Scenery, history and recreation make up the town of Russia
Camping, fishing and enjoying nature’s beauty are activities people often reserve for vacation, but residents in the town of Russia are surrounded by outdoor recreation and beautiful scenery in the foothills of the Adirondacks. At the center of town is the Russia Four Corners Historic District, where some of the earliest homes were built and where the town originated in the early 1800s. “I’d say the majority of people are retired, but there are younger people that are moving in and taking over the older homes and remodeling them,” says Kimberly Defaria, an experienced licensed real estate salesperson with River Hills Properties. “They are loving the area because it’s so beautiful. There are farms, woodlands; there’s rolling hills. It’s a rural community that’s set back in time.” Being in this part of Herkimer County means having short drives to busier towns and cities. “It's not far from places you need to go to work,” Defaria says. “You can work in a city but be only a few minutes away and be able to live a peaceful, country life, if that’s what you’re looking for.”
Living in a village or on sprawling lots in the town
The town of Russia villages of Poland and Cold Brook, where homes have about an acre of land and access to public water. Outside of these villages, properties often have lots that stretch across acres, septic tanks and well water systems. Cabins and ranch-style homes close to the creek or reservoir are often the most expensive in Russia, ranging from about $330,000 to $430,000. Farmhouse-style homes from the 1900s and Colonial Revivals from the 1800s tend to sell for $100,000 to $300,000. Anything property that goes for less than $100,000 often needs repairs.
Hinckley Reservoir, scenic hiking trails and more outdoor destinations
Defaria says, “You’re close to Hinckley Lake, which is a big draw for tourists and people that love that lifestyle.” West Canada Creek Campground is near the creek, while rental cabins and sites like Trail's End Campground are close to the Hinckley Reservoir, sometimes called Hinckley Lake. Hinckley State Forest is open for hunting, hiking and snowmobiling. Trenton Falls Scenic Trail only opens to the public for two weekends every year, once in the spring and once in the fall. Hikers can follow one of the trails to see the hydro dam or another trail to see the Trenton Falls flowing into the gorge below.
Kuyahoora Valley Town Park is the busiest spot for locals. The athletic fields, playground and covered picnic tables are hidden behind tall shade trees and Poland Central School. Only members can play a round at the 9-hole Glass Hill Golf Course. Snowmobilers can become members of the Ohio Ridge Riders to participate in meetings and plan the annual Snow Bash, which usually includes a grass snowmobile race, swap meet and food vendors.
Attending all grade levels in Poland Central School
Most of Russia falls in the Poland Central School District, which is rated B-minus by Niche. The Poland Central School campus houses elementary, middle and high school classes. Poland Elementary School earns a B-minus, and Poland Junior-Senior High School receives a C-plus. Poland Central’s track and field team has a long history of winning conference titles. In 2025, the team won its fifth sectional championship and sixth league title. A few homes north of the Hinckley Reservoir may be zoned for the Remsen Central School District, which gets a C-plus rating.
Commuting to Utica, Middleville or Herkimer
Long, two-lane roads weave through town, though state Route 28 flows along the southern border, leading to busier towns like Middleville and Herkimer. “You're 30 minutes from major hubs like Utica, Little Falls,” Defaria says. “You can jump right on Route 28 and be in Utica.” Barneveld Medical Office offers primary care services, but Wynn Hospital is about 20 miles away in Utica for emergency services. The Syracuse Hancock International Airport is roughly 70 miles from Russia, and the drive takes around an hour when using Interstate 90. There are churches dotted throughout Russia, but Poland Baptist Church is a landmark on Main Street with its white siding and tall bell tower.
Dining by the water at Rocky's on the Lake and drinks at the Alamo Bar
Despite the rural setting, residents have easy access to restaurants. Defaria mentions Rocky's on The Lake, which is close to the Hinckley Reservoir and serves Italian dishes for dinner. In Poland, the Alamo Bar & Grill stays open late, offering elevated American dishes, seafood and drinks. Patty Jean Country Restaurant is known for its early morning breakfasts, lunch items and homemade desserts. Nearby Barneveld has the Desantis Meat Market & Deli for groceries. There are convenience stores in Russia for quick needs, but Utica has more stores like Walmart.
Annual summer programs in Russia
Parents can sign their kids up for the Town of Russia Summer Youth Program, held every year. The program includes crafts, friendly tournaments and field trips. It also offers free breakfast and lunch to children who are not enrolled in the program.
Watching for intense snow and possible creek floods
Winters can bring heavy snowfall in Russia, leading to travel bans issued by the county. The West Canada Creek has flooded during torrential rain in the past, affecting roads and nearby campgrounds. Anyone who lives close to the creek or the reservoir should check local maps to see if they land in a flood zone.
