Complete information about visiting Saint Croix Island International Historic Site is now available on National Park Planner!
Saint Croix Island International Historic Site preserves the island on which the French established a short-lived settlement in August 1604, but one that marked the beginning of their permanent, uninterrupted presence in North America. There had been unsuccessful French settlements in North America since the mid-1500s, and French traders and explorers had come to the northeast area of the continent many times before during the spring and summer season, but this was the first time an attempt was made to stay year-round.
There is nothing left of the French settlement on Saint Croix Island, and the National Park Service highly discourages people from visiting it (the island is within the border of the United States). Because of this, no tours are given, and you must have your own boat if you want to explore the island. There is, however, a mainland unit of the park that consists of a small visitor center, a few picnic tables, and a .1-mile gravel path that leads down to the Saint Croix River where you can get a look at the island. There are some exhibits and statues along the way. If you insist on traveling to the island by motorboat, canoe, or kayak, a boat ramp on the property is available for you to use (4-wheel drive vehicles are required to access it).
DIRECTIONS AND CONTACT INFORMATION
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Last updated on November 22, 2025
