Wellesley Island, which is situated on the middle of the St. Lawrence River, is home to two state parks and so much more. Visitors to the island may enjoy camping, fishing, boating, and golfing while exploring Mother Nature’s creations.

In fact, Wellesley Island State Parkcomprises three quarters of the entire island. This park is the largest camping park in the state of New York and has 435 camping sites and nearly eight miles of hiking trails. Additionally visitors may stay in cabins or cottages that are heated and open all year.

The island boasts a sandy beach, which is great for picnics and a recreation barn full of activities for children, such as video games and arts and crafts. The island also has two playgrounds for young children and a Nature Center.

Dewolf Point State Park, the island’s other state park, also has campsites and cabins available, as well as boat docks and a stone gazebo.

Visitors may access the island by boat or by crossing the toll bridge that serves as the gateway to the island. While driving around the island, visitors should be sure to drive through Thousand Islands Park, a residential area full of Victorian homes and small shops and diners.

Boaters will enjoy the 148-slip marina and can take advantage of sailing out to one of the many outlying islands for a day of fun. Boats are available for rent.

Visitors may also want to choose to hit a few balls at the 9-hole golf course or relax at a local diner after a day on the water.

Wellesley Island in a Day:

Enjoy waking up in a cabin in one of the island’s state parks. Take a hike around the island and grabbreakfast at a local diner.

Rent a boat and paddle out around the perimeter of the island and visit one of the smaller islands along the coastline. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch to eat as you sail along the river.

View the sunset from the beach or a local restaurant as you relax, eat dinner, and soak up the sights of the beauty of Wellesley Island.

Activities:

• Picnic in one of the two state parks
• Enjoy the homes as you take a scenic drive or walk along the streets of Thousand Islands Park
• Relax on the sandy beach
• Visit the Nature Center
• Hike along the nearly eight miles of trails