Outdoor Adventures
If nature is what you are searching for, Brockville has it in abundance, with all the comforts of a small city as well. With big blue skies that stretch for days, Brockville’s beauty goes well beyond the city borders. It is surrounded by nature reserves and parks that are protected so they can be enjoyed for generations.
Life in the 1000 Islands can’t be beat. The St Lawrence River brings us so much to enjoy, from boating and fishing to the simple joys of watching birds fly by while you sit at the water’s edge.
The River & Islands
Those who know the river can hear its song – the river is calling. It always is. The 1000 Islands were once known as Manituana, or “Garden of the Great Spirit” by the Iroquois people hundreds of years ago. It first became known as the 1000 Islands in 1687 when Jean Desbayes travelled through the area and first titled it “Les Milles îles”, or translated to English, the 1000 Islands.
Since then, the 1000 Islands has become our nature-filled playground. Home to millionaires and their grand mansions of the 19th century, the 1000 Islands is now a magical mix of old-time opulence and natural beauty. Come and explore our beautiful St Lawrence River and 1000 Islands – you won’t be disappointed.
Cruises
No visit to the 1000 Islands would be complete without a boat cruise through the islands! Brockville has its own boat cruise company in the heart of our waterfront, and there is also another tour company just outside of Brockville in the village of Rockport. Both tours offer amazing views of the 1000 Islands, and are worth checking out.
1000 Islands and Seaway Cruises
Brockville’s very own boat tour can be found on Blockhouse Island – 1000 Islands and Seaway Cruises! Captain Andy has been manning the helm for over 25 years, and he has hosted countless happy tourists over the years.
Looking to experience the eastern end of the 1000 Islands? Enjoy the 90 minute “Jewels of the St.Lawrence” tour! Learn interesting facts about Brockville and its history as you cruise through the islands and past the waterfront mansions on Millionaire’s Row.
Perhaps you’re looking for something that will get your heart racing? Experience the Wildcat, a high speed cruise on a catamaran through the 1000 Islands. There are two options for your high speed adventure – 1 or 2 hours. For the one hour tour, zoom past the islands and take in the sights of Singer Castle, built on the fortune of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. For those wanting to see more, the two hour “Castle Prowler Adrenisland” will let you see both Singer Castle and Boldt Castle, three historic lighthouses, and even see the world’s shortest international bridge!
There are always opportunities for special cruises as well, such as dinner cruises, the Rockin River Revue party cruises, and even chartered cruises. Check out the website and contact Captain Andy for more information about your cruise options!
Rockport Cruises
Just west of Brockville, tucked in between Highway 2 and the river, is the village of Rockport and the home of Rockport Cruises. These cruises go through the heart of the 1000 Islands, and zig zag across the Canada / USA border so you can experience the beauty of both sides of the St.Lawrence River. There are many cruises for you to choose from, all depending on the amount of time you have available to you.
Starting at 60 minutes, the “Heart of the Islands” cruise will let you experience a taste of the 1000 Islands. For those hungry for a bit more, the “Palaces and Palisades” cruise takes you in and around the 1000 Islands for 2 hours and lets you see and learn more about the area. Start by seeing a statue of Saint Lawrence watching over the river named after him, and then cruise through the cottage country referred to as Millionaires Row. These cottages are not your average summer getaways! The cruise even circles Boldt Castle, but doesn’t stop there.
If you’re wanting to see Boldt Castle up close, be sure to check out the “Boldt Castle Tour”. This 4 hour boat tour will take you to Boldt Castle and let you explore the grounds – but don’t forget your passport! Boldt Castle is an American island. If you have a full day to explore the islands and castles of the area, you can check out the “Two Castle Tour.” This tour will let you experience both Boldt and Singer Castle during this six hour cruise.
River Activities
Ship Watching
Visit our Ship Watching page to learn how to identify vessels, and how to determine the exact minute they will pass by your chosen point of observation so you can have the ultimate boat watching experience in Brockville.
Kayaking
If you want to explore the 1000 Islands, one of the best ways to get up close and personal with the islands is by kayak. Kayaking lets you explore the 1000 Islands with a minimum ecological footprint, and there are various opportunities for kayakers, from the beginner to the advanced. The scenery is second to none, and the 1000 Islands region is one of the most biodiverse areas in Canada.
Brockville has 18 islands that are owned by the city, and they are available for day use picnicking and boating, as well as daily, weekly or seasonal camping. For more information about using the City of Brockville islands, including rules and regulations, please check the City of Brockville website.
Looking to join a community of paddlers?
Join Paddlers Place Brockville and Area, a gathering place for kayakers! Their goal is to share tips, hidden paddle spots, and connect water wanderers seeking paddle partners. With a diverse group of members at various experience levels, they welcome beginners and experts alike. Use their group page as a “hub” to post kayak outings, find kayaking partners, and attend Paddle and Pint evenings to meet like-minded people. “Come join us for fun and friendship on the water!”
If you’re not ready to take on the mighty St Lawrence for kayaking, you can always check out Mac Johnson Wildlife Park. This sheltered pond will allow you to have a relaxing paddle through the wildlife park. A canoe launch can be found on Centennial road, near the dam. You can also check out the paddling routes from the Frontenac Arch Biosphere if you’re looking for more than just the St Lawrence River!
If you’re looking to rent a kayak, there are a few places in Brockville that will be more than happy to help you!
Fishing
The 1000 Islands is the perfect place to go fishing. The area is a perfect habitat for bass, and is also home to northern pike and walleye. It’s such a notable bass fishing location, Bassmaster Magazine called the 1000 Islands the best bass fishing location in 2019. You will need a fishing licence from either the Province of Ontario or the State of New York.
Boat Launching
If you are interested in launching your boat in Brockville, there are two city-owned boat launches. One is located off of Water Street at Home Street, and the other is located off of Water Street at Henry Street. Boats can be launched at no charge, however vehicular and trailer parking fees are applicable. Boat launching is also available at Browns Bay Beach and Picnic Area and at Mallorytown Landing.
Other Boat Launch Locations:
Transient Dockage
Online bookings for transient slips are open for the 2024 season.
Tall Ships Marina
Tall Ships Landing full-service marina awaits you. With both seasonal and overnight slips available, Gasoline, Diesel, ice and pump out facilities on site.
We have 80 boat slips with 30 + 50 amp power and water available at each, accommodation for boats up to 60’, as well as launching ramps for your seadoo, canoe or kayak available. Docking also includes access to all amenities at the TSL Club.
Seasons May 15th to October 15th
For more information call us (613) 498-4567 VHF 68
www.tallshipslanding.com
North Channel Fishing
Guided fishing tours on the St Lawrence River. Specializing in smallmouth bass.
22 Frederick St, Johnstown, ON K0E 1T1 | (613) 323-4088 | northchannelfishing.com
Sandra S. Lawn Harbour and Marina
Our riverfront community has kept pace with the lifestyle of today’s pleasure-seekers; providing a top-notch Harbour and Marina, which is considered one of the premiere boating facilities in Ontario. Our courteous, friendly and informative staff provide first class service, and keep boaters from all over North America coming back.
360 Dibble Street West, Prescott, ON K0E 1T0 | (613) 925-2812 | https://www.prescott.ca/recreation-culture/marina/
KELSEY’S MARINA LTD.
Local Marina that is EVINRUDE platinum certified dealer. Sunchaser and Sylvan Pontoons. Smokercraft Fishing boats. Boat rentals. Premium fuel sales. Closed Dec 1 – April 1.
844 WATER STREET, ATHENS, ONTARIO K0E 1B0 | (613) 924-2568 | kelseysmarina.com
Peck’s Marina
Marina with an on-site hotel & eatery offering Canadian food, a full bar & a waterfront patio.
505 – 1000 Island Parkway, Lansdowne, Ontario, K0E 1L0 | (613) 659-3185 | pecksmarina.ca
Village Quay Marina
Village Quay Marina is a full service Marina in a park like setting and private to marina members, creating a great boating community.
541 Thousand Islands Parkway, Lansdowne, ON | (613) 659-3207 | villagequay.com
Scuba Diving
The Brockville area has earned critical acclaim as being one of the best freshwater scuba diving locations in the world. This is due to the clarity of the water, and the lack of thermocline. This unique and rewarding diving experience offers an exploration of century-old shipwrecks and artifacts that are scattered along the river bottom.
Brockville’s Underwater Sculpture Park (Centeen Park Diving)
Just off of Centeen Park, divers will find an amazing place to learn and practice their scuba diving skills. The Brockville Underwater Sculpture Park is a one of a kind experience, where divers will get to learn basic skills of diving without potentially damaging historic shipwrecks. The park is maintained by Save Ontario Shipwrecks (S.O.S).
Dive Brockville Adventures Centre
Dive Brockville Adventure Centre, Brockville’s only full service dive shop, offers a full range of support for divers and adventures for the whole family. Their rental department can offer full diving gear rental or if you just need that one item. They also offer Kayaks, Canoes, Bicycles rental for family fun on or around the river!
Robert Gaskin Shipwreck
The Robert Gaskin is a double masted iron rigged wood barge that was built in Kingston Ont. by Charles W. Jenkings in 1863. She is 113′ x 26′, 3332 ton “carvel” and has a square stern, but no galley or figurehead. Sunk September 18th, 1889, she sits on a firm bottom (with light silt) approximately 400′ off shore, with her bow facing inland. Descending down the bow mooring line is quite impressive as her hull rises some 15 feet off the river bottom. Divers can visit through the hold and exit via the stern hole with quite ease.
Golf
What better way is there to spend a sunny day than on the golf course, taking in a round of golf? When in the 1000 Islands, it’s one of the best things you can do (on land at least!) Brockville has some great golf courses available, so check them out and book your tee-off time early!
Brockville Country Club
Founded in 1914, the Brockville Country Club is an 18-hole course that spans 6343 yards. While this might not be considered long by today’s standards, the course is deceptively challenging. It has considerable elevation changes, narrow and treed fairways, challenging par 3’s and ample sand traps and water hazards. However, there are four tee blocks for the course, so people of all levels can enjoy golfing at the Brockville Country Club! There is also a large practice putting green and driving range, and a short-game practice facility for members and guests to use. For the club’s 100th anniversary, the practice facility was upgraded to become one of the best in Eastern Ontario.
Sunnidell Golf
Sunnidell Golf opened in 1992, and has something for everyone on this 18-hole course. The holes range from 87 yards to 222 yards, and averages at about 135 yards per hole throughout the course. According to Sunnidell, it takes good chipping and pitching to have a successful game at their course. To practice, be sure to visit Sunnidell throughout the winter. Their patio is converted into two golf simulators, which see a lot of action during the snowy season! Also be sure to check out the driving range and their top-level mini putt course.
Smuggler’s Glen
Smuggler’s Glen Golf Course is a championship 18-hole course that opened in 2005. This semi-private golf course is known for its well-balanced design. It is a par 72 course, with 5 par three holes, 5 par-five holes and 8 par four holes. The course features a layout that requires a great deal of accuracy off the tee. With five sets of tees on each hole, this course accommodates and challenges both the new and pro golfer.
Tincap Golf Club
Tincap Golf Club is a 9-hole course that can be found just north of Brockville. It is a semi-private course, with four tees on each hole for varying levels of golfer. The course opened in 2000 and is known for its reasonable prices and friendly staff.
Cedar Valley Golf And Country Club
Established back in 1968 as Sherwood Golf and Country Club, Cedar Valley Golf and Country Club changed to its current name in 1997. This family-run business is a 13-hole course (soon to be 18) is a full regulation golf course, with a driving range and practise facility. There is a full service licensed clubhouse, restaurant and banquet facility, as well as many different ways to participate, including golf leagues, tournaments and memberships.
Prescott Golf Club
Established in 1939, Prescott Golf Club sits just east of Fort Wellington in Prescott. This 18-hole course has excellent views of the St Lawrence River. With their full-service clubhouse, you find everything you need, from the restaurant to the club shop. Their website even has a virtual tour of the course, hole by hole, so you can see for yourself how great this location is.
Crooked Creek Golf Course
An 18-hole facility, Crooked Creek Golf Course is just a short drive from Brockville, in Athens, ON. Built on rolling terrain, there’s an exciting mix of challenges throughout the course. The original farmhouse on the property has been converted into the clubhouse, adding to the charm of the course.
Disc Golf
If you play Disc Golf, you’ll want to play Flyboy Canada One’s free course in Brockville! Opened in June of 2021 with 10 holes, it has now expanded to 19 in spring 2022. They’ve got tight woods, wide open, high bomb, and billy goat steep inclines holes that all play around the scenic creek that cuts through the green belt area between Bartholomew St. and North Augusta Rd. where Brackenreid Park resides. The course has been financially developed and is maintained by the local Brockville Disc Golf Club. As a work in progress, what the course lacks, the community which has truly embraced Disc Golf and its Golfers more than makes up for it. Come and feel the love for Disc Golf in Brockville! You can find the first entrance at 197 Bartholomew St.
Treetop Trekking
Treetop Trekking is Ontario’s original and most exciting tree top zip line adventure. Treetop Trekking is the perfect outing for adventurous families, groups of friends and couples. Their team building packages are perfect for companies, sports teams and community groups. There is something for all ages and abilities.Located 12 minutes from Brockville at 1278 Thousand Islands Parkway, Mallorytown ON
Hikes and Trails
The Brock Trail
The Brock Trail is a paved trail that stretches throughout the city for walkers and cyclists. Beginning at Centeen Park, The Brock Trail runs along the waterfront, through Blockhouse Island, Hardy Park, past the Rotary Park, and then up through the green space surrounding downtown’s residential areas. If you follow the trail to its end, you’ll find yourself at Mac Johnson Wildlife Area. On the way, the Brock Trail intersects with many city parks that have play structures, so the trail is a great way to spend a day with the family. Pack a picnic and explore the city with the whole family through the Brock Trail.
Mac Johnson Wildlife Area
Mac Johnson Wildlife Area isn’t just a great wildlife and conservation area – it’s a wonderful place to take a hike and get in touch with nature. With five trails spanning over 11 kilometres all together, there is a hike for all types, from those looking for a quick walk to those wanting to spend a few hours away from the city without driving too far away. There are five trails – the Wildflower Loop, the Railway Trail, the Old Woods Trail, the Boardwalk Trail and the Jack Pine Trail. Check out the map available on the CRCA website for more details!
Thousand Islands National Park
There are a few great hiking trails available at Thousand Islands National Park, including Jones Creek and Landon Bay. Jones Creek is located along the Thousand Island Parkway between Brockville and Mallorytown Landing. With hikes that range from a quick 20 minute stroll to a moderate two hour hike, Jones Creek has something for everyone. Landon Bay also has some great hikes, including the Lookout Trail. The view from this trail is well recognized as one of the best views of the 1000 Islands, and is well worth checking out. You can find out more about hiking opportunities at Thousand Islands National Park on their website.
All Trails Brockville
On the All Trails website explore the most popular trails near Brockville with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you.
Winter Adventures
Winter in Brockville is a magical time. Bundle up – the wind off the river can be chilly! But if you dress appropriately, the winter is a great time to get outside in the city. One of the highlights of winter life in Brockville is our outdoor skating rink at the Rotary Park. Maintained regularly and constantly being updated by the community, the skating rink at Rotary Park is unlike anything you’ve seen. It’s covered so you can skate even when it’s snowing, and the brand new P&G Pavilion houses a zamboni garage. It also contains a skate changing room, washrooms and covered picnic space.
Maybe you’re less of a skater and more of a skier – no problem! Brockville has the Triangle Cross Country Ski Club. The ski trails are located on the west and east side of Leeds County Road 5. They consist of a mix of Crown land (Ministry of Natural Resources) and various landowners’ property who generously allow the club access. Day users are welcome on the club’s ski trails. It is requested that non-members of the club deposit a $10 contribution towards the cost of maintaining the trail systems in the box located beside the sign at the entrance to the West trail system. The club maintains 35 km of picturesque trails for beginners, intermediate and expert skiers, with 17 km of groomed, track-set trails. There are also 6 km of independent snowshoe trails for beginner, intermediate, and expert snowshoers.
Wildlife & Conservation
If nature is what you are searching for, Brockville has it in abundance, with all the comforts of a small city as well. With big blue skies that stretch for days, Brockville’s beauty goes well beyond the city borders. It is surrounded by nature reserves and parks that are protected so they can be enjoyed for generations.
Thousand Islands National Park
One of Canada’s 39 national parks, Thousand Islands National Park seeks to preserve the heart of the 1000 Islands. Established in 1904, this park can be found along the 1000 Islands Parkway, and is one of Canada’s smallest national parks. Don’t let its size fool you though, there is a lot of beauty packed into those 24.4 square kilometres!
Thousand Islands National Park is best enjoyed by boat, as the park consists of 21 islands. There are also 2 mainland properties, and there are trails that line the 1000 Islands Parkway including Landon Bay, Jones Creek and Mallorytown Landing. Whether you’re looking for just a picnic out of the city, or want a night or two alone on an island, Thousand Islands National Park has you covered. Be sure to learn more about their oTENTiks, found on both the mainland and a few of the islands!
Mac Johnson Wildlife Area
Located north of Brockville, Mac Johnson Wildlife Area is 532 hectares of wetland, field and forest. Maintained by the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority, Mac Johnson Wildlife Area is filled with diversity. The wildlife area is recognized as a Class 1 provincially significant wetland, filled with plants and animals. Originally known as the Back Pond, Mac Johnson Wildlife Area was renamed in 1987 in recognition of a local Conservation Authority member, Mac Johnson.
Mac Johnson Wildlife Area is filled with opportunities to spend the day. There are 11 kilometres of hiking trails available, including an interpretive trail, the Wildflower Loop. There are picnic tables and shelters at the north end of the reservoir, as well as accessible washrooms and a group firepit available for use. There’s also a canoeing access point on Centennial Road, near the Broome-Runciman Dam. Be careful though, you don’t want to run into the trumpeter swans! Mac Johnson has been the home of a Trumpeter Swan Restoration Program since 1999, and on a nice day, you’ll be able to see how successful this program has been!
Lyn Valley Conservation Area
The smallest of the conservation areas maintained by the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority, Lyn Valley is also one of the most popular and busiest of the conservation areas. Lyn Valley is known for its great swimming area, and also has a short hiking trail. The spring-fed pond has been a popular place to learn how to swim for many children in the area, and the sandy beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun. There are even change rooms so you can enjoy a day of swimming!
To locals, Lyn Valley Conservation Area is also known as Lyn Pit, due to its history of being a source of sand and gravel for construction. In the 1880s, Lyn Pit was the source of gravel during the construction of the Canadian National Brockville – Westport Railway. Later, Lyn Pit would help with the improvement of Highway #2, and with the development of highway 401 in the 1960s. In 1973, the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority purchased the Lyn Valley Sand and Gravel Pit for $1, and in the decades since, it has evolved into the beloved swimming area we know today.
UNESCO Sites
The Frontenac Arch Biosphere is part of UNESCO’s “Man and the Biosphere” program. It was initially nominated in 2000 by the community, and was designated in 2002. The area was increased in 2007 to include Frontenac Provincial Park. The Frontenac Arch Biosphere region was Canada’s 12th biosphere region in the “Man and the Biosphere” program. This area now covers an area in between Brockville and Gananoque, and extends north of Kingston to include Harrowsmith, Verona and Westport.
Scenic Views
No matter where you go in the Brockville area, you’re bound to find a view that is postcard worthy. Some of these scenic views are worth pointing out though.
1000 Islands Tower
Nestled in the heart of the 1000 Islands, there is an observation tower on Hill Island called the 1000 Islands Tower. This one of a kind view of the 1000 Islands is found on the Canadian side of the Canada / USA border, right on the 1000 Islands Bridge. Take the elevator 130 metres up and enjoy the first of three observation decks that provide visitors with stunning photo opportunities of the St.Lawrence River and the 1000 Islands. When you’re visiting Brockville, be sure to check out this unique experience and see what this area has to offer.
1000 Islands Helicopter Tours
If you’re looking for that once in a lifetime experience, 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours is what you need. View the 1000 Islands from a helicopter – any time of year – and have that rush of excitement as you lift off and fly over the islands. There are various tours available, where you can see the islands, castles, and the seaway from above!