The park's diverse ecosystems support a rich variety of wildlife. Large mammals include white-tailed deer and coyotes, while smaller species like raccoons, red foxes, and various rodents are common. The region is particularly important for birds, with over 200 species recorded, including ospreys, great blue herons, and various waterfowl. The waters around the islands are home to numerous fish species, including northern pike, smallmouth bass, and muskellunge. The park also provides habitat for several species at risk, including the gray ratsnake and Blanding's turtle.
The park showcases a diverse range of plant life characteristic of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Lowlands forest region. The islands support mixed forests dominated by eastern white pine, red oak, maple species, and various hardwoods. The park is also home to several rare plant species, including the Deerberry and the Five-lined Skink's preferred habitat of pitch pine. Wetland areas feature cattails, water lilies, and various aquatic plants, while rocky outcrops support unique lichen communities and stress-tolerant vegetation.
The Thousand Islands are part of the Frontenac Arch, an ancient granite bridge connecting the Canadian Shield to the Adirondack Mountains. These islands were formed over a billion years ago and were further shaped by glacial activity during the last ice age, which ended approximately 12,000 years ago. The landscape consists of exposed Precambrian rock, creating the characteristic rounded granite outcrops and deep channels between islands. This unique geological formation creates the perfect environment for the diverse ecosystem that exists today.
The Thousand Islands region has been inhabited for thousands of years, first by Indigenous peoples including the Haudenosaunee and Mississauga Anishinaabe. European settlement began in the late 18th century, and the area became a popular tourist destination during the Gilded Age when wealthy Americans built elaborate summer homes on various islands. The park was established in 1904 as St. Lawrence Islands National Park, making it the oldest national park east of the Rocky Mountains in Canada. It was renamed Thousand Islands National Park in 2013 to better reflect its geographic location and cultural significance.
The park encompasses approximately 20 islands and numerous islets spread across the St. Lawrence River, with mainland properties at Mallorytown Landing and Jones Creek. Key attractions include historic Mallorytown Landing Visitor Centre, the century-old Landon Bay Centre, and numerous hiking trails offering spectacular river views. The park is renowned for its water-based activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and boating among the islands. Several islands feature docking facilities and oTENTik accommodations, which are a cross between a tent and rustic cabin, providing unique overnight experiences. The park also contains several historic buildings and structures, including the Mallorytown Landing lighthouse and various heritage cottages.
Thousand Islands National Park experiences four distinct seasons typical of southeastern Ontario. Summers (June-August) are warm and humid with average temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F), making it ideal for water activities. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are mild with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F), offering comfortable conditions for hiking and wildlife viewing. Winters (November-March) are cold with temperatures often below freezing, averaging -5 to -10°C (23-14°F), with occasional snowfall creating opportunities for winter activities like cross-country skiing.
Canada
44.4500°, -75.8830°
1904
24.4
Thousand Islands National Park consists of several mainland properties and over 20 islands between Kingston and Brockville. It is one of Canada's smallest national parks, featuring granite islands, sheltered bays and rugged headlands. The park is part of the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve and provides crucial habitat for many species.