The Thousand Islands region along the St. Lawrence River offers numerous options for camping near Alexandria Bay, New York. Located where the river meets Lake Ontario, this area features over 1,800 islands scattered across the waterway. Summer temperatures typically range between 60-80°F with occasional strong winds coming off the water. Camping in this area provides unique access to international waters, with the Canadian border visible from many campsites.
What to do
Boating and fishing access: Wellesley Island State Park Campground offers multiple water access points for fishing and boating. "There's a marina, boat launch and boat rentals. Docking. You can even day trip it use public grills and still enjoy everything the park has to offer," notes one visitor who appreciated the extensive water recreation options.
Hiking trails: The nature center at Wellesley Island connects to miles of hiking paths with river views. A camper shared: "I really recommend heading to the nature center and following the trails there. The views are gorgeous and you get some great vistas."
Castle tours: Several historic castles are accessible from Cedar Point State Park Campground, just a short drive from attractions. "Just a short drive from Clayton, Alex Bay, Cape Vincent and Canada, there is something for everyone at Cedar Point," says one reviewer who appreciated its central location.
What campers like
Waterfront viewing spots: Kring Point State Park Campground offers sites with dual water views. "I am tent camping and found my site (105) to have a couple of relatively level areas to choose to set up my tent on. This site is on Goose Bay, but the sites across the road are on the St Lawrence River just a few hundred feet away."
Dark skies for stargazing: Some campgrounds offer minimal light pollution, allowing for stellar night views. One camper at Swan Bay Resort mentioned: "Quite dark at night, but that was a bonus as we were able to see the Milky Way!"
International shipping observation: Many riverfront sites provide views of cargo ships traveling the seaway. "Watch the cargo ships cruise the channel," notes a camper who found this passive activity fascinating during their stay at Wellesley Island.
What you should know
Boat-only access: Several campgrounds including Mary Island State Park Campground require watercraft to reach them. "You can only get to it by boat. How awesome!? Every site is far away from the next and each has its own unique and beautiful view of the water and surrounding islands."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close between late September and mid-October, with most opening in May. Operating seasons vary slightly between parks.
Wind conditions: Strong winds can damage equipment, particularly awnings. One camper noted: "Our neighbor who has camped here seasonally for the last four years mentioned that he lost three awnings to the wind."
Reservation competition: Waterfront sites fill quickly, requiring advance planning. "It's so nice it's hard to reserve, because people grab it nine months in advance!" notes a camper about Kring Point State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Cedar Point State Park Campground maintains a staffed beach area suitable for children. "The beach was well kept, and the playground was perfect for our kids (8 and younger)," explains one family who found the swimming facilities child-friendly.
Nature education: Wellesley Island operates a nature center with educational programs. According to one visitor: "We camped here with one of our children, and had a wonderful time canoeing, fishing, and spending time together!"
Recreation halls: Some parks provide staffed activity centers with organized programs. "One of the few state parks I have been to that offer a staffed rec hall with activities like scavenger hunts, art contests, and ping pong," notes a Cedar Point visitor.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads: Swan Bay Resort provides level concrete pads suitable for larger rigs. "All of their sites are on slabs, neat and clean hook ups. There is river views from just about every site which is nice and then there are sites right on the river."
Maintenance facilities: Some parks offer specialized RV services. "Great camp. Easy in and out for big rigs. Right on the St. Lawrence River. Many amenities to include 3 bay R.V. wash as well as car wash."
Electric availability: When booking, verify whether electric sites are available as options vary. "When we got there there was no one in the sign in station. No electricity or water hookups. We reserved online and there was a mix up."
