Explore the natural side of the 1000 Islands. The 1000 Islands Region is filled with activities that take advantage of this natural paradise. Clayton offers an outdoor recreational playground to enjoy from fishing to kayaking, to diving and snorkeling, to golfing, hiking, boating, biking and camping.
Kayaking is very popular in Clayton, and exploring the islands is a very exhilarating experience. Take a canoe or kayak and venture into the wilderness and wonders of the French Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA). Small game and songbirds are found here in open meadows and hardwood uplands. Waterfowl and furbearers find suitable homes as well in cattail marsh that borders the open waters of French Creek. The WMA is also suitable for hikers and biking.
Three popular hiking/walking trails in Clayton include the Lois Jean and John MacFarlane Trail located at the Zenda Preserve, the S. Gerald Ingerson Preserve, and Foster-Blake Woods Preserve. Trail descriptions can be found at tilandtrust.org.
For the more sports-minded among our visitors we offer several excellent golf courses for golfers of all skill levels. Several area resorts offer golf and accommodation packages as well as meeting rooms and corporate golf tournaments.
Looking to exercise? Head up to Cerow Recreation Park where you can swim a few laps at the outdoor community pool, walk the recreation walking trail, play a set on one of the lighted tennis courts, or shoot some hoops on the basketball court. The Park also offers baseball and soccer fields. Ice skating is available October through early March in the arena during public skating hours.
For those who are looking for a total outdoor adventure, camping opportunities are abound in the Clayton area with both private and NY State Parks offering a wide range of camping options. Campers will find wooded tent sites, full hook ups, clean restrooms, ample picnic tables, hot showers, boat rentals, and nearby access to the St. Lawrence River.