Thousand Islands State Park is a public state park in Hawaii near Village of Alexandria Bay in Jefferson County County. Spanning 23 acres and established in 1913, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Hawaii |
| Nearest City | Village of Alexandria Bay |
| County | Jefferson County |
| Park Size | 23 acres |
| Established | 1913 |
Location & Getting There
Thousand Islands State Park is located near Village of Alexandria Bay, Hawaii. The park’s coordinates are 44.3217304, -75.9259153.
Things to Do
Hawaii state parks protect some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth — from active volcanic calderas and tropical rainforests to pristine coral reef bays and dramatic sea cliffs. Activities include hiking through lush valleys and along volcanic crater rims, snorkeling in crystal-clear protected bays, swimming at world-class tropical beaches, surfing legendary breaks, camping in beachfront and forest settings, kayaking along Na Pali-style coastlines, stargazing at high-altitude sites, and exploring ancient Hawaiian heiau (temples) and petroglyph fields.
Best Time to Visit
Hawaii parks are a year-round destination with consistently warm temperatures (75-85°F). The dry season (April–October) offers the best beach and hiking conditions. The wet season (November–March) brings bigger surf on north shores, whale watching (humpbacks arrive December–April), and lusher waterfalls, though trail conditions can be muddy. Windward (east) sides of each island receive significantly more rain than leeward (west). High altitude parks like Haleakalā can be cold (below 40°F) — bring layers regardless of season.
Visitor Tips
Most Hawaii state parks are free to enter, though some popular sites require advance reservations and parking fees. Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay require mandatory advance reservations. Camping permits must be obtained through the DLNR website in advance. Respect Hawaiian cultural sites — never remove rocks, sand, or artifacts. Many trails close after heavy rain for safety. Reef-safe sunscreen is required by law in Hawaii. Always check current conditions before hiking, as flash floods are a real danger in valley trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Diamond Head?
Yes, Diamond Head State Monument now requires mandatory advance reservations for all visitors. Reservations can be made online through the Hawaii DLNR website. Walk-ups are not permitted without a reservation.
Is reef-safe sunscreen required in Hawaii?
Yes, Hawaii law requires the use of reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs. Sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned. Look for sunscreens labeled “reef-safe” or “mineral-based.”
Are Hawaii state parks free?
Most Hawaii state parks are free to enter. Some popular sites like Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay require paid reservations. Camping permits must be obtained through the DLNR website in advance.
Can I camp at Hawaii state parks?
Yes, several Hawaii state parks offer camping including Polihale and Koke’e on Kauai, and Hapuna Beach and Kalopa on the Big Island. Permits must be obtained in advance through the Hawaii DLNR.
Explore More Hawaii State Parks
Thousand Islands State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Hawaii. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Hawaii guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Thousand Islands SP — in the heart of the Thousand Islands region on the St. Lawrence River — provides camping and river access among 1,864 islands spanning 50 miles. The region — where the Canadian Shield meets the Adirondacks — supports bald eagles, osprey, and great blue herons. Muskellunge (world-class fishing), smallmouth bass, and northern pike inhabit the channels. River otters play among the islands.
Nearby Attractions
Alexandria Bay — nearby — has Boldt Castle and Singer Castle. Clayton — nearby — has the Antique Boat Museum. Wellesley Island SP — nearby — has the Nature Center. Thousand Islands Bridge — connecting to Canada.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Cedar Point State Park (a short drive away) or Keewaydin State Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Thousand Islands State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are permitted in most state parks and campgrounds (maximum two pets per site where allowed), but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 ft required, pet under control at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on guarded beaches, boardwalks, pools or spray-grounds
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- No uniform statewide rule — pets are prohibited in buildings and most cabins, but some parks designate pet-friendly cabin areas (e.g. Letchworth Cabin Area C); check with the individual park
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Proof of rabies vaccination required upon request; maximum two pets per campsite; some parks (e.g. Wildwood State Park) do not allow pets at all
Are dogs allowed at Thousand Islands State Park?
Pets are permitted in most state parks and campgrounds (maximum two pets per site where allowed), but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parks.ny.gov. More: New York state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Thousand Islands State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near Clayton
from $23
from $84
from $32