Right in the backyard of the 1000 Islands region, our Lake Ontario communities greet visitors with natural scenery, historical landmarks and family-friendly attractions that highlight the best of Jefferson County’s lakeside lifestyle.
Often called the “Golden Crescent,” this 30-mile stretch of Lake Ontario shoreline from Henderson Harbor to Chaumont offers a distinct charm and lasting memories. The entire eastern shoreline is part of the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary that is home to more than 100 historic shipwrecks.
HENDERSON HARBOR
This quaint maritime community is the launchpad for trophy-fishing adventures for numerous guides and charters who know where lake trout, bass and salmon like to hide. The freshwater destination hosts several fishing derbies and tournaments, along with a historical museum showcasing its nautical past, featuring locally built boats. The Ring of Fire in Henderson Harbor is a long-standing Independence Day tradition that transforms the harbor into a glowing spectacle of hundreds of road flares and “Christmas in July,” featuring a parade and fireworks. The harbor has several food options, including the Westview Lodge, the Gill House, Carbone’s Waterside, and ice cream afterward from Country Belle Farms in Belleville or The Trolley in Henderson. For breakfast, Colleen’s Cherry Tree is amazing, with children getting a small toy afterward from the Treasure Chest.
SACKETS HARBOR
The historic village became a pivotal spot during the War of 1812, where naval and military forces combined to defend the region against the British. The Sackets Harbor Battlefield offers visitors a glimpse into the past through interpretive exhibits and tours of the restored navy yard and military housing, while offering stunning lakeside views. After exploring the Battlefield, head just outside the village to Old McDonald’s Farm. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the farm provides a hands-on agricultural experience where kids can feed goats, watch pigs race and take a hayride through the cornfields. Don’t leave without trying their custard ice cream, made with milk from their own cows. The village also has an excellent restaurant scene, offering everything from upscale Italian to delicious pub fare on the water, including Good Fellos, and The Sackets Boathouse. For breakfast, the locals enjoy either Tin Pan Galley or coffee and pastries from Chrissy Beanz Bakery & Cafe.
CHAUMONT / THREE MILE BAY
These two charming and peaceful waterfront communities on Chaumont Bay offer a slow-paced lifestyle where fishing and boating dominate the warmer months. The area hosts several fishing tournaments. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll through several mom-and-pop stores and several dining spots that can put you in a food coma. Wise Guys Ristorante is amazing for homemade Italian, the Tico’s for authentic Mexican and recently opened The Waypoint Bar & Grille. Be sure to stop at Laker’s Sweets & Treats for ice cream and frozen yogurt.
NEW YORK STATE PARKS
Southwick Beach State Park: The protected sand dunes abut over 3,500 feet of amazing beach for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking. It also offers lakeside camping for enjoying those summer sunsets.
Robert G. Wehle State Park: Spectacular lake views from atop limestone cliffs carved by crashing waves and wind. The former military training area and kennel for English Pointers boasts over 10 miles of scenic hiking trails and remnants of WWII-era pillboxes.
Westcott Beach State Park: Nestled in Henderson Bay, the park’s extensive campsites and picnic spots offer the ideal spot for families to swim, relax on the sandy beaches or barbecue. It is a great place to spend the day.
Black Pond Wildlife Management Area: A true hidden gem featuring a boardwalk through scenic woods and wetlands that leads to a pristine, secluded beach.
Long Point State Park: This remote park on a peninsula on Chaumont Bay flaunts a serene camping retreat with a boat launch, along with great fishing.
Camping Reservations for any state campground are available through reserveamerica.com