Irondequoit Bay State Marine Park

Park Overview

Found in Monroe County, New York, Irondequoit Bay State Marine Park spans 44 acres at the northeastern corner of Irondequoit Bay where it meets Lake Ontario, just north of Rochester. Having undergone recent renovations, this park provides a peaceful retreat for families and nature lovers alike.

The tranquil setting is perfect if you're looking to escape the urban hustle - here you can soak in beautiful bay views while spotting local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for Canada geese waddling about, various aquatic birds skimming the water's surface, and if you're lucky, majestic swans or even eagles soaring overhead.

Boating and Fishing Access

At its heart, this park is really about getting out on the water. With three clean, concrete boat launch ramps, you can easily get your small or power boat into Irondequoit Bay and out to Lake Ontario.

You won't struggle with parking - there's plenty of space for vehicles and trailers, with designated areas for launching and retrieval. For added peace of mind, the area is well-lit and regularly patrolled by police.

If paddling is more your style, there's a separate kayak/canoe launch near the playground, safely away from the larger boats. This makes for especially enjoyable kayaking and canoeing during early spring and late fall when there's less recreational boat traffic buzzing around.

Anglers will feel right at home here too. The waters are rich with diverse fish species including northern pike, chain pickerel, channel catfish, rock bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, and yellow perch.

Recreation and Amenities

Got kids? They'll love the modern playground with its soft mulch surfacing and safety fencing. The equipment is clean and well-maintained, making it particularly ideal for younger children who need a break from water activities.

When hunger strikes, head to the large sheltered area that's well-suited for picnics and small gatherings. It's a comfortable spot to relax while enjoying the cool breeze coming off the water.

Restrooms are available on-site, but they're basic - if you prefer more comfortable facilities, nearby restaurants might be a better option. Dog owners will appreciate that four-legged friends are welcome, with poop bags available across the park.

Scenic Views and Surroundings

Operated by the Town of Irondequoit, the park is used by both locals and visitors.

Take a leisurely stroll along the pier to the beacon for some truly spectacular views of Irondequoit Bay and Lake Ontario. If you're a photography enthusiast or just appreciate natural beauty, the sunrise and sunset views here are absolutely worth timing your visit around.

When you're ready to wrap up your day outdoors, popular local eateries like Bill Gray's and Don's Original are just a stone's throw away. Nothing caps off a day of boating or fishing quite like a burger or ice cream cone from these neighborhood favorites.