Campgrounds Near Thousand Islands Island Hopping

Best Campgrounds Near Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands region offers diverse camping options on both sides of the border. We've selected 12 outstanding campgrounds that showcase the variety available, from well-equipped KOA resorts to scenic state and provincial parks. These campgrounds range from waterfront sites with marina access to wooded retreats just minutes from the river. Each offers something unique for RV travelers exploring this historic waterway.

How Far Are Campgrounds From Thousand Islands?

Campgrounds in the Thousand Islands region are distributed along both sides of the St. Lawrence River, with most clustered within 30 minutes of the main attractions. On the Canadian side, campgrounds along the Thousand Islands Parkway between Kingston and Brockville offer the most scenic access. On the American side, the Clayton and Alexandria Bay areas provide the closest camping to popular boat tours and Boldt Castle.

Drive times vary based on your starting point. From Kingston, Ontario, expect 30-45 minutes to reach campgrounds near Gananoque or Ivy Lea. From Watertown, New York, Alexandria Bay campgrounds are about 25 minutes away. During peak summer weekends, allow extra time for traffic along Highway 401 and Interstate 81 corridors.

The Thousand Islands International Bridge connects the Canadian and American sides, making it easy to explore campgrounds and attractions on both sides of the border. Most campgrounds are accessible year-round, though many close between November and April due to winter conditions.

Why Thousand Islands Is a Popular Camping Destination

The Thousand Islands region draws visitors with its unique combination of natural beauty, rich history, and endless water recreation. The archipelago's 1,800+ islands create a maze of channels perfect for boating, kayaking, and fishing. Historic attractions like Boldt Castle and Singer Castle offer glimpses into the Gilded Age when wealthy families built elaborate summer retreats on private islands.

For RV campers, the region offers the rare combination of waterfront access and full-service amenities. Unlike remote wilderness camping, Thousand Islands campgrounds provide the convenience of nearby towns like Kingston, Clayton, and Alexandria Bay while maintaining a natural setting. This makes it ideal for families and those who appreciate comfortable camping without sacrificing scenic beauty.

The fishing alone draws thousands of visitors each year. The St. Lawrence River is renowned for bass, pike, and muskie, with numerous fishing tournaments held throughout the summer. Add world-class scuba diving among historic shipwrecks, scenic cruises through the islands, and proximity to major cities like Ottawa and Syracuse, and it's clear why Thousand Islands remains a premier RV destination.

Best Time of Year to Camp Near Thousand Islands

Peak camping season in Thousand Islands runs from late May through early September, with July and August being the busiest months. During this time, expect warm temperatures averaging 75-85°F, ideal for swimming and water activities. However, this popularity means campground reservations should be made months in advance, especially for waterfront sites and holiday weekends.

Shoulder seasons offer excellent alternatives for flexible travelers. Late May and early June bring warmer days with fewer crowds and easier campsite availability. September through mid-October provides stunning fall foliage along the St. Lawrence corridor, with comfortable temperatures and significantly reduced crowds. Many campgrounds offer discounted rates during these periods.

Winter camping is limited in the region, as most campgrounds close between November and April. However, the area transforms into a winter wonderland with ice fishing opportunities and cross-country skiing. A few hardy RVers with four-season rigs can find limited options, but services and attractions are significantly reduced.

Using an RV as a Basecamp Near Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands region is ideal for basecamp-style RV camping, where you park in one location and explore the area through day trips. A centrally located campground near Gananoque or Clayton puts you within easy reach of attractions on both sides of the border. This approach saves time compared to moving your RV daily and lets you explore without towing concerns.

A typical week-long itinerary might include a boat cruise to Boldt Castle one day, kayaking through the islands another, fishing excursions, a trip to Kingston's historic downtown, and a visit to the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton. End each day returning to your campsite with full hookups, comfortable beds, and your own kitchen.

For photographers and nature enthusiasts, the basecamp approach allows you to chase the best light. Sunrise over the St. Lawrence from your campsite, golden hour at a scenic overlook, or returning after sunset from a dinner cruise in Alexandria Bay—all are possible when your home base remains constant.

Nearby Areas Worth Exploring

Prince Edward County, about 90 minutes southwest of Thousand Islands, offers a completely different experience with its wine country, artisan food scene, and famous Sandbanks beaches. RVers can combine a Thousand Islands trip with a few nights in The County for wine tasting and beach time.

Ottawa, Canada's capital, lies about 90 minutes north and offers world-class museums, the Rideau Canal, and Parliament Hill. Several campgrounds between Thousand Islands and Ottawa make it easy to include the capital in an extended trip.