Gordon Pond Closed for Dam Repair

NY DEC Press Releases

Published March 18th, 2026

Detected March 18th, 2026

Summary

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has temporarily closed Gordon Pond and surrounding campsites in Sullivan County for dam repair. The closure, which impacts fishing and camping, is expected to last through the end of the year.

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What changed

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced the immediate temporary closure of Gordon Pond and its adjacent campsites within the Hickok Brook Multiple Use Area in Sullivan County. This closure is necessary to conduct safety repairs on the Gordon Dam, addressing structural deficiencies to comply with state dam safety standards. Fishing and boating activities will be suspended during the construction period, which is anticipated to extend through the end of 2026.

While the rest of the Hickok Brook Multiple Use Area remains open, the five designated campsites around Gordon Pond are inaccessible until repairs are finalized. The DEC will provide notification upon the reopening of the pond. Regulated entities or individuals planning outdoor recreation in the area should be aware of these temporary restrictions and consider alternative locations provided by the DEC.

What to do next

Note temporary closure of Gordon Pond and associated campsites.
Advise recreational users to consult DEC for alternative locations.

Source document (simplified)

March 18, 2026

DEC Announces Temporary Closure of Gordon Pond at Hickok Brook Multiple Use Area in Sullivan County

Immediate Closure in Effect for Dam Repair

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the temporary closure of Gordon Pond and its surrounding campsites in the Hickok Brook Multiple Use Area located in the town of Highland, Sullivan County, due to necessary safety repairs to the Gordon Dam. Fishing and boating will be impacted during the project and not possible during construction, which may last through the end of the year. Repairs will include dam infrastructure construction to address structural deficiencies and ensure compliance with New York State dam safety standards.

The five designated campsites surrounding Gordon Pond will remain closed to the public until dam repairs are complete. The closed area is delineated with DEC signage. The rest of the property remains open. The seasonal access road will open on April 15, 2026, although the road may be temporarily closed at times to move materials and equipment onto the construction site.

Nearby alternative locations for outdoor recreation include Mongaup Valley Wildlife Management Area, Huckleberry Ridge State Forest, Neversink Unique Area and Wolf Brook Multiple Use Area.

DEC will announce the reopening of Gordon Pond upon completion of construction. Contact DEC’s Region 3 New Paltz office at (845) 256-3074 for more information, or visit DEC’s website.

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