State Senator Patty Ritchie asked her constituents to vote on her web page for their favorite state park, and the winner is Coles Creek State Park, on the St. Lawrence River.

The park, in St. Lawrence County at the border of Waddington and Louisville townships, led the balloting in her online survey during July’s record-breaking heat wave when Central and Northern New Yorkers were searching for the best spots to cool down.

Coles Creek features waterside campsites on the shore of the St. Lawrence River. It was chosen from among two dozen state parks in Ritchie's 48th District, including Oswego, Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties.

It was followed closely by Jacques Cartier Park, also in St. Lawrence County; Southwick Beach in Jefferson County; and Sandy Island and Selkirk Shores Parks in Oswego County.

“Central and Northern New Yorkers have a lot to love about our state parks, from cool beaches to shady picnic areas and quiet campgrounds,” Senator Ritchie said. “Even more, we love to share our favorite spots and invite others to enjoy them too.”

More than 200 people responded to the senator’s survey.

Among other findings in the poll: most participants said they visited state parks foremost to “enjoy time with family and friends.” Camping and boating were the next most popular activities.

Ritchie is now conducting a poll on her website regarding proposals to bring casino gambling to the region. So far, that poll has drawn over 1000 responses, and will be available until next week.