Lake Champlain's eastern shore provides the backdrop for tent camping near Mooers Forks, New York, where elevation ranges from 100-150 feet above sea level. The region experiences seasonal temperature variations with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most campsites in this area require watercraft access, creating isolated camping experiences far from road noise and urban light pollution.
What to do
Paddle to private campsites: Access Woods Island State Park's five secluded shoreline campsites via personal watercraft, with no ferry service available. "There are no docks; visitors must either beach their boat or anchor off. The beach tends to be fairly rocky, except for a point along the east shore, from which the walk to campsites is between one-quarter and three-quarters of a mile," notes camper M.A.D. P.
Fishing opportunities: Fish for bass and other species throughout the islands in Lake Champlain. At Valcour Island, one reviewer mentioned "excellent bass fishing and miles of hiking." Winter visitors can obtain permits for ice fishing access. "There are some nice leantos on the east side of the island that give you access to the lake and some good fishing," states a camper about winter options.
Wildlife viewing: Look for native wildlife throughout your stay, particularly during quieter weekdays. "Deer, turkey, fox and smaller animals can be seen throughout the island," reports a camper about Knight Island State Park. Many islands feature well-maintained trail systems connecting campsites and offering wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Island isolation: Campers consistently praise the solitude found on Lake Champlain's islands. About Knight Island, one reviewer stated: "Not for the faint of heart, Knight Island is only accessible by private boat... every remote campsite is waterside, with fabulous access to amazing swimming, gorgeous sunsets, and fantastic hikes across the island."
Swimming access: Waterfront sites provide direct lake access for swimming. The south tip of Woods Island "gets more wind, and therefore waves, which my children greatly enjoyed for swimming," while the "northern part has shale beaches, and a few areas of mucky/pebbly beaches."
Dining options: Burton Island State Park Campground offers unexpected food amenities. "The island convenience store has awesome breakfast!" reports one camper. Another mentions "a camping bistro where you can buy pancakes, coffee, local beer, and fine wines." This distinguishes Burton Island from other more primitive island camping experiences.
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Plan carefully for island access. For Burton Island State Park Campground, "you can paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans." The ferry costs "$8 per person, with no extra charge for gear. They do charge $2 for bikes."
Equipment transport: Moving gear from landing spots to campsites requires planning. At Underhill State Park, "They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff." At Burton Island, "you can pay one of the park rangers to haul it in one of their golf carts."
Limited facilities: Most island sites offer minimal amenities. 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." Many sites have composting toilets but require bringing your own drinking water.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly environments: Burton Island offers excellent family camping opportunities. "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," writes one reviewer about the car-free island atmosphere.
Wildlife experiences for children: Bring nets and containers for frog catching activities. One family camping at Underhill State Park Campground reported: "We watched a sunset on the South tip, caught frogs at our shoreline, rented a paddleboard, played in the waves, and enjoyed the icecream sandwiches from the camp store, skipped stones in the lake, and explored the island. Our kids can't wait to go back."
Water safety preparation: Pack water shoes for rocky shorelines. "Just wear water shoes since it is mainly a rocky coast," advises a Burton Island camper. Families should also note that swim areas vary widely, from sandy beaches to rockier shorelines requiring appropriate footwear.
Tips from RVers
Alternative to RVs: The best tent camping near Mooers Forks, New York offers no traditional RV hookups, making tent camping the primary accommodation. 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," notes a camper who found it "very private. There is absolutely no one around as far as the eye can see in the area close to the river."
