Lake Champlain's islands form a distinctive camping landscape for visitors seeking tent camping near Chazy, New York. The region features several boat-accessible islands with primitive camping sites at elevations between 95-120 feet above sea level. Water temperatures in summer range from 65-75°F, with camping seasons typically running from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, though some sites remain accessible for winter camping with proper permits.
What to do
Paddle to remote islands: Most island camping requires boat access, with Knight Island State Park offering completely waterfront campsites. According to one camper, "Not for the faint of heart, Knight Island is only accessible by private boat, though there are a few unregulated boat taxis that will agree to take the boat-less out there."
Bass fishing: Fishing is productive throughout Lake Champlain near the islands. A winter camper at Knight Island State Park noted, "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."
Hiking trail networks: Island trail systems provide excellent opportunities for exploration. At Woods Island State Park, "The island's five campsites are situated around the two-mile shoreline, and are connected by a trail system. This gives you great privacy, but it also means you're going to have to walk and carry your own gear from wherever you come ashore."
What campers like
Isolation from vehicles: Car-free camping creates a unique atmosphere at several island locations. At Burton Island State Park, "It's like going to a tropical island without leaving Vermont. There are no cars on the island. You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans."
Winter camping options: For experienced outdoor enthusiasts, some islands offer permitted winter access. A reviewer mentions, "Knight Island is a summer camping oasis but you can obtain a permit from the Vt. State Parks to winter camp."
Platform sites at reservoirs: Inland options exist for those seeking freshwater alternatives. At Indian Brook Reservoir, "Nestled in the woods are several tent platforms that you can access by foot or by boat. They are spacious but not too private. There is a shared privy among the sites."
What you should know
Mosquito preparedness: Insects can be problematic, particularly in island interiors. One Knight Island camper advised, "Beware: mosquitoes and black flies in the middle of the island can be nasty, sometimes better to take the perimeter route."
Pack-in water requirements: Most primitive sites require campers to bring their own water supplies. For Woods Island State Park, "Woods Island is a 'remote area' campground. Remote area campsites, while beautiful, are not for everybody. Sanitary facilities are minimal, and there is no potable water supply."
Limited transportation options: Getting to camping destinations often requires planning. For Burton Island, one camper explained, "You can paddle out to Burton Island on your own from Kamp Killcare State Park, where you'll leave your car. It's a very short paddle and shouldn't take more than 10 minutes. The passenger ferry runs throughout the day, if you don't have a boat of your own."
Tips for camping with families
Cart accessibility: Some locations offer equipment for transporting gear. At Burton Island, "Once you're on the island, you can borrow a cart to bring your gear to your site, or you can pay one of the park rangers to haul it in one of their golf carts."
Kid-friendly environments: Car-free islands create safe spaces for children. A Burton Island visitor noted, "It's super family friendly - maybe it's because there aren't cars all over the place, but the island is full of free range kids, and they're having a blast."
Basic shower facilities: Limited shower options exist at some locations. According to one Burton Island camper, "The one downfall is the shower. The water pressure is barely enough to rinse the soap off," which is worth considering for families planning extended stays.
Tips from RVers
Non-motorized alternatives: Most island camping in the Chazy region focuses on tent camping with minimal RV options. At Underhill State Park, "This is the best of car camping - you get the feel of really being out in the woods, with your car a short distance away. They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff."
Proximity access: Some mainland options provide a compromise between RV comfort and tent privacy. One camper at Underhill State Park explained, "The campground is in a perfect spot. About a .3 mile hike to the main trail to climb the mountain. The camp sites are nice but a little close together."
Private driving access: For those with suitable vehicles, some mainland sites allow limited driving access. At Adirondack Acres Trail and Camps, "If you have a good 4x4 and some driving skills, you can reach the river with your car. You will drive in what looks like an enchanted forest."
