Looking to do a little hunting and fishing around New York's Thousand Islands region? Load up the RV with your gear and set a course for Long Point State Park! Offering almost 300 acres of green space, this state park is a hidden gem for hunters, anglers, wildlife watchers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
If you're seeking a little solitude in nature, Long Point State Park in Three Mile Bay is the perfect place to find it. The park's remote location miles from the hustle and bustle of the city of Watertown makes for a nice, quiet environment to enjoy a variety of recreational activities.
Tent and RV camping is the name of the game at Long Point -- campsites can be found throughout the majority of the park's acreage, so overnight guests will have plenty of spaces to choose from.
Planning a camping trip to Long Point State Park? You won't need to worry about mosquitoes or other biting critters, thanks to the cool bay breezes. However, you'll want to make sure you pack all the supplies you'll need in the campervan; the nearest town is quite a drive away.
The park's paved roads present few road hazards and make the area easy to navigate. Because this park is located in a remote area near other wildlife management areas, campers should pack all the provisions they'll need. The nearest towns are the small communities of Three Mile Bay and Chaumont, where RVers can fill up on gas and do a little antique shopping before hitting the road again. The metropolitan area of Watertown is 30 minutes away, but offers all the creature comforts campers might need.
Day-use visitors might have a little trouble snagging a spot at this state park on a crowded summer day -- only one paved parking lot is available near the park's entrance. Luckily, this hidden gem is rarely crowded. Please note that a vehicle entry fee applies, in addition to camping and boat docking fees.
Reservations are not required to camp at New York state parks, but are always recommended for campers looking to snag an accessible site or one with electric hookups.
With 80 cozy campsites situated on the shores of Chaumont Bay and Long Bay, RV campers at Long Point State Park have plenty of grassy, waterfront spaces to choose from. Select sites offer 30-amp electric hookups, although water and sewer are not provided. Vehicles between 20 and 40 feet long are well accommodated here with two bathhouses, a picnic shelter, a dump station, and a boat launch.
Reservations are not required to camp at New York state parks, but are always recommended for campers looking to snag an accessible site or one with electric hookups.
Note that the park is located in a flood zone; campers would be wise to check the New York state park website for updates on park conditions before setting out. Also, while pets are welcome at all sites, a maximum of two pets per camping party applies. Sites are situated quite close together, so if you're looking for a space all to your own, keep this in mind when making your reservation.
Chaumont Bay and Long Bay both offer excellent fishing opportunities. Pack your fishing rod and try your luck reeling in a crappie, catfish, bass, wall-eye, or perch. Prefer not to harm the fish? Simply sit on the shore and watch the carp swimming around in Long Bay! If you time your visit just right, you might be able to spot bass hiding under the dock at the marina.
Long Point State Park is a paddler's paradise. The boat launch can be found just outside the campground. While there's no fee to use the boat launch, docking fees do apply for those who bring their own watercraft. Even motorized boats are allowed on the lake. Additional restrictions may apply. Be sure to contact the park directly with any questions or concerns before lugging your watercraft to this remote area.
Step out of the motorhome and dip your toes in the cool, refreshing waters of the bay. Most campsites are either on or near the water, so you won't have to walk far to cool off. While swimming is permitted in both Chaumont Bay and Long Bay, practice caution near the boat launch area. When you've had your fill of swimming, spread out a towel on the grass and soak up the stunning view of the sunset over Chaumont Bay.
Waterfowl hunting is a popular activity at this hidden gem during the off-season. Special restrictions do apply, though. Hunting is permitted at Long Point State Park at designated blinds only, and hunters must acquire a permit from the Thousand Islands Regional Office.
Both Long Bay and Chaumont Bay provide a thriving habitat for native waterfowl, including herons, loons, and broadbills. Insects and mammals call the park home, too -- the kids in your camping crew will be delighted to spot a praying mantis or a "walking stick" bug up close. If you're lucky, you might even spot a mink! Please note that feeding the geese is prohibited.
While it's not ideal for large group gatherings or family reunions, this quiet park is the perfect place to host an intimate family picnic. Pint-sized patrons will love the park's new, spacious playground near the front entrance where they can play the day away. A picnic shelter -- and another playground! -- is available in the northernmost loop of the campground.
