Tucked away in the southeastern corner of Cortland County, Papish Pond offers a serene paddling escape that's untouched by development. Just 6 miles from Cincinnatus, this hidden gem is the only public pond in Cortland County that remains completely wild.
Papish Pond DEC Quick Tips:
- Getting There: Off Beach Road, Cincinnatus, NY (42.4935° N, 75.9513° W)
- Launch Type: Car-top hand launch—no trailer or dock access
- Boat Policy: Non-motorized only (paddlecraft or electric boats permitted)
- Fishing: Healthy wild populations of panfish and bass—no stocking required
- Access Fee: Free; no permits needed for day use
Getting There & What to Bring
Papish Pond Multiple Use Area is a free-access site off Beach Road. The hand-launch parking pull-off marks the entry point—no docks, restrooms, or motorized boats here. It’s a back-to-basics kayaking spot, so pack your essentials and follow Leave-No-Trace practices. Remember to disinfect your kayak before and after your visit, per DEC guidelines.
Why It’s a Top Choice for Kayakers
- Undeveloped shoreline: 38 wild acres with 1.1 miles of pristine edge—a rare find.
- No motors allowed: Gas-powered boats are banned, ensuring calm, undisturbed paddling.
- Warm, shallow waters: With a max depth of around 15 – 16 ft, the pond nurtures lush aquatic gardens—perfect for close-up exploration.
On the Water
Today I'm paddling one of Cortland County's hidden gems. Tucked away in the southeastern corner of Cortland County- Papish Pond is often considered a part of Gee Brook State Forest, as they are so nearby one another. In the cool hush of morning, I slipped my kayak into a carpet of yellow and white water lilies and pointed my bow south, toward the open water at the far end of Papish Pond. The rising sun cast golden ripples across the dark surface as I paddled slowly, a barred owl calling eerily from somewhere deep in the trees.
Though Papish is a small pond, its untouched shoreline drew me in today. Not a house, dock, or swimmer in sight—just one perfect mile of wild shoreline, and I had it all to myself.
Now and then, a sudden splash would break the quiet, and I’d snap my head around—only to catch ripples and wonder what creature had slipped beneath the surface. Damsel flies perched on my paddle, catching a ride as I drifted lazily toward the center of the pond. I scanned the shaded forest edge, searching for the source of rustling leaves. Just as I leaned forward to peer into the undergrowth, a pair of Canadian geese burst into flight overhead—their honks startling enough to nearly launch me from my seat. I laughed out loud, alone in the stillness.
Wildlife & Natural Highlights
- Aquatic life: The pond isn’t stocked, but healthy populations of bluegill, black crappie, largemouth bass, and chain pickerel thrive here.
- Botanical display: Daisies, cattails, milkweed, elderflower, and pickerelweed line the southern shore, while driftwood and moss-covered stumps sculpt the western edge.
- Beaver lodges: I discovered a modest lodge near the south shore—and, later, a massive island-sized lodge at the north end. Quiet reverence guided my departure, respecting those efforts of nature.
Perfect for a Slow Paddle
Even with a relaxed, meandering route, I covered just over a mile—but each inch felt like a well-kept secret. For those seeking calm kayaking or off-the-beaten-path paddleboarding, Papish Pond is ideal—pack a picnic, take your time, and soak in the solitude. For lovers of quiet kayaking spots, Papish Pond is a treasure—untouched, undisturbed, and unforgettable.