The camping areas surrounding Schuyler Falls, New York offer tent sites in a diverse range of settings, from island locations to mountaintop vistas. Most tent camping options sit at elevations between 100 and 1,200 feet above sea level, with Lake Champlain positioned at approximately 95 feet of elevation. Seasonal temperature swings can be dramatic, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and dropping to 50-60°F at night.
What to do
Fishing for bass: Valcour Island provides excellent bass fishing opportunities according to camper LauraandJosh W., who notes there are "miles of hiking" available on the island as well.
Sunrise viewing: At Woods Island State Park Campground, the eastern shoreline offers optimal sunrise viewing spots. The island's five campsites "are situated around the two-mile shoreline, and are connected by a trail system," giving campers privacy and scenic morning views.
Paddleboarding rentals: Burton Island State Park Campground offers paddleboard rentals for visitors who want to explore the lake. One camper mentioned they "rented a paddleboard, played in the waves, and enjoyed the ice cream sandwiches from the camp store" during their stay.
Winter camping options: For those seeking off-season tent camping near Schuyler Falls, Knight Island State Park Campground permits winter camping with a special permit. As one camper explains, "you can obtain a permit from the Vt. State Parks to winter camp. There are some nice lean-tos on the east side of the island that give you access to the lake and some good fishing."
What campers like
Private waterfront access: Adirondack Acres Trail and Camps offers exceptional privacy near the river. One camper described it as "very private. There is absolutely no one around as far as the eye can see in the area close to the river," making it ideal for those seeking seclusion in their tent camping experience.
Car-free camping experience: Burton Island State Park Campground provides a unique tent camping environment without vehicles. A camper explained, "There are no cars on the island. You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans," creating what they called "a tropical island without leaving Vermont."
Spacious tent sites: Some of the best tent camping near Schuyler Falls includes generously-sized sites. At Adirondack Acres, one camper mentioned that 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."
Sunrise to sunset views: Mount Philo State Park Campground offers both sunrise and sunset viewing opportunities from different vantage points. A camper recommended, "getting up early and hiking the short trail to the top for a spectacular sunrise," noting that the sites themselves are "very private and shaded."
What you should know
Boat access requirements: Many of the best tent camping options near Schuyler Falls require boat transportation. At Knight Island State Park Campground, one camper warns it's "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."
Campsite reservation timing: Tent sites book quickly at popular locations. For Burton Island, one camper advised, "Waterfront sites book very quickly (like 11 months in advance)," suggesting early planning for prime locations.
Insect activity: At certain island locations, bugs can be problematic in wooded areas. A Knight Island camper warned about mosquitoes and black flies, recommending visitors "take the perimeter route" when hiking rather than cutting through the middle of the island.
Limited facilities: Many remote tent sites have minimal amenities. Woods Island State Park Campground is described as a "remote area campground. Remote area campsites, while beautiful, are not for everybody. Sanitary facilities are minimal, and there is no potable water supply."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly environments: Indian Brook Reservoir offers an extensive trail system that works well for family exploration. A camper noted the reservoir "lends itself to peaceful boating, nature watching and great fishing," providing varied activities for children of different ages.
Gear transportation strategies: When tent camping with families, consider how to transport your equipment. At Indian Brook Reservoir, one camper advised, "If you have a kayak, you can transport your stuff over. Site was gorgeous and private, right on the reservoir."
Free-range children opportunities: Burton Island State Park Campground is described as "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."
Parent-friendly amenities: Some locations offer conveniences that make family camping easier. Burton Island has "a camping bistro where you can buy pancakes, coffee, local beer, and fine wines," plus "a marina (with WiFi)" for staying connected when necessary.
Tips for RVers
Limited RV access: Most of the best tent camping near Schuyler Falls doesn't accommodate RVs due to terrain and access limitations. Mount Philo State Park Campground specifically notes that "because the road is steep and winding, it's not suitable for RVs."
Alternative parking arrangements: RV owners may need to park vehicles at mainland locations when accessing island camping. Burton Island campers often "leave your car 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."
Equipment delivery services: Some parks offer transportation services for camping gear. As one Burton Island camper shared, "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."
Lean-to options: For RV owners who want a more substantial shelter than a tent, Mount Philo State Park Campground offers lean-tos as an alternative. With only "7 tent sites and 3 lean-tos," these options are limited but provide a more solid structure for overnight stays.
