By Christine A. Smyczynski
This article, the 7th in a series of 17 that focus on the 518 mile long Seaway Trail, focuses on the far western region of Lake Ontario. This section of Lake Ontario, located between the Niagara River and Oak Orchard Creek, is a popular place for bird watching, especially in the winter, since this section of the lake doesn’t freeze over in the cooler months.
Four state parks can be found in this region, Four Mile Creek State Park and Campground, Wilson-Tuscarora State Park, Golden Hill State Park, and Lakeside Beach State Park.
Four Mile Creek State Park and Campground in Youngstown, is popular for fishing, picnicking, and camping (266 campsites are available mid-April to mid-October.) There are hiking trails through wooded bluffs along the lake. The marsh, located at the mouth of Four Mile Creek, is home to Great Blue Heron.
Wilson-Tuscarora State Park in Wilson, features 395 acres of woods, meadows, and marshland, along with 4 miles of hiking trails. Owls are one of the birds that can be found in this park.
Golden Hill State Park in Barker, features the circa 1875 Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse, open weekends for tours Memorial Day to Labor Day. There is even a rental suite in the lighthouse that is available year-round. Further east along the lake, Lakeside Beach State Park in Carlton in Orleans County, is a 743 acre park that offers a panoramic view of Lake Ontario. The park has 274 campsites which are open April-October.
Some of the birds found in the western Lake Ontario region include Common Goldeneye, White-winged Scoter, and occasionally a King Elder or Harlequin Duck.