Witchcraft is a topic that has fascinated and intrigued people for centuries. Many individuals are curious about its practices and history, and may even wonder if there are any local witches near them. While the concept of witchcraft may vary from culture to culture, it generally involves the use of magical powers and rituals to influence or manipulate events. Witchcraft is often associated with Wicca, a modern pagan religion that incorporates witchcraft into its practices. Wiccans believe in the power of nature and its connection to the divine, and may perform spells and rituals to harness this power. However, not all witches identify as Wiccans, and the practice of witchcraft can be found in various forms and traditions.

Buckland Museum of Witchcraft and Magick

It all started in a Bay Shore basement. It was the mid-1960s, and Raymond Buckland, leader of what became known as the Long Island Coven, had been collecting historical witchcraft objects, oddities, and occult paraphernalia for years. He amassed hundreds of pieces, and with shelves bursting he eventually moved into larger quarters, opening the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft and Magick.

Buckland was inspired by his mentor Gerald Gardner, and the gallery has many objects originally owned by the father of “Gardnerian” Wicca. Alongside are items from the Salem Witch Trials, Egyptian funerary figurines called “ushabtis,” and artifacts owned by magicians, astrologers, fortune tellers, and pagan community elders.

In addition to being a coven leader, Buckland was a busy writer and lecturer on the move, and his collection came along with him. Over the years it lived in New Hampshire, came through some legal disputes in New Orleans, and eventually ended up in storage in Columbus, Ohio. Now, with a new curator and small gallery to show it off, it has been reborn as the Buckland Gallery of Witchcraft and Magick.

Although space is limited, a large portion of the collection is on display. There’s even room for the Demon in a Box, captured by Buckland in the 1970s with the help of a ceremonial magician.

Know Before You Go

The museum is located about 10 minutes from downtown.

Parking behind the building and along the street. Photos are allowed (no flash) but the curator respectfully asks no video.

Check the museum's website for current opening times and tickets.

Witch's Hole Multiple Use Area

The 451-acre Witch's Hole Multiple Use Area and it's adjacent 140-acre parcel of forest preserve are accessed through neighboring Minnewaska State Park (leaves DEC website) via the Old Smiley Carriage Road, which is open to hiking and other non-motorized recreation.

However, not all witches identify as Wiccans, and the practice of witchcraft can be found in various forms and traditions. For those interested in finding witches or practitioners of witchcraft in their area, there are several avenues to explore. First, one can look for pagan or Wiccan communities in their local area.

Featured Activities

Hiking

General information on hiking includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules & regulations.

Witch's Hole Multiple UA features Old Smiley Carriage Road, which is an unmarked multi-use trail open to hiking and other non-motorized recreation. This trail winds across the southern portion of the unit and runs through the neighboring Minnewaska State Park (leaves DEC website) as well.

Primitive Camping

General information on primitive camping includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules & regulations.

There are no designated campsites on this state forest however, at-large primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.

Hunting

General Information on hunting includes how-to and safety tips with links to seasons, rules & regulations.

Hunting is allowed during appropriate seasons. The main game species and furbearers found on the property include small game (especially squirrels), turkey, deer, and bear.

Trapping

General information on trapping includes how-to and safety tips with links to seasons, rules & regulations.

Trapping is allowed during appropriate seasons. The main game species and furbearers found on the property include small game (especially squirrels), turkey, deer, and bear. There are trapping opportunities for wide‐ranging predator species such as fisher, bobcat, and coyote, but trappers won't find very many aquatic furbearers such as beaver or muskrat.

Cross-Country Skiing

General information on cross-country skiing includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules & regulations.

Witch's Hole Multiple Use Area is open to cross-country skiing in the winter. There are no groomed or maintained trails, however cross-country skiing is permitted on all forest roads and hiking trails.

Snowshoeing

General information on snowshoeing includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules & regulations.

Witch's Hole Multiple Use Area is open to snowshoeing in the winter. There are no groomed or maintained trails, however snowshoeing is permitted on all forest roads and hiking trails.

Watchable Wildlife

General information on animals includes links to information about birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and insects that inhabit or migrate through the state

A variety of wildlife can be found within the unit. In addition to the notable game species such as small game, turkey, deer, bear, fisher, bobcat, and coyote, various birds may be found. These include common raven, bald eagle, osprey, warblers, owls, flycatchers, hawks, and other songbirds, plus at-risk species such as peregrine falcon, Cooper's hawk, red-shouldered hawk, and golden-winged warbler. Reptiles and amphibians that may be found include a variety of turtles, snakes, salamanders, frogs and toads, plus the at-risk timber rattlesnake, marbled salamander, Jefferson salamander, wood turtle and eastern box turtle.

Directions

The most direct route to Witch's Hole State Forest is along the Old Smiley Carriage Road which begins at the Berme Road Town Park in Ellenville, NY. The old road will take you through the southern portion of Minnewaska State Park (leaves DEC website) before entering Witch's Hole MUA. Visitors are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the rules of Minnewaska State Park (leaves DEC website) due to the fact that they may differ slightly with DEC State Land Regulations.

Rules, Regulations and Outdoor Safety

Practice Leave No Trace Principles when recreating on state land to enjoy the outdoors responsibly; minimize impact on the natural resources and avoid conflicts with other users.

All users of Witch's Hole Multiple Use Area must follow all State Land Use Regulations and should follow all Outdoor Safety Practices for the safety of the user and protection of the resource.

Specific Rules

Snowmobiling, mountain biking and horseback riding are allowed within the property but there are no designated trails or maintained areas for these activities. Visitors are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the rules of Minnewaska State Park (leaves DEC website) as they may differ with DEC State Land Regulations.

Planning and Management

DEC has developed the Shawangunk Ridge Draft Unit Management Plan (PDF, 10MB) which describes the management activities for these lands. In addition to management objectives, the UMP contains detailed information on natural features, recreational infrastructure, geology, natural and human history, habitats, wildlife, fisheries and much more.

If you have questions about this UMP, please email us at [email protected] .

Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities and Other Information

State Lands and Facilities

• Minnewaska State Park
• Shawangunk Ridge State Forest
• Roosa Gap State Forest
• Wurtsboro Ridge State Forest
• Vernooy Kill State Forest
• Sundown Wild Forest

Where to Find Nearby Amenities

• Gas may be found in the nearby communities of Ellenville and Kerhonkson.
• Lodging and dining opportunities along with food and other supplies can be found in the nearby communities of Naponoch, Ellenville, and Kerhokson.

Ulster County Tourism can provide information about other recreation, attractions and amenities in this area.

Numerous guidebooks and maps are available with information on the lands, waters, trails and other recreational facilities in this area. These can be purchased at most outdoor equipment retailers, bookstores, and on-line booksellers.

Additional information, outdoor equipment, trip suggestions and guided or self-guided tours may be obtained from outdoor guide and outfitting businesses. Check area chambers of commerce, telephone directories or search the internet for listings.

Consider hiring an outdoor guide if you have little experience or woodland skills. See the NYS Outdoor Guides Association for information on outdoor guides.

What Are Witches’ Marks?

Witches’ marks - ritual protection symbols or apotropaic marks - have been found in many historic places, from medieval churches and houses, to barns, and caves.

The word 'apotropaic' comes from the Greek word for averting evil. The marks were usually scribed onto stone or woodwork near a building’s entrance points, particularly doorways, windows and fireplaces, to protect inhabitants and visitors from witches and evil spirits.

They date back to times when belief in witchcraft and the supernatural was widespread. Magical symbols and ritual objects were a common part of life from around the 16th to the early 19th century.

These communities may have public events or gatherings where one can meet and connect with witches. Online forums, social media groups, and websites dedicated to witchcraft can also provide information and resources for finding local witches. It is important to approach the topic of witchcraft with an open mind and respect for different beliefs and practices. Not all witches may be willing to openly advertise their craft or be easily accessible to those outside of their community. Additionally, it is essential to approach witches and practitioners with respect and consent, as not all may wish to engage in discussions or share their practices with strangers..

Reviews for "Unlocking the Mystery: Exploring Local Legends of Witchcraft"

1. John - 1 star - I had the worst experience with "Witchcraft near me". The so-called witch didn't seem to know what she was doing. She provided inaccurate information and made false promises. Not to mention, she charged me an arm and a leg for her services. I definitely do not recommend this service to anyone looking for genuine witchcraft assistance.

2. Sarah - 2 stars - I had high hopes when I discovered "Witchcraft near me" but was left disappointed. The witch I contacted was unprofessional and lacked the knowledge I was looking for. She seemed more interested in making a quick buck than helping me with my witchcraft inquiries. I expected better service and guidance, but unfortunately, this was not the case.

3. Mark - 1 star - "Witchcraft near me" was a complete waste of time and money. The witch I went to had no real powers or abilities. She couldn't offer any useful insights or practical advice. It felt like she was just pretending to be a witch for profit. I regret ever seeking their services and would advise others to steer clear of this fraudulent business.

From the Witch's Cottage to the Local Woods: Exploring Witchcraft Locations near Me