Wellesley Island State Campground

- Wellesley Island, NY 13640

Introduction / Overview

Wellesley Island State Campground is a flagship destination within the New York State Parks system and serves as the largest camping complex in the celebrated Thousand Islands region. This sprawling park offers New York residents a uniquely diverse outdoor experience, perfectly combining the rustic beauty of the St. Lawrence River archipelago with a host of modern, family-friendly amenities.

Situated on the picturesque Wellesley Island, the campground boasts over 400 total campsites, ensuring there is truly "something for just about everyone." Whether your preference is a full-service RV site with water, sewer, and electric hookups, a shaded tent site right on the river's edge, or a fully furnished vacation cottage, this park accommodates all styles of outdoor lodging. The sheer variety is evident in the multiple camping loops—including Acorn, Blue Jay, Coyote, Deer, and Fox—each offering a slightly different atmosphere, from wooded and secluded to open and equipped for large recreational vehicles.

Visitors frequently praise the peaceful atmosphere, with many noting the relatively low noise levels even during peak season, a testament to the size and layout of the grounds. The ability to camp so close to the majestic St. Lawrence River, with views of the water and access right from the campsite, is a highlight that keeps generations of New Yorkers returning year after year.

Location and Accessibility

Wellesley Island State Campground is located on Wellesley Island, situated within the St. Lawrence River in Jefferson County, New York. This stunning setting places you directly in the heart of the Thousand Islands, offering unparalleled access to the region’s famed boating and scenic beauty.

The island itself is accessible via the Thousand Islands International Bridge System, though visitors should be aware that a toll is required to cross the bridge. The physical address for the campground is simply Wellesley Island, NY 13640, USA. While it feels like a remote, island getaway, the park is conveniently located near key area attractions and towns. The charming community of Thousand Island Park is only about a fifteen-minute drive away, and the vibrant villages of Clayton and Alexandria Bay are also within easy driving distance, providing access to restaurants, shopping, and historical sites like Boldt Castle.

The expansive nature of the park means that internal accessibility is excellent, with well-maintained roads leading to all loops and facilities, though campers with larger rigs appreciate being mindful during wet conditions. The central location provides a fantastic base for exploring both the American and Canadian sides of the river region.

Services Offered

Wellesley Island State Campground provides an extensive range of accommodations and services, making it one of New York State’s most full-featured camping parks:

• Diverse Camping Options: Over 400 sites are distributed across various loops, including secluded tent sites, electric-only sites (20- to 50-amp availability), and highly sought-after full hookup sites (water, sewer, and electric), primarily in the Fox Loop area.
• Alternative Lodging: For those seeking greater comfort, the park offers rustic cabins and a colony of twelve fully outfitted vacation cottages, complete with kitchens, full bathrooms, bedding, and utensils.
• Camp Store and Laundry: A central camp store provides essential supplies, souvenirs, and is home to both laundry facilities and an arcade, though off-season hours may vary.
• Full-Service Marina: The park features a full-service marina with a sewage pump-out station, offering boat dockage for campers, motorboat rentals (14-foot and 16-foot fishing boats), and multiple boat launches for private vessels.
• Comfort Stations: Well-maintained comfort stations with modern restrooms and hot showers are available throughout most campground loops.
• Recreation Barn and Playgrounds: A recreation barn and three separate playgrounds ensure entertainment options for children of all ages.
• Group Camping: Facilities are available to accommodate large groups wishing to camp together.

Features / Highlights

The unique highlights of Wellesley Island State Campground center on its premier location and its outstanding natural and recreational features:

• Waterfront Access and Views: Numerous sites are situated directly on the St. Lawrence River or on the tranquil Eel Bay, providing stunning water views and the opportunity to launch a canoe or kayak right from the campsite.
• The Minna Anthony Common Nature Center (MACNC): Located within the park, the MACNC is one of the largest nature centers in the state system. It features educational displays, live animals, a gift shop, and seasonal attractions like the butterfly house. It is the hub for educational and recreational programs year-round.
• Guarded Swimming Beach: A beautiful sandy beach on the St. Lawrence River offers safe swimming and sunbathing, notably featuring seasonal lifeguard coverage, a major reassurance for families.
• Wellesley Island State Park Golf Course: Campers have the convenience of an on-island, 9-hole public golf course, adding a unique recreational option not often found at state campgrounds.
• Extensive Trail System: The Nature Center maintains miles of multi-use trails, including an accessible 1/4-mile trail, ideal for hiking, walking, birdwatching, and enjoying the varied habitats, including wooded wetlands and granite outcrops.
• World-Class Fishing: The St. Lawrence River and surrounding waters are renowned for excellent fishing, with a variety of species including muskie, smallmouth bass, and pike, making it a dream destination for anglers.

Contact Information

For general inquiries or to reach the main office for information outside of the online reservation system, please use the following contact details:

Address: Wellesley Island, NY 13640, USA

Phone: (315) 482-2722 (Park Office)

Phone: (315) 482-2479 (Minna Anthony Common Nature Center)

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For New York residents looking for an unparalleled and diverse summer retreat, Wellesley Island State Campground in the Thousand Islands is an essential destination. Its suitability lies in its ability to cater to every kind of camper, from those who seek deep solitude in a primitive, walk-in tent site, to families who require the full luxury of a furnished cottage and full RV hookups.

This facility offers a rare combination of convenience and natural spectacle. You can wake up on the St. Lawrence River, spend the morning golfing or engaging in educational programs at the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center, spend the afternoon swimming under the watchful eyes of lifeguards, and cap the day off with world-class fishing. The multi-generational appeal is strong; as one customer noted, returning to camp here after decades brings back cherished childhood memories, proving its enduring quality. Wellesley Island State Campground is not just a place to sleep; it’s a fully featured resort immersed in the unique geography of the Thousand Islands, making it a proud and valuable jewel in the New York State Parks crown for local users.

Wellesley Island State Campground

Wellesley Island, NY 13640, USA