ..................Boonville Canal Trail-Erwin Park
6 .................................. Fishing Access
7 .................................Forestport Park
8 ...........Forestport Reservoir and Boat Launch
9 ...........................Forestport Boat Ramp
10 ........... Non-Motorized Cross-Country Skiing,
Mountain Biking and Hiking Trails
294
Maps designed to locate features. Do not use for navigation.

4
river rd
co rd 61
12
moose river rd
Hawkinsville Rd
28
Post St
12
moose river rd
5
Hayes Rd
co rd 61
lachausse rd
Edmonds Rd
canal
toWpath
6
millers woods rd
irish settlement rd
8
7
28
BOONVILLE
Erwin Pkwy
Erwin Pkwy
12
Farm rd
Erwin Pkwy
Kerwin rd
Dutch Hill Rd
28
Woodhull Rd
O Brien Rd
9
Forestport
94
12
10
12
Dustin Rd
28

30 30
STILL
white. still. wild.
Black River Canal
Built to capitalize on the success of the Erie Canal,
the Black River Canal created a short-lived economic
boon the likes of which the region had never seen.
Many of its locks can be viewed on land, and history
buffs enjoy finding historic markers tucked into rocks
and trail heads.
The canal was an engineering marvel, surpassing
even its more-renowned cousin: the Erie Canal. The
canal, which opened in 1850, connected with the Erie
near Rome and ran more than 70 miles to Carthage.
In total, it included 109 locks allowing the waterway
to rise and fall 1,079 feet. By comparison, the much
longer Erie Canal ran for 360 miles and included just
83 locks to cover a drop of 692 feet. The final cost to
build the Black River Canal was $3.5 million.
The canal provided lumber, pulp and firewood to
New York City and the state’s metropolitan centers.
It spurned mills, hotels, boat yards and other
businesses along its edges. The heyday, however,
was short. The canal operated for only 60 years after
taking more than a dozen to complete.
By 1900, the canal had outlived its usefulness and
fell into disrepair. Competition with rail and the loss
of lumber caused by vast clearings made the canal
unprofitable. The state abandoned it in 1922.

STILL

What is a blueway?
A blueway trail is a small boat and paddling route that combines recreation,
tourism and environmental awareness. The blueway trail guides visitors
to play areas, rest stations and land-based attractions. Blueway trails
connect to villages, hamlets and main streets to encourage travelers to visit
communities and generate economic activity and promote revitalization.
The Black River Blueway Trail was created because of its recreational
offerings, ample lodging, and pristine nature. The Black River Blueway Trail
is undergoing park and facility development and improvements to enhance
use and provide proper access to one of New York State’s greatest outdoor
playgrounds... the Black River.
B L U E W A Y