Along the border of the United States and Canada, along the Saint Lawrence River right outside of Lake Ontario, you’ll find a 50 mile stretch of water that holds a collection of islands more breathtaking than any you will see anywhere else in your life.

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The 1000 Islands actually total 1,865 in number and range in size from just over 1 square foot up to 40 square miles. Some stand alone and house a single tree, others have space for one home, while even more provide miles of land for communities, campgrounds, and boaters.

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About the 1000 Islands

Official calculations stipulate that in order for a plot of land to be considered an island there must be at least one square foot of land visible above the water level 365 days out of each year. The islands on the Canadian side of the collection are considered part of Ontario while the islands on the United States side are considered part of the state of New York.

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At one point in time the Indians referred to the 1000 Islands region as “Manatoana” which translates to “Garden of the Great Spirit.” Today this stunning garden of islands is one of the most renowned vacation destinations in the world.

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The islands have grown into an incredible popular tourist destination and the waterways between the islands are considered some of the best sport fishing destinations in North America. It’s not uncommon to find a professional tournament in Oneida Lake, the Saint Lawrence River, or even in Lake Ontario.

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1000 Islands Attractions

There is certainly no shortage of things to do in the 1000 Islands area. There are dozens of opportunities to participate in adventure sports, play a few rounds of golf, or even try your hand at hunting or fishing.

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If you’re visiting from the Alexandria Bay, NY area you’ll want to stop by Dive1000Islands.com before your trip. This incredible website was designed by divers to teach other divers about the best places and ways to dive in the 1000 Islands area. Beneath the waters you’ll find more than four centuries worth of history, including sunken schooners, freight carriers, and natural reefs. Divers should proceed with caution in order to avoid causing damage to any of the remains.

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There are, of course, a number of other dive companies in the area. Hunts Dive Shop in Clayton, NY provides rentals, instruction, and air tank services between the months of May and November. 1000 Islands Diving Adventures offers group dive trips between May and September featuring supervised dives to some of the area wrecks.

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There are several incredible golf clubs in the 1000 Islands area. One of the most popular is the Highland Meadows Golf & Country Club in the Watertown, NY community. The golf course features a par 72, 18-hole course complete with a pro shop, private lessons, a driving range, and more. Those tagging along for the experience can relax on the club deck while enjoying views of the course below.

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Not everyone is interested in golfing or diving. Those with more refined tastes will enjoy a cruise on the 1000 Isle Lady – a yacht charter offering trips ranging from 4-6 days. While on the charter you’ll get to see the islands up close and personal with special trips to lighthouses, parks, shipwrecks, and restaurants the average tourist doesn’t usually have the opportunity to see.

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Anyone interested in visiting a historic attraction will enjoy a trip out to Heart Island, the home of the Boldt Castle and Boldt Yacht House. This 120-room castle was built during the early part of the 20^th century and is certainly a sight you won’t want to miss. You can only access the island by water taxi, tour boat, or private boat. Those visiting from Canada must make sure they have proper ID on hand because they will have to pass through customers.

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Camping on the 1000 Islands

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There are several different camping opportunities littered throughout the 1000 Islands. The best are the ones that leave you on specific islands instead of merely nearby on the mainland.

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Mary Island State Park (on Mary Island) is a camping favorite. The park can only be accessed by boat and features 12 waterfront campsites over 12 acres of land. This is the perfect place for families who want to bring their pets on vacation with them as dogs and other household pets are welcome as well.

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Canoe Point State Park on Grindstone Island is another campground that can only be accessed by boat. The island features 25 individual camp sites and a small handful of cabins. This island features a few additional amenities, including showers, and is also pet-friendly. You’ll enjoy making this park your base camp as you explore all that the 1000 Islands has to offer.

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The 1000 Islands are worth a special trip, whether you can stay for a week or only for a day. The magnificence of seeing nearly 1,800 islands of varying sizes in such close proximity is something you won’t truly believe until you see it for yourself.