The Champlain Islands are home to some of the greatest and most unique state parks in Vermont. From day use parks to island camping, these hidden gems are sure to be enjoyed by all ages. The guide below will help you learn about the best parks to visit in the Northwest Lake Champlain region.
1. Sand Bar State Park
Sandy beaches, bird watching, and panoramic lake views the Sand Bar State Park is located right on the shores of Lake Champlain’s Inland Sea. This park is open daily and is open from 10am to sunset. This park has 2000 feet of sand beach making it a great spot to swim. Plus, they have kayaks available to rent!
2. Grand Isle State Park
Grand Isle State Park is Vermont's most visited state park equipped with great camping and even some nature trails! With 4,150 feet of shoreline set up for fishing and swimming, the vast number of available camping sites in the park make it Vermont’s second largest campground.
3. Knight Point State Park
Knight Point State Park is located right by The North Hero Drawbridge on Lake Champlain’s “Gut”. This 54 acre park is strictly day use so snag a picnic table and enjoy lunch by the water or rent out the pavilion if you have a group function!
4. Alburgh Dunes State Park
Grab a cooler, your trunks, a smile and head on up to the 625 acre paradise known as Alburgh Dunes State Park. This park is a local favorite with one of the longest sandy beaches on Lake Champlain, making the dunes the perfect place to enjoy a day of beach games and swimming.
5. Burton Island State Park
Hop on the boat and trek out to the beautiful 253 acre Burton Island State Park. Located on Lake Champlain’s Inland Sea, this park makes for a very unique boat camping experience. You can also travel to Burton Island by ferry located in St. Albans, Vermont.
6. Knight Island State Park
Knight Island State Park is located just around 2 miles from the North Hero Village on Lake Champlain’s Inland Sea and is only accessible by boat. This island getaway will not disappoint. Reserve a lean-to ahead of time, pack up, and treat yourself to a peaceful night out in nature. During the colder months you can walk out on the frozen lake to Knight Island. It is just a 40 minute walk from the North Hero Village!
7. Woods Island State Park
Woods Island State Park is another great island state park on Lake Champlain’s Inland Sea. When visiting Woods Island prepare for a slightly more rugged camping experience than one might have on Knight Island or Burton Island. This park is known as a “remote area” campground with limited sites. However, it still has much to offer in terms of camping and exploring as long as you are prepared!
Incomparable state parks, close-knit community, and countless outdoor activities make the Lake Champlain Islands region a wonderful place to enjoy year-round or seasonally. Looking for more things to do when visiting? Read about these 10 can’t miss places to see in the Champlain Islands.
