Adventures in Boating: The Thousand Islands of the Saint Lawrence River
Not to be confused with Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands, the Thousand Islands region is a picturesque archipelago that straddles the Canada—U.S. border along the Saint Lawrence River and the eastern part of Lake Ontario. Comprising over 1,800 islands, this enchanting area is renowned for its natural beauty, historic significance and recreational opportunities.
A geological marvel, islands in the region range in size from tiny outcroppings to large and inhabited land masses. The area is known for its lush forests, rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters, which create a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore from private boat dock rentals or marinas.
The Thousand Islands extend from the northeastern corner of Lake Ontario for about 50 miles between Kingston, Ontario, Canada and Brockville, Ontario, Canada. They form a scenic boundary between New York and Ontario, Canada. The islands are part of the larger Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated site that highlights the region's ecological importance.
A few of the islands include:
- Wolfe Island (the largest at 27 miles long by 9 miles wide)
- Howe Island (the second largest at 9 miles long by 3 miles wide)
- Grindstone Island
- Dark Island
- Carleton Island
- Ironsides Island
- Murray Isle
- Sugar Island
- Zavikon Island
- Just Room Enough Island (the smallest inhabited island in the world)
History and Culture
The Thousand Islands have a history that dates back thousands of years to indigenous peoples such as the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois). European exploration and settlement began in the 17th century, and the region became a strategic location during the War of 1812.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Thousand Islands became a popular retreat for wealthy Americans and Canadians. Many built extravagant summer homes on the islands. One of the most famous is Boldt Castle on Heart Island, built by hotel magnate George C. Boldt. Today, these historic homes add to the region's charm and attract numerous visitors from marinas and private boat lift rentals.
Recreation and Tourism
The Thousand Islands region is a popular area for outdoor activities. Boating is particularly popular, and there are numerous marinas, boat tours and private boat slip rentals available to explore the scenic waterways. Thanks to the area's abundant fish species and calm waters, fishing, kayaking and sailing are also favorite pastimes.
The region offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. Several parks, including the Thousand Islands National Park in Canada and Wellesley Island State Park in New York, provide trails and camping facilities. The area's biodiversity makes it an excellent spot for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife from private boat lifts for rent.
Tourism is a vital part of the local economy, with visitors drawn to the area's natural beauty, historic sites and recreational activities. In addition to outdoor pursuits, the Thousand Islands offer cultural attractions such as museums, art galleries and annual events like the Thousand Islands International Bridge Celebration.
Key Attractions
- Boldt Castle: With its fascinating history and stunning architecture, this iconic castle on Heart Island is a must-visit.
- Singer Castle: Located on Dark Island, this castle offers guided tours showcasing its medieval-style design and hidden passageways.
- Thousand Islands National Park: Canada’s oldest national park east of the Rockies, it offers hiking trails, camping and beautiful scenery.
- Wellesley Island State Park: One of New York's largest parks, it has a nature center, hiking trails and excellent fishing spots.
- Antique Boat Museum: Situated in Clayton, New York, this museum celebrates the region’s rich boating history with a vast collection of vintage boats.
- Rock Island Lighthouse State Park: Located in the Saint Lawrence River, the park has a lighthouse and docking facilities.
The Thousand Islands region is a unique and captivating destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, history and recreational opportunities from private boat docks for rent. Whether you're exploring its scenic waterways, visiting historic castles or enjoying outdoor activities, the Thousand Islands provide an unforgettable experience for visitors from both sides of the border.
