Keewaydin State Park

On the picturesque banks of the St. Lawrence River lies Keewaydin State Park — a true oasis for those seeking solitude and natural beauty in the Thousand Islands region. This park, located southwest of the charming village of Alexandria Bay, covers more than 114 hectares in New York State, USA.

One of the park's main highlights is its steep rocky cliffs towering over the water. These vantage points offer breathtaking views of passing ocean-going vessels, making it a favorite spot for photographers and observers. Keewaydin harmoniously combines dense forests with a developed shoreline and a modern marina.

The park is known for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent facilities: it has everything for a comfortable stay, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, cozy camping areas, and equipped picnic grounds. It is the perfect starting point for exploring the vast waters of the country's northern border.

To check availability at the marina or to book a campsite, you can use the official contact channels.

At Keewaydin State Park, everyone will find something to enjoy. During the summer season, the main draw is the massive Olympic-sized swimming pool, surrounded by green lawns for sunbathing. If you prefer activities on the water, there is a modern 120-slip marina where you can set off by boat or kayak through the labyrinth of the Thousand Islands.

Anglers will appreciate the abundance of local waters: fishing is excellent both in summer and winter, when the park becomes a popular spot for ice fishing. Hikers can explore winding trails through the forest to cliffside viewpoints, which are ideal for watching giant freighters navigate the river channel.

For those wishing to stay longer, there are well-maintained campsites with fire pits and picnic tables. An evening by the fire, accompanied by the sounds of nature, is the perfect end to an eventful day. Don't forget to check out the historic ruins of the old estate, which add a touch of mystery to your walk.

The park is located at 45165 NY-12, Alexandria Bay, along the scenic NY State Route 12. If you are traveling by car from the town center, the trip will take just 5–10 minutes. Convenient visitor parking is available at the entrance.

For those arriving from further away, the nearest air hub is Watertown International Airport, which is about a 30–40 minute drive by taxi or rental car. Additionally, during the summer season, the park can be reached by water: many boat tours of the Thousand Islands region make a stop at the local marina.

Cyclists and hikers will also appreciate the routes along the banks of the St. Lawrence River, which lead directly to the main gates of this natural gem.

The history of this area as a vacation destination dates back to the late 19th century. In 1893, a luxurious summer residence was built here for James Wesley Jackson, a successful businessman from New Jersey. The massive Renaissance-style mansion had 100 rooms and was proudly named "Keewaydin," which translates from an Indigenous dialect as "Home of the Winds."

In the early 20th century, the estate expanded to include not only living quarters but also tennis courts, boathouses, and manicured gardens. The property later changed hands several times, and in the 1940s, it was transformed into an exclusive social club with a restaurant, becoming a hub for the local elite.

In the early 1960s, New York State purchased the land to create a state park. Despite plans to preserve the historic mansion, the building was demolished. However, observant visitors can still find remnants of the old stone staircase and an ice house at the water's edge, echoing the former grandeur of the private estate.

To simply stroll along the shore and enjoy the views of the St. Lawrence River, you'll need about 1–2 hours. However, the park offers much more, so a standard visit usually takes a half day (about 4–6 hours), especially if you plan to have a picnic or go for a swim in the pool.

If your goal is a full fishing trip, hiking, or if you are traveling with a tent, you should plan for 1 to 3 days. Camping at Keewaydin is a great way to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere and see ocean vessels passing on the river at different times of day.

According to available data, the park grounds are open to visitors 24/7, including weekends and holidays. This allows guests to admire sunrises and sunsets over the St. Lawrence River at any time.

However, the operation of specific facilities, such as the pool or the marina office, is seasonal. Before your trip, it is recommended to check the current schedule for administrative services and amenities on the official New York State Parks website.

The park's location makes it easy to combine outdoor recreation with visits to other iconic spots in the region. Exploring the surroundings will offer a wealth of experiences, from touring historic castles to tasting local cuisine in cozy waterfront pubs.