Mary Island State Park
00 review36661 CEDAR PT.STATE PK.DRIVE, CLAYTON, New York, 13624, United States
Mary Island State Park
$14.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
A flat $14 fee is charged for campsite reservations. No distinctions between standard, hookup, premium, or hike/bike sites.
About this campground
Escape to Mary Island State Park, a hidden gem where adventure begins with a boat ride across pristine waters. This exclusive island sanctuary welcomes only those willing to journey beyond the mainland, rewarding visitors with untouched wilderness where towering trees meet dramatic rocky cliffs. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, setting up camp beneath ancient canopies, or sharing a sunset picnic on weathered stone outcroppings, Mary Island offers an authentic back-to-nature experience that feels worlds away from everyday life.
Mary Island State Park focuses primarily on waterfront camping. Options include traditional campsites suitable for tents and small setups. The park is boat-access only, which adds a unique aspect to the camping experience.
Weather and SeasonsMary Island's climate dances with the seasons, offering unique charms throughout the year. Summer brings gentle warmth perfect for water activities and lazy afternoons in the shade of old-growth forests. As autumn arrives, the island transforms into a camper's paradise—crisp air replaces summer humidity, rainfall becomes less frequent, and the changing leaves create a spectacular backdrop for outdoor adventures. Each season paints the island in different hues, from spring's fresh greens to winter's stark beauty, though fall's comfortable temperatures and clear skies make it the crown jewel of camping seasons.
ElevationPerched at nature's perfect vantage point near sea level, Mary Island rises from the surrounding waters like an ancient sentinel, its rocky foundations creating dramatic vertical landscapes that contrast beautifully with the horizontal expanse of water stretching to the horizon.
Natural Features and SceneryDense forests blanket Mary Island in a verdant embrace, where centuries-old trees create cathedral-like groves that filter sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The island's dramatic rocky outcroppings serve as natural observation decks, offering breathtaking panoramas of the Canadian shoreline and the steady parade of vessels navigating the international shipping channel. These granite sentinels provide front-row seats to spectacular sunrises and sunsets, while the surrounding waters mirror the sky in an ever-changing display of blues and grays.
Geological RegionMary Island showcases nature's architectural prowess through its striking geological features—ancient bedrock erupts through dense forest cover in dramatic rocky outcroppings that tell stories of glacial sculpting and timeless erosion. These natural monuments frame stunning vistas of the international waterway, where the Canadian shore beckons across the channel and maritime traffic provides a constantly changing scene. The island's unique position offers visitors a rare blend of forested seclusion and expansive water views, creating a landscape where earth, water, and sky converge in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites are waterfront but no specific size measurements are provided.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as secluded, providing privacy for campers.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for sites with views of the Canadian shoreline for a picturesque camping experience.
Best CampsitesAll 12 campsites are waterfront, offering privacy and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Acamping party may occupy a site for a maximum of 14 continuous nights before having to leave for 48 hours.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy per site is 6 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwelve scattered waterfront campsites ensuring privacy and seclusion.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Reserve America or through the RA Call Center (1-800-456-2267).
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served availability is limited to reservations made within three days of arrival for one-night stays.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or via the RA Call Center within specific windows outlined under OPRHP rules; cancellations outside these windows may incur penalties.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, camping, and picnicking. The waterfront setting enhances these activities.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies mentioned.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep rocky terrain and required boat accessibility present physical challenges. Wildlife and water hazards may exist.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Within 10 miles of the campground, hospital services are available.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities is available.
Proximity to water featuresAll campsites are waterfront, offering direct access to boating and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsAccessibility via boat-only is a common point of concern. Limited facilities and the small number of campsites may restrict availability.
Campground Map
36661 CEDAR PT.STATE PK.DRIVE, CLAYTON, New York, 13624, United States
Driving directionsAccess the park by boat only. Launch from Keewaydin State Park, which is 2 miles away, or Grass Point State Park, approximately 4 miles over water. A motorized boat of at least 14' is mandatory. Motorboat rentals are available at Keewaydin State Park Marina (315-482-9381) and Wellesley Island State Park Marina (315-482-6503).
The campground is accessible only by boat and requires launch from nearby parks. No bridges or ferries available, making the accessibility somewhat challenging.Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are within 10 miles. Marina services for boat rental also exist nearby.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Mary Island State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the park for its seclusion, waterfront locations, and natural beauty. Accessibility by boat adds to the sense of adventure and isolation.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, the scenic waterfront views, and the opportunity for boating and fishing. Jeffrey Folino commented, 'From a picnic to overnight camping, Mary's Island is...
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Common Concerns
No specific complaints are mentioned in the provided reviews.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to prepare for boat-only access and to bring a motorized boat of at least 14' in length. Renting a boat from nearby marinas is an option.
Seasonal Insights
Weather data indicates that spring and early summer may offer mild and dry conditions, making these seasons ideal for camping. Late fall may bring cooler temperatures and higher precipitation.
Camper Quotes
1. 'From a picnic to overnight camping, Mary's Island is an awesome location. Accessible only by boat, it is a semi-isolated location that is very relaxing.' - Jeffrey Folino
Accessibility Features
No accessibility-related reviews are provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
The park allows pets, but there is a strict limit of two pets per site. Proof of rabies inoculation is required upon check-in, and pets must be leashed at all times.
Last updated August 10, 2025