Tucked among the scenic waterways of the Thousand Islands region, Mary Island State Park offers an intimate island escape that has drawn visitors since 1897. At just 13 acres, this compact state park trades sprawling trails for something rarer — a genuine sense of seclusion on the St. Lawrence River, accessible only by boat.

The island setting is the main attraction here. Arriving by personal watercraft or water taxi, visitors step onto a quiet retreat surrounded by the river’s distinctive granite-studded channels. The shoreline provides excellent spots for fishing, with smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye all common in the surrounding waters. Kayakers and canoeists will find the sheltered passages between nearby islands ideal for paddling, with minimal motorboat wake in the smaller channels.

Picnicking on the island is a favorite activity, with tables positioned to take advantage of river views. Birders should keep an eye out for great blue herons, ospreys, and the occasional bald eagle hunting along the waterline. The island’s modest size makes it easy to explore on foot in an afternoon, with rocky outcrops and mature trees providing natural shade.

The best time to visit is June through September, when water temperatures are comfortable and river conditions are calmest for boat access. Late summer brings warm days, spectacular sunsets over the islands, and fewer crowds than the July peak.

Plan ahead for boat access, pack what you need, and expect a rewarding day on one of the Thousand Islands’ quieter gems.

Explore Nearby

• Finger Lakes National Forest — National Forest in New York
• Mohawk Towpath Byway — Scenic Byway in New York
• Lakes to Locks Passage — Scenic Byway in New York
• Salisbury Center Bridge — Covered Bridge in New York
• Jay Bridge — Covered Bridge in New York