Wellesley Island Provincial Campground

For New Yorkers seeking an unparalleled outdoor adventure, look no further than Wellesley Island State Park Campground. Nestled in the heart of the iconic Thousand Islands region, this expansive campground offers a truly remarkable experience for every kind of outdoor enthusiast. From the tranquil waters of the St. Lawrence River to the lush forests and abundant wildlife, Wellesley Island is a natural paradise right here in our backyard. It's not just a place to stay; it's a destination brimming with activities, natural beauty, and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps campers returning year after year.

Wellesley Island State Park boasts the largest camping complex in the entire Thousand Islands region, providing a diverse range of accommodations to suit any preference. Whether you're pulling in with a large RV, looking to pitch a classic tent under the stars, or prefer the comforts of a rustic cabin, you'll find a perfect spot to call home. Beyond just camping, the park offers an impressive array of amenities and recreational opportunities that cater to families, anglers, hikers, boaters, and nature lovers alike. As one satisfied visitor noted, it's a "lovely campground with a great atmosphere and community. Quite large and much to do. Highly recommend."

Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the river, spending your days exploring picturesque islands, casting a line for trophy fish, or challenging yourself on the golf course, and ending your evenings around a warm campfire under a sky full of stars. Wellesley Island State Park Campground makes this dream a reality, offering a comprehensive and memorable escape without having to travel far from home for New Yorkers. It's an ideal setting to create cherished memories and embrace the vibrant outdoor lifestyle that our state proudly offers.

Wellesley Island State Park Campground is prominently located at 46012 St Lawrence Riv, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607, USA. This strategic position places it directly on Wellesley Island, one of the largest islands in the famed Thousand Islands archipelago, situated in the magnificent St. Lawrence River. For New Yorkers, the drive to this destination is part of the adventure, offering scenic views as you approach this renowned freshwater region.

Accessibility to Wellesley Island is straightforward, primarily via Interstate 81 which leads directly to the Thousand Islands International Bridge. There is a toll to cross the bridge, which provides direct access to the island where the park is located. This makes it an incredibly convenient getaway for residents across upstate New York and beyond, particularly from cities like Syracuse, Albany, and Rochester, with a manageable drive that sets the stage for a relaxing escape.

The park's location on the St. Lawrence River means it's not just accessible by road but also a prime spot for boaters. With its own marina and multiple boat launches, it's easy for those with watercraft to navigate the myriad of islands, explore hidden coves, and enjoy the vast waterways of the region. The proximity to Alexandria Bay also means campers have convenient access to local shops, restaurants, and other attractions, blending the tranquility of nature with the practicalities of nearby services.

• Extensive Campsites: Wellesley Island State Park boasts the largest camping complex in the Thousand Islands region, offering a wide variety of sites. This includes traditional tent sites and numerous RV sites, with options for electric hookups (15, 20, 30, and 50 Amp available). Some RV sites even offer water and sewer hookups for maximum convenience, especially in Loop F. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a ground grill.

• Cabins and Cottages: For those seeking more comfort, the park offers rustic cabins and fully outfitted 2-3 bedroom cottages. The cottages, such as the Eel Bay Cottages, are more like home with full kitchens, furnished living rooms, and private restrooms, providing a "pampered" camping experience. Some cabins and cottages are available year-round.

• Full-Service Marina and Boat Launches: Catering to boating enthusiasts, the park features a comprehensive marina with dock slips. Additionally, there are four boat launches, making it easy to get out onto the St. Lawrence River and explore the Thousand Islands. Boat rentals are also available (14-foot/15HP and 16-foot/20HP boats).

• Comfort Stations & Restrooms: The campground provides well-maintained comfort stations with flush toilets and hot showers. Many of these facilities are accessible.

• Laundromat: For longer stays, a convenient on-site laundromat allows campers to refresh their clothing.

• Camp Store: A well-stocked camp store is available for purchasing essentials, snacks, and camping supplies, ensuring you have everything you need without leaving the park.

• Dump Station & Water Fill-up: Essential services for RV campers include a dump station and water fill-up stations.

• Pet-Friendly: The campground is pet-friendly, allowing up to two leashed pets per campsite in designated areas, though pets are not permitted in buildings or specific cottages. Rabies vaccination documentation may be requested.

• Accessible Amenities: The park is committed to accessibility, with accessible showers, picnic areas, bathrooms, and many campsites. There's also a wheelchair-accessible trail near the Nature Center.

• Minna Anthony Common Nature Center: A jewel of the park, this large nature center sits on a 600-acre peninsula overlooking Eel Bay. It features educational exhibits, live animals, greenhouses, a seasonal butterfly house, and nearly ten miles of trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, and nature education. It offers year-round programs for all ages.

• 9-Hole Golf Course: Unique for a state park, Wellesley Island boasts its own nine-hole golf course. It can even be played in reverse for a full 18-hole game, offering a fantastic recreational opportunity right within the park.

• Sandy Swimming Beach: The park features a large, sandy beach on the St. Lawrence River, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Lifeguards are typically on duty during the peak season (late June to Labor Day), providing a safe and enjoyable environment for families.

• Exceptional Fishing: The St. Lawrence River and its surrounding waters are renowned for fishing. Anglers can target a variety of species, including bass (smallmouth and largemouth), northern pike, walleye, yellow perch, bullhead, and the elusive muskellunge. The park has a fish cleaning station at the marina.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: With over eight miles of trails, including easy paths and those with some moderate sections, hikers can explore diverse habitats like wooded wetlands, granite outcrops, and scenic shoreline views of the St. Lawrence River and Eel Bay.

• Boating and Water Sports Paradise: Beyond the marina, the Thousand Islands region itself is a boater's dream. Kayaking, canoeing, jet-skiing, powerboating, and sailing are all popular activities. Guided boat tours of the Thousand Islands, including trips to iconic landmarks like Boldt Castle, are available from nearby Alexandria Bay.

• Family-Friendly Activities: The park offers an amphitheater, arcade, playgrounds, and various recreation programs, ensuring there's plenty to keep all ages entertained.

• Wildlife Viewing: The park is a haven for wildlife, with frequent sightings of bald eagles, osprey, various bird species, white-tailed deer, beavers, and foxes. The Minna Anthony Common Nature Center provides excellent opportunities for bird watching.

Wellesley Island State Park, as part of the New York State Parks system, may offer various discounts and special rates, though these are typically standardized across the system or specific to certain booking periods. While specific short-term promotional codes can vary and are often found on booking platforms or through direct contact, here are common types of offers New Yorkers might find:

• Off-Peak Season Rates: Camping rates are often lower during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) compared to the peak summer months. For example, cabin rates can be significantly lower in the non-peak season.

• Extended Stay Discounts: While a maximum continuous stay of 14 nights applies, some state park systems might offer slightly reduced weekly rates for cabins. It's always worth checking if longer stays qualify for any savings.

• Military Discounts: Many state parks, including those in New York, offer discounts for active duty and retired military personnel. This often requires presenting a valid ID at check-in.

• New York State Park Passes: While not a direct discount on camping fees, annual Empire Pass offers unlimited day-use vehicle entry to most New York State Parks, which can be a cost-saver for locals planning multiple visits to the park for its day-use amenities like the beach, nature center, and trails.

• Last-Minute Bookings: Sometimes, booking a campsite within a few days of arrival might allow for a one-night stay, which is typically not allowed for reservations made further in advance. This can be useful for spontaneous trips.

For the most current promotions or specific discounts, New Yorkers are encouraged to visit the official New York State Parks website for Wellesley Island State Park or contact the park office directly. Booking platforms like ReserveAmerica, which handles New York State Parks reservations, may also list applicable discounts.

For reservations, inquiries, or more detailed information about Wellesley Island State Park Campground, New Yorkers can use the following contact details:

• Address: 46012 St Lawrence Riv, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607, USA (Note: The park's main office address is often listed as 44927 Cross Island Road, Fineview, NY 13640, which is on the same island.)

• General Information Phone: (315) 482-2722 (This is the main park office number for general inquiries and off-season information.)

• Camping Reservations: Reservations for campsites, cabins, and cottages are typically made through the New York State Parks reservation system, ReserveAmerica. You can visit their website or call their call center at 1-800-456-2267.

• Marina Office: (315) 482-6503 (For boat rentals and specific marina inquiries during its operating season, which usually runs from the first Friday in May to mid-October).

The park is generally open year-round, but full services, including swimming beach lifeguards and boat rentals, are typically available from approximately mid-May to mid-September. It is always best to verify specific operating hours and seasonal availability, especially for off-peak visits.

For New Yorkers, Wellesley Island State Park Campground stands as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for a myriad of reasons. Firstly, its location in the Thousand Islands region, a geographical marvel right within New York State, offers a truly unique and world-class outdoor experience without the need for extensive travel across state lines. The relatively accessible drive makes it a feasible weekend getaway or a destination for a longer family vacation, reducing travel stress and maximizing precious leisure time.

Secondly, the sheer breadth of activities and amenities available caters to every member of a New York family or group. Whether your passion is boating on the majestic St. Lawrence River, casting a line for the region's famous muskie, exploring miles of scenic hiking trails, or simply relaxing on a sandy beach, Wellesley Island has it all. The presence of a golf course and a comprehensive nature center further distinguishes it, offering diverse entertainment options that ensure no one is left wanting for things to do. This extensive offering means families can return year after year and discover new adventures.

The variety of camping options, from full-hookup RV sites to rustic cabins and traditional tent sites, ensures that every New Yorker can find an accommodation style that suits their preference and budget. This flexibility makes it an inclusive destination, appealing to seasoned campers and those new to the outdoor lifestyle alike. The well-maintained facilities, including clean restrooms, hot showers, and a convenient laundromat, add a layer of comfort that makes extended stays enjoyable.

Lastly, the strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere, as highlighted by a local reviewer, contributes significantly to its appeal. It's a place where New Yorkers can connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, share experiences, and create lasting memories in a safe and welcoming environment. Wellesley Island State Park Campground isn't just a place to sleep under the stars; it's a vibrant hub of recreation and natural beauty, perfectly positioned to serve as a beloved escape for all New Yorkers seeking adventure and relaxation in their home state.

Wellesley Island Provincial Campground

46012 St Lawrence Riv, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607, USA