The Thousand Islands are a chain of over 1,865 islands that straddle the US-Canada border in the Saint Lawrence River between Ontario and New York. The islands range significantly in size, from large islands of over 100 square kilometers to small, uninhabited rock outcroppings that are homes to migratory waterfowl. The area is a popular tourist destination for vacationers, campers and boaters due to its fresh water recreational activities.
![The Thousand Islands are a chain of islands that straddle the U.S-Canada border in the Saint Lawrence River as it emerges from the northeast corner of Lake Ontario. The islands stretch for about 50 mi (80 km) downstream from Kingston, Ontario ,[object Object],The Thousand Islands The number of islands was determined using the criteria that any island must be above water level for 365 days per year, bigger than one square foot (roughly 900 cm²), and support at least one tree or shrub. The area is very popular among vacationers, campers, and boaters, and is often referred to as the 'fresh water boating capital of the world.'](https://image.slidesharecdn.com/thousand-islands-1200596554688271-2/85/Thousand-Islands-1-320.jpg)
