New York Quick Facts
- Personal Use PermitNot required (DEC lands)
- Best SeasonMay - October
- Top SpeciesMorels, Chanterelles, Hen of Woods
- Key LocationsAdirondacks, Catskills, State Forests
New York offers diverse mushroom foraging opportunities from the vast Adirondack Park to the Catskill Mountains and numerous state forests. The state's varied ecosystems support everything from spring morels to fall hen of the woods.
New York Foraging Regulations
DEC Lands (State Forests & Forest Preserve)
New York's Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) manages millions of acres of public land:
- State Forests allow mushroom collection for personal use
- Forest Preserve lands (Adirondacks, Catskills) permit personal use foraging
- No permit required for personal use
Adirondack Park
The 6-million-acre Adirondack Park contains both private and public land. State-owned Forest Preserve land allows mushroom foraging for personal use. Private land within the park requires landowner permission.
State Parks
New York State Parks have varying rules. Many prohibit plant collection, which may include mushrooms. Always check with specific parks before foraging.
Best Mushrooms in New York
Morels
New York's morel season runs from late April through May. Look in old orchards, disturbed areas, and near dead elms. The Hudson Valley and Finger Lakes region are productive.
Chanterelles
Golden chanterelles fruit from July through September in oak and beech forests. The Catskills and Adirondacks offer excellent habitat.
Hen of the Woods (Maitake)
A prized fall mushroom found at the base of oak trees. New York produces excellent hen of the woods throughout the Hudson Valley and beyond.
Black Trumpet
Found in oak and beech forests, often in the same areas as chanterelles. A choice edible with smoky flavor.
Best Foraging Locations
- Adirondack Park - Vast wilderness, boreal species
- Catskill Park - Northern hardwood forests
- Finger Lakes National Forest - Only National Forest in NY
- Various State Forests - Found throughout the state
Track Your New York Finds
Use Mushroom Tracker to GPS-tag your Adirondack and Catskill spots.
