St. Lawrence · Ontario
Thousand Islands National Park
Canada's smallest national park — and one of its oldest.
Province
Ontario
Established
1904
Size
24 km²
Coordinates
44.45°, -75.85°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Thousand Islands National Park
A scattering of more than 20 islands and mainland properties along the St. Lawrence River between Brockville and Kingston, this park is best experienced by boat — historic, gentle and rich with reptile and bird life.
Why visit
- Walk-in and boat-in island camping
- Mallorytown Landing visitor centre and beach
- Stargazing along the St. Lawrence
- Easy biking on the Thousand Islands Parkway
Things to do
Plan your days.
Day kayak from Mallorytown
kayaking
Boat to Camelot or McDonald Island camping
camping
Visitor centre interpretive trails
interpretive
Thousand Islands Parkway bike ride
scenic drive
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Mallorytown Landing (mainland) — oTENTiks
- Island sites accessible only by boat
Best time to visit
- Spring
- May–June: cool, fewer boats.
- Summer
- July–August: warmest swimming, busiest river traffic.
- Fall
- September–October: brilliant colour over the river.
- Winter
- Boat service stops; ice fishing on the river.
- Peak
- July through August.
- Shoulder
- June or September.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
Reptiles on the rocky islands; sing the dawn chorus from a hammock.
Common species
Painted turtle · Common loon · Map turtle
Signature species
Black rat snake · Cerulean warbler · Eastern milksnake
Wildlife safety
St. Lawrence currents are strong — kayak with experience and a PFD.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Gananoque
- Brockville
- Kingston
Nearby attractions
- Fort Henry (Kingston)
- Boldt Castle (USA, day-trip)
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
weekend
Mallorytown to Aubrey Island
Paddle out, overnight, paddle back.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Thousand Islands National Park.
Can I camp in Thousand Islands National Park?+
Yes. Thousand Islands National Park operates Parks Canada campgrounds with a mix of frontcountry sites and, on most loops, oTENTik or backcountry options.
Do I need reservations to visit Thousand Islands National Park?+
Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends; a portion of sites may remain first-come, first-served.
Are dogs allowed?+
Yes — dogs are welcome on a leash (max 3 m) throughout the park, but must be supervised at all times and kept off closed trails and beaches with wildlife restrictions.
Is Thousand Islands National Park family friendly?+
Our family score is 8/10. Excellent for families — wide trails, interpretive programs and accessible viewpoints.
When is the best time to visit Thousand Islands National Park?+
July and August. Shoulder seasons reward visitors with fewer crowds and softer light, while winter opens its own set of opportunities (or, in the far north, closes road access entirely).
What wildlife can I see?+
Signature species include painted and map turtles, black rat snakes and cerulean warblers. Always keep at least 30 m from large mammals and 100 m from bears; carry bear spray on backcountry trails.
Can I bring an RV?+
RV access is limited or unavailable; this park is best explored by tent, backcountry travel or day trips from nearby communities.
How many days should I spend here?+
Two to three days.
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