Cedar Point State Park wilderness guide
State Park · NY

Cedar Point State Park

Cedar Point State Park offers visitors a beautiful natural escape along the shores of the St. Lawrence River, ideal for fishing, swimming, and camping.

State Park482+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

48

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cedar Point State Park

Cedar Point State Park offers visitors a beautiful natural escape along the shores of the St. Lawrence River, ideal for fishing, swimming, and camping.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Cedar Point State Park is located in Jefferson County, New York, on the scenic banks of the St. Lawrence River. Established in 1898, the park is one of the oldest in the state, known for its rolling landscape dotted with mature trees and wildlife. The park's geography features rocky shorelines and clear waters that present ample opportunities for boating and fishing, particularly for bass, perch, and pike. Visitors can explore a mix of forested areas and open fields, making it a favored site for picnicking, to relax amidst stunning views of the river. History enthusiasts will find interest in the park's past, once part of a grand summer estate for the region's elite. Cedar Point is also popular among campers, offering both well-equipped sites and rustic island camping experiences. With activities ranging from hiking small nature trails to enjoying the swimming beach, the park accommodates a diverse array of outdoor interests.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cedar Point State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ St. Lawrence River Views✦ Fishing opportunities in the river's rich waters✦ Family-friendly campground with modern amenities✦ Rustic island camping experiences
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cedar Point State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cedar Point State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Cedar Point State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cedar Point State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Cedar Point State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cedar Point State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cedar Point State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

A day-use fee is required for vehicle entry.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Cedar Point State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cedar Point State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Cape Vincent, New York
⌖ 6.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cape Vincent, New York

Cape Vincent offers a lakeside outdoor adventure hub with excellent paddling, fishing, biking, and snowmobiling. Located on the St. Lawrence River near the Thousand Islands, it’s a peaceful getaway for all seasons.

Late spring through early fall for water and land activities; winter for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
Explore Town
Upper Town Landing, New York
⌖ 8.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Upper Town Landing, New York

Upper Town Landing, New York, offers a quiet riverside retreat ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing along the Hudson River. Nearby trails and birdwatching spots add to its appeal as a peaceful outdoor destination.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Clayton, New York
⌖ 8.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Clayton, New York

Clayton, NY, is an outdoor playground where paddling the Thousand Islands, hiking scenic trails, and fishing on the St. Lawrence River come together. This friendly river town offers year-round adventure with charming local culture.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Gananoque, Ontario
⌖ 10.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gananoque, Ontario

Gananoque is a friendly town on the St. Lawrence River, perfect for paddlers, hikers, and anglers exploring the spectacular 1,000 Islands. Enjoy boating, cycling, and winter sports with easy access to parks and water adventures.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Kingston, Ontario
⌖ 12.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kingston, Ontario

Kingston is a waterside town packed with outdoor activities. From hiking and biking trails to paddling among the scenic Thousand Islands, it’s a perfect spot for adventure lovers seeking lake, river, and forest experiences.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Calvin, Ontario
⌖ 14.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Calvin, Ontario

Calvin, Ontario is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts offering canoeing, snowmobiling, hiking, and remote camping. Its wild rivers and forest trails make it perfect for adventurers seeking quiet, off-grid wilderness experiences.

Winter and Summer
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cedar Point State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Mastering Wind and Responsibility: The Auxiliary Sail Endorsement in Clayton
ADVEXPEDITION
Clayton, New York
Boat TourADV Bookable

Mastering Wind and Responsibility: The Auxiliary Sail Endorsement in Clayton

A focused, four-hour certification opportunity at the Antique Boat Museum that lets experienced mariners add an Auxiliary Sail Endorsement to a Master’s license so they can legally captain inspected sailboats or vessels carrying more than six passengers for hire.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Ride the River: Hacker Craft Cruise and La Duchesse Houseboat Tour in Clayton
ADVEXPEDITION
Clayton, New York
Boat TourADV Bookable

Ride the River: Hacker Craft Cruise and La Duchesse Houseboat Tour in Clayton

The All Inclusive Admission Package pairs a 45‑minute ride aboard a 30′ triple‑cockpit Hacker Craft with a 30‑minute guided walking tour of La Duchesse and full museum admission—this guide clarifies timing, booking limits, and accessibility.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip