Nestled in the breathtaking Thousand Islands region, the historic Rock Island Lighthouse beckons visitors to explore its storied past and panoramic vistas. This remarkable landmark, perched upon its own unique Island Rock, offers an unforgettable experience for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a scenic escape on the St. Lawrence Seaway.
Step back in time as you ascend the lighthouse stairs to the lantern room, where you’ll be rewarded with a bird’s-eye view of the stunning archipelago and the shimmering waters that surround Rock Island. Imagine the keepers of yesteryear diligently maintaining the light, guiding ships safely through these intricate waterways. The museum, housed within the keeper’s quarters, further illuminates this rich maritime heritage, detailing the island’s captivating history, the lives of its dedicated keepers, and the significance of the St. Lawrence River to the region.
Beyond the lighthouse itself, Rock Island invites exploration. Wander along the island’s paths, breathe in the fresh air, and soak in the tranquility of this island rock sanctuary. Before departing, be sure to visit the gift shop to find a memento of your visit, allowing you to carry a piece of Rock Island’s charm home with you.
Conveniently located about 4.5 miles northeast of Clayton, New York, in Jefferson County, Rock Island Lighthouse is easily accessible. For those with private boats, docking facilities are available. Clayton Island Boat Tours also provides transportation directly to the island, making it a breeze to plan your visit. Grass Point State Park serves as the nearest launch point for private vessels, a mere 5-minute boat ride to this island rock destination. The island is designed to be partially accessible, ensuring that more visitors can experience its unique allure.
For those seeking a truly special setting, Rock Island Lighthouse offers bookings for weddings and events. Imagine exchanging vows against the backdrop of this historic lighthouse and the expansive St. Lawrence Seaway. For details on bookings and permit requirements, please call (315) 775-6886.
Plan Your Visit:
Rock Island State Park welcomes visitors from dawn till dusk. The buildings, including the Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters, are open from May 11th to September 15th, between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm. Please note that Rock Island is a carry-in, carry-out park.
During opening hours, explore the Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters, climb to the lantern room (please be aware this is not recommended for those with limited mobility), and discover the museum and gift shop. A small admission fee applies; details can be found at https://parks.ny.gov/parks/188/fees-rates.aspx.
Consider the special “Rock Island Tour” offered in partnership with Clayton Island Tours for a convenient one-hour stopover. Contact them at 315-686-4820 or www.ClaytonIslandTours.com for schedules and fees.
Fees and Access:
While most New York State Parks have vehicle entry fees, access to Rock Island itself is wonderfully affordable.
- Admission:
- Adults: $3
- Children (6-12): $2
- Children under 6: Free
- Private Boat Access/Dockage: Free
For frequent visitors to New York State Parks, the Empire Pass card offers excellent value at $80 annually, providing unlimited day-use entry to numerous state parks and facilities. Learn more about admission programs, including the Empire Pass, at https://parks.ny.gov/admission/default.aspx.
A Beacon of History:
Rock Island Lighthouse’s story began in 1847, one of six guiding lights erected along the St. Lawrence River to aid navigation to and from Lake Ontario. Throughout its service, the lighthouse underwent several upgrades and relocations, yet remained remarkably preserved. After faithfully serving for over a century, the light was decommissioned in 1955. In 1977, New York State took stewardship of this island rock and lighthouse, embarking on a restoration journey to share this historical treasure with the public. Today, Rock Island Lighthouse stands as a testament to maritime history and a captivating destination in the heart of the Thousand Islands.
