Wellesley Island State Park | Thousand Islands

Wellesley Island State Park is one of New York State’s largest and most scenic state parks, located on Wellesley Island in the Thousand Islands region along the St. Lawrence River. Spanning over 2,600 acres, it offers an exceptional variety of outdoor recreational opportunities combined with stunning natural beauty, making it a premier destination for nature lovers, campers, boaters, and families.

Location and Overview

Address: 44927 Cross Island Road, Fineview, NY 13640

Area: Approximately 2,643 acres of woodlands, wetlands, river shoreline, and open fields

Situated On: Wellesley Island, accessible by the Thousand Islands Bridge

Management: Operated by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation

The park is a year-round destination that caters to outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and interests, with an emphasis on preserving the diverse natural habitats and ecological communities found in the region.

Natural Features

Wellesley Island State Park boasts a rich diversity of landscapes, including dense forests, marshes, meadows, and shoreline along the St. Lawrence River. It contains 18 different natural community types, providing habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, including:

White-tailed deer

Wild turkey

Ruffed grouse

Bald eagles and osprey, frequently seen soaring above the river

Amphibians, turtles, and many bird species

The park's location within the migratory flyway makes it a prime birdwatching spot, especially during spring and fall migrations.

Camping and Lodging

The park offers extensive camping facilities for visitors looking to immerse themselves in nature:

Over 400 Campsites: Suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs, including sites with electric hookups and several remote, walk-in or boat-in sites for a more rustic experience.

Cabins and Cottages: There are twelve rental cottages, many with two or three bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, bathrooms, and porches with beautiful views, ideal for families or groups wanting more comfort. Some cottages are available year-round, making winter stays possible.

Amenities: Modern bathhouses, dump stations, picnic tables, fire rings, and some pet-friendly areas. Pets are allowed in camping areas but not inside cottages.

Camping season is generally from May through October, with some cottages accessible in the winter.

Water Recreation

The park’s waterfront location on the St. Lawrence River offers abundant opportunities for water-based activities:

Marina: A full-service marina with 150 boat slips provides fuel, bait, tackle, ice, and pump-out services. It’s a popular base for boaters exploring the Thousand Islands.

Boat Rentals: Visitors can rent 14- and 16-foot fishing boats by the day or week, ideal for fishing or exploring the waterways.

Fishing: The river and adjacent waters are well-stocked with species such as perch, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and muskie, attracting anglers especially in the fall fishing season.

Swimming: A sandy, designated swimming beach located in a sheltered cove offers safe swimming conditions, with lifeguards on duty during the summer season (late June to late August).

Trails and Nature Center

Minna Anthony Common Nature Center: A key feature of the park, this center offers educational exhibits, live animal displays, and nature programs for visitors of all ages.

Hiking Trails: The park has about nine miles of marked trails for hiking and exploring, passing through forests, wetlands, and scenic overlooks with views of the river and islands. Trails vary in difficulty and length, suitable for casual strolls or more vigorous hikes.

Winter Trails: The same trails serve cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months, offering a tranquil way to enjoy the park’s beauty year-round.

Other Recreational Amenities

Golf Course: A nine-hole golf course with a putting green is available on-site, welcoming players of all skill levels and offering senior discounts.

Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds provide safe and fun spaces for children.

Picnic Areas: Scattered throughout the park, equipped with tables and grills, perfect for family outings or group gatherings.

Camp Store: Supplies essentials, snacks, and camping gear for visitors’ convenience.

Seasonal Activities and Events

Summer: Boating, swimming, hiking, golfing, and educational programs at the Nature Center.

Fall: Prime fishing season, vibrant fall foliage for hiking and photography, and bird migrations.

Winter: Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and some cottage rentals for winter getaways.

The park is popular throughout the warmer months and offers a quieter, peaceful retreat in the off-season.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

The park offers accessible campsites, restrooms, and trails to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges, though some rugged areas may have limited accessibility.

Visitor information is available at the Nature Center and park office.

Reservations for campsites and cottages can be made online or by phone, especially recommended during peak summer months.

Summary

Wellesley Island State Park is a vibrant, multifaceted outdoor destination where visitors can experience the natural beauty and recreational richness of the Thousand Islands region. Its vast forests, shoreline, trails, and well-developed facilities provide ample opportunities for camping, boating, fishing, hiking, golfing, wildlife observation, and seasonal outdoor adventures. The park’s blend of wilderness and amenities makes it an ideal spot for families, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts to connect with nature year-round.