Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Thousand Islands National Park, located on the Canadian side of the St. Lawrence River near the U.S.-Canada border, protects 20 islands and several mainland areas surrounded by the 1,864 islands that make up the Thousand Islands region. Established in 1904, it is Canada’s smallest national park but boasts diverse island habitats including mixed forests, wetlands, rocky shorelines, and aquatic environments. The park's islands provide habitats for various bird species, turtles, and the rare least bittern. Historically, the area was home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years and later became popular for summer homes and recreation during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it offers a mix of water-based and land-based activities, such as canoeing and kayaking among the islands, hiking short trails on select islands, camping, birdwatching, and picnicking. Notable landmarks include the serene Gibson Island with historic cabins, the accessible Richards Island’s trails and picnic areas, and the iconic Boldt Castle visible from water routes just across the U.S. border. Visitors are attracted by the peacefulness, scenic water vistas, and opportunities for wildlife observation. Access to the islands is by boat, with public ferry services and private watercraft being the primary means. The park’s proximity to the city of Kingston makes it a popular day trip or weekend escape for both Canadian and American visitors. Its mixture of natural beauty and historical sites makes Thousand Islands National Park a distinctive destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
