Rock Island Lighthouse | Thousand Islands

Rock Island Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse and state park located on Rock Island, in the heart of the Thousand Islands region of the St. Lawrence River, near Clayton, New York. It is a unique destination combining maritime history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities.

Location and Access

Rock Island Lighthouse State Park is situated about 4.5 miles northeast of Clayton, New York. The island is accessible only by boat, which can be either a private vessel or via guided tours departing from Clayton or nearby Grass Point State Park. This limited access preserves the island’s natural environment and offers visitors a sense of adventure.

Historical Background

Established: The lighthouse was originally commissioned in 1847 as one of six lights to aid navigation along the St. Lawrence River between Lake Ontario and the Thousand Islands.

The first structure was a combined brick keeper’s house and lantern, but due to poor visibility issues, it was replaced in 1882 by a separate iron lighthouse tower.

In 1903, the lighthouse was relocated to a brick foundation off the north side of the island, where the current lighthouse stands.

The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1955, after more than a century of guiding ships safely through the treacherous waters.

In 1976, the State of New York acquired the island.

It was officially opened to the public as a state park in 2013 to preserve its historical significance and natural beauty.

Features and Attractions

Lighthouse Tower

Visitors can climb the iron lighthouse tower to reach the lantern room, which offers panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and the Thousand Islands. The climb involves a narrow, winding staircase and is not suitable for those with mobility challenges or fear of heights.

Keeper’s Quarters Museum

The former lighthouse keeper’s house has been converted into a museum that contains:

Artifacts related to lighthouse operations and maritime history.

Exhibits about the lighthouse’s role in navigation and safety.

Historical photographs and interpretive displays that tell the story of the lighthouse keepers and their families.

Nature Trails

The island has walking paths through wooded areas and along the shoreline, allowing visitors to experience the local flora, fauna, and stunning river vistas. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and quiet reflection.

Gift Shop

A small gift shop near the museum offers souvenirs, books, and educational materials related to the lighthouse and the Thousand Islands region.

Visiting Information

Park Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk.

Lighthouse & Museum Hours: Typically open from May 11 through September 15, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Admission Fees:

Adults: $3

Children (6-12): $2

Children under 6: Free

No charge for docking private boats.

Facilities: The park operates as a “carry-in, carry-out” site, meaning no trash facilities are provided, so visitors must take their waste with them.

How to Get There

Private Boat: Visitors can dock at the island’s pier free of charge.

Guided Tours: Clayton Island Tours offers a popular Rock Island Lighthouse and Nature Tour aboard the glass-bottom boat Night Heron. The tour includes:

A scenic boat ride on the St. Lawrence River.

A one-hour stop on the island to explore the lighthouse and museum.

Viewing underwater features through the glass-bottom boat.

Tour prices vary depending on age and season, generally around $30 for adults and discounted rates for children and seniors.

Significance and Experience

Rock Island Lighthouse State Park offers a rare combination of historic maritime heritage and peaceful natural surroundings. Visitors experience a window into 19th-century lighthouse life while enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Thousand Islands. The island’s quiet trails, rich history, and river vistas make it a must-visit destination for history buffs, nature lovers, boaters, and photographers.

Summary

Historic lighthouse built in the mid-1800s, operational until 1955.

Located on a secluded island accessible only by boat.

Features a climbable lighthouse tower and a museum in the keeper’s quarters.

Offers scenic nature trails and birdwatching opportunities.

Open to visitors seasonally, with guided boat tours providing easy access.

A blend of maritime history, ecology, and stunning Thousand Islands views.

This site preserves a key piece of regional maritime history while providing an intimate nature experience in one of the most beautiful river settings in North America.