Robert Moses State Park
RV Guide

Introduction

Surrounded by amazing views of forests and wetlands, Robert Moses State Park (Thousand Islands) is an outdoor lovers' paradise, featuring winding trails through fields and overlooks that highlight the breathtaking views. Located next to the Saint Lawerence River on Barnhart Island, this state park is a must for your next RV vacation. The spectacular water views of Robert Moses State Park extend for miles and are simply breathtaking. You'll love soaking in the river air while being surrounded by vast wetlands and forests.

You'll find vast opportunities for outdoor recreation in a spectacular forest landscape. From hiking and fishing to exploring the nature center and boating, this New York state park offers a myriad of outdoor activities.

Once you park your rig at Robert Moses State Park you can venture out onto one of the many hiking trails located throughout the park. For birdwatchers, there are programs at the Nature Center that highlight the native birds in the park. There are numerous species of birds located throughout the park, from owls to hummingbirds. For those looking for an easy hike or stroll, take the short Scotch Pines Trail for your outdoor adventure. If you're interested in geographical locations or monuments, you are able to visit a signpost at the park entrance that highlights where the 45th parallel crosses the park. Robert Moses State Park is a perfect RV destination no matter what time of the year you visit.

If you'd like to explore the surrounding area there are a handful of state parks within 50 miles of this park. Coles Creek State Park is just 20 miles to the southwest and is also on the banks of the Lawrence River. Here, fishermen and boaters enjoy great camping near Coles Creek. Higley Flow State Park is 45 miles south on the banks of the Raquette River and surrounded by heavily wooded hills. Year-round visitors come to enjoy fishing and hiking in this special place.

RV Rentals in Robert Moses State Park

Transportation

Driving

Robert Moses State Park is easily accessible by car or RV, due to it's location seven miles north of Massena in St. Lawrence County, New York, off of Route 37 on the St. Lawerence River. Major shops and gas stations are within five miles of the park so you really don't have far to drive to stock up on supplies or take a break from camp life.

Local roads are paved and will take you wherever you need to go in the park. You'll easily be able to drive from the Visitor Center and Museums to the hiking trails and campground. This state park is partly located on the mainland and Barnhart Island with park access through a tunnel under the Eisenhower Lock. This tunnel has a low clearance so drive through carefully, especially if you're driving with a larger rig.

Should you decide to leave your RV and walk through the campground, it will be a breeze getting to the recreational areas with paved roads taking you the short distance.

Parking

The parking opportunities for RVs and trailers throughout the park are abundant, with five large lots available. You'll be able to find parking spots on Robinson Bay Road, at the boat dock, at the visitor center, at the Park Police Station, and at the campground should you be staying overnight. The park gets busy in the warmer months and parking lots fill up quickly so make sure to find your parking spot early in the day.

Public Transportation

Campgrounds and parking in Robert Moses State Park

Campsites in Robert Moses State Park

Reservations camping

Robert Moses State Park Campground

Robert Moses State Park Campground offers 203 pet-friendly campsites available for RVs and tents from May through October. The campsites are divided between Barnhart, Long Sault, Loop A and B, and River Road. There are 136 sites with electricity, six of them offering 50-amp hookup and the rest offering 30-amp connections.

Amenities at the campground include a comfort station, showers, drinking water, a water refill station, and a dump station. Each site has a gravel pad or grassy area, picnic table, and fire ring. Most sites offer incredible waterfront views and 13 of the sites are lakeside sites. You will be close to the tennis court and volleyball court should you wish to take in a friendly game. Generator use is permitted during certain hours during the day. Only two pets are allowed per campground and quiet hours must be observed at night. Reservations can be made from one day up to nine months in advance.

Cabins

If you'd like to take a break from sleeping in your RV for a night or two then try reserve a cabin. The 15 cabins overlooking the St. Lawrence River on the west end of Campground Road can be reserved for use between May and October. The cabins comfortably sleep four people on single beds in two separate bedrooms. Each cabin has a dining area, living area, bathroom with shower, kitchen with fridge and stove, and private deck. Outside, each cabin has its own picnic table, grill, and fire pit where you can enjoy relaxing meals overlooking the river at any time of the day and night. Remember to bring your own linen as this is not provided.

First-come first-served

First-Come, First Served

All other sites must be rented or reserved for the accessible sites to become available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Seasonal activities in Robert Moses State Park

Off-Season

Visitor Center

If you wish to learn more about the history of the park, park your RV at the Visitor Center and check out the exhibits inside. There are wildlife displays you are able to walk through and learn about the different species the park has to offer. Don't forget to check out the large aquarium that showcases the native fish and turtles that call the park home. The McCullough Visitors Center also gives an informative explanation of how the seaway was built.

Fishing

Some of the best fishing in the northeast is located in St. Lawerence River, so be sure to pack a fishing pole or two during your motorhome stay at Robert Moses State Park. An abundant amount of black bass, walleye, northern pike, and panfish are sure to delight the angler in you. Don't forget to have your fishing license with you whether you are a resident or not. Should you be a non-resident, you are able to purchase a seven day or a one-day fishing license.

Picnicking

Picnic along the St. Lawrence River while you enjoy an afternoon meal at Robert Moses State Park. Picnic shelters are equipped with tables and grills and provide a perfect atmosphere to unwind. There are several locations you cam choose throughout the park so don't feel like you are restricted to the picnic shelters located near the campground.

If you want to arrange a group outing, there are picnic pavilions and a gazebo that can be reserved for large groups at the beach, marina, and picnic areas. The beach gazebo can seat 150 people, and the three pavilions can accommodate between 50 and 300 people. All, except Marina Pavilion, have electric connections available for groups to use.

In-Season

Boating

Should you wish to venture out onto the St. Lawrence River during your RV stay at Robert Moses State Park, there is a marina and a boat launch open from Memorial Day through September for larger vessels. Amenities available include a pump out station and dockage sites for your powerboat or non-motorized watercraft. Do not feel left out should you not have a boat as there are boat rentals available. Spending the day in a boat on the river is the perfect way to relax, whether you're fishing or just enjoying the breath-taking views.

Biking

Robert Moses State Park is an excellent place to bring your bike and head out onto the majestic trails. Once you park your RV you can explore the park quite easily on your bicycle. If you are feeling adventurous you can cycle down the Scotch Pines Trail for a quick and easy trail ride. Should you wish to bike further, consider the River Trail, a one-mile trail that highlights a viewing area that showcases views of the amazing Canadian-US Border, as well as the Robinson Bay Shoreline.

Hiking

Pack those good pair of hiking boots in your RV since there are eight hiking trails for you to venture out on at Robert Moses State Park that vary in length and meander through wetlands, fields, and forests. The hikes cover the area to the west of the park along Robinson Bay Road. If you want an easy hike or stroll consider Scotch Pines Trail. This trail is under a half-mile and stays in the grassy area near the park police. If a longer hike is what you crave, the Ski Trail is perfect. It's a one-mile trail that also takes you through lush grass areas and near the Robinson Bay shoreline. The spectacular views on any of the trails are simply breathtaking.