Thousand Islands National Park of Canada

Thousand Islands National Park is located in southeastern Ontario, Canada, along the Saint Lawrence River near the U.S. border. This picturesque park spans over 20 islands and several mainland properties between the cities of Kingston and Brockville. The nearby towns of Gananoque and Rockport serve as gateways to this island paradise. Established in 1904, Thousand Islands National Park is one of Canada's oldest national parks. It was initially created to preserve the unique natural beauty and biodiversity of the Thousand Islands region, which is renowned for its scenic waterways, rich history, and abundant wildlife. Parking facilities at Thousand Islands National Park are available at several mainland access points, including the main visitor center in Mallorytown Landing. There are designated parking areas with specific rules regarding fees, typically ranging from hourly to daily rates. Some of the islands have docking facilities, but visitors usually reach these areas by boat or kayak. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, beavers, mink, and numerous bird species such as ospreys, herons, and bald eagles. The waters around the islands are rich in fish species, including bass, pike, and muskellunge. The flora of the park is equally diverse, featuring a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees, including maple, oak, pine, and cedar. The islands' unique microclimates support rare plant species, such as the pitch pine and the eastern red cedar. Key landmarks within the park include the scenic Admiralty Islands, the historic Half Moon Bay, and the interpretive trails on the mainland. The Thousand Islands Parkway offers breathtaking views and is a popular route for cyclists. Public transportation options to the park are limited, but the area is accessible by car via the 401 Highway. Boat tours from nearby towns are also a popular way to explore the park's islands.