The Chazy area sits on Lake Champlain's western shore, approximately 15 minutes from the Canadian border at an elevation of 200 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs May through October with July average temperatures ranging from 60-85°F. Water access sites around Chazy provide opportunities for both tent and RV campers seeking pet-friendly accommodations.
What to do
Paddle Lake Champlain: Burton Island State Park offers excellent kayak and canoe access. "We rented a canoe from the campground and paddled over to Wood Island," shares Michael L., noting that water vessels are available for daily rental at the marina.
Bike the Island Line Trail: Grand Isle State Park connects to extensive biking routes. "You can bike directly from here all the way to Burlington, without ever getting back in your car! Take the bike ferry across a small section of Lake Champlain and keep on riding," explains Sarah C., highlighting the car-free connection to Vermont's largest city.
Fish local waters: Knight Island State Park provides remote fishing opportunities. "There are some nice leantos on the east side of the island that give you access to the lake and some good fishing. Deer, turkey, fox and smaller animals can be seen throughout the island," according to M.A.D. P., who visited during the winter season with proper permits.
Vineyard tours: Within 20 minutes of Chazy, multiple wineries welcome visitors. "We went to Vesco Ridge Vineyards and had a tasting. They had some cute items for sale there too. We sat outside on a deck looking at the vineyard," explains B M. from Campbells Bay Campground, adding that some vineyards host special events combining wine with activities like massage.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Grand Isle State Park Campground features lakeside accommodations. "We had a lean-to site that was just far enough from the bathroom that it felt far. I found the site to be well maintained and for the rangers to be kind and help," notes Ashley J., mentioning how the layout creates a sense of seclusion despite being a popular destination.
Clean facilities: Cumberland Bay State Park maintains high standards. "The grounds are very clean and the beach parking is separate from the camping which is great when you have a family with kids. Beautiful bbq area by the beach and the view from the beach is amazing," reports Meag F., highlighting the thoughtful separation between day-use and overnight areas.
Adult-only options: Champlain Resort Adult Campground offers a quieter alternative. "It is child free which means it is super quiet and so relaxed. We spent about 11 days in absolute paradise at this campground. All of the sites are charming in their own right and the access to the lake is wonderful," explains Anthony I., appreciating the peaceful atmosphere.
On-site activities: Many local campgrounds provide amenities beyond camping. "There is a par 3 golf course and boat docks on site," notes Jason E. about Apple Island Resort, while Tucker B. mentions that Grand Isle has "a boat launch and beach area for swimming or nice sunset views."
What you should know
Water access conditions: Most beaches in the region have rocky shorelines. "The beach is nice even though rocky, the lean to sites are a great way to help keep things dry," reports Season D. about Grand Isle. Similarly, Nancy W. notes about Champlain Resort: "There is beach access but keep in mind it is rocky so it can be slippery walking in the water."
Transportation logistics: Burton Island State Park Campground requires planning. "Getting to the island was the hardest part. Depending on the weather, the 3/4 mile crossing from Kamp KilKare State Park can be rough and windy," explains Rita M., adding that "the Island Runner Ferry is likely the best option for most people who want to enjoy the island without being stressed about swamping a boat!"
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate May through October. "We biked to this park from Burlington via the Island Line Trail. It was a super trip. The lakeside lean-to was awesome," John L. shares about visiting Grand Isle during the warmer months, while other campgrounds like Knight Island allow winter camping with special permits.
Booking timelines: Popular waterfront sites require advance planning. "Waterfront sites book very quickly (like 11 months in advance), but if you don't mind being farther from the main campground and running water, you can almost always rent one of the four primitive sites," advises Tara S. about Burton Island.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated youth activities: Several parks offer organized programs. "It was a quiet, family friendly campground with a cute little beach and nature center with youth programs," Jessica G. reports about Grand Isle State Park, adding that their large campsite comfortably accommodated "3 tents and 6 adults."
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Cumberland Bay State Park provides family amenities. "This is a great place for the family. The playground is great. New bath house. Some sites with electric. Even with a windy, cold, rainy day it is still beautiful," Sheri C. notes about the family-friendly infrastructure.
Consider ferry logistics with kids: When visiting island campgrounds, plan for the extra step. "After getting all of our stuff packed on the ferry and arriving on the island, we chose to have the campground deliver our stuff to our campsite for $10... it was well worth it," Michael L. shares about Burton Island, highlighting services that ease family transitions.
Tips from RVers
Utility positioning: Be aware of hookup layouts at different campgrounds. "One thing is that their hook ups are on the passenger side. You have to pull straight in with the truck and camper. This is because a lot of class A prefer this way," explains Ron H. about Apple Island Resort, which may require adjustments for some RV setups.
Sewer connections: Check the specific setup details. "The hook-ups at our site were well-placed but the sewer pipe was high off the ground which did not let it drain even with a 'slinky,'" reports Nancy W., noting a practical challenge even at higher-end sites.
Site selection for views: At many Lake Champlain campgrounds, premium sites command higher prices. "The sites with the best views are the Platinum Plus which are also the most expensive. Some Platinum Plus sites are in the first row with unobstructed views; whereas, our site was three rows back," explains Nancy W. about Apple Island Resort, suggesting careful study of site maps before booking.
