Island camping near Swanton, Vermont offers primitive sites across Lake Champlain's "inland sea" region. This area features a northern continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, with lake temperatures remaining cool through early summer. The surrounding Champlain Valley sits at approximately 100-200 feet above sea level with islands generally requiring boat transportation for access.
What to do
Hiking island trails: Woods Island State Park Campground features a trail system connecting its five campsites around a two-mile shoreline. According to a camper, "Woods Island provides a unique habitat for a rich variety of plant life, including many species that are rare or threatened in Vermont."
Fishing opportunities: Valcour Island offers excellent fishing experiences in Lake Champlain. One visitor notes, "Excellent bass fishing and miles of hiking." Knight Island also provides good fishing spots, as one camper mentions, "There are some nice leantos on the east side of the island that give you access to the lake and some good fishing."
Swimming access: For the best swimming experiences, Knight Island State Park Campground provides excellent water access. A camper explains, "Every remote campsite is waterside, with fabulous access to amazing swimming, gorgeous sunsets, and fantastic hikes across the island."
What campers like
Island privacy: At Woods Island State Park Campground, campers appreciate the remote setting. A reviewer notes, "Remote area campsites, while beautiful, are not for everybody. Sanitary facilities are minimal, and there is no potable water supply. Each campsite does have a fire ring and a nearby composting toilet."
On-site amenities: At Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape and Tent Haven, campers appreciate the provided essentials. One visitor shares, "Clean water, fire wood and cooking rack are provided for your first night. There's extra fire wood for sale along with a sink to do dishes. A very clean outhouse and shower right on site."
Winter camping options: For those seeking off-season adventures, Knight Island offers winter camping possibilities. A visitor explains, "Knight Island is a summer camping oasis but you can obtain a permit from the Vt. State Parks to winter camp."
What you should know
Transportation logistics: For Burton Island State Park Campground, transportation planning is essential. A camper advises, "Depending on the weather, the 3/4 mile crossing from Kamp KilKare State Park can be rough and windy. If you are an experienced paddler, have a good copilot, and not too much gear, you would be fine."
Boat access requirements: Most island sites have specific landing conditions. For Woods Island, "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."
Reservation timelines: Popular sites book quickly. At Burton Island, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Island exploration: Underhill State Park Campground provides family-friendly camping with easy access to outdoor activities. A camper shares, "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."
Kid-friendly environment: Burton Island creates a safe space for children. A visitor notes, "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."
Food options: Some locations offer food services that families appreciate. At Burton Island, "There's a camping bistro where you can buy pancakes, coffee, local beer, and fine wines."
Tips for RVers
Alternative to RV camping: For RVers seeking the best tent camping near Swanton, Vermont as a change of pace, Indian Brook Reservoir provides tent platforms accessible by boat or foot. A camper notes, "There is an extensive trail system that is easy to navigate. Nestled in the woods are several tent platforms that you can access by foot or by boat. They are spacious but not too private."
Gear transport considerations: Without direct vehicle access at many sites, RVers should plan carefully. At Indian Brook Reservoir, "It was a 15 minute hike to the site, so pack light. If you have a kayak, you can transport your stuff over."
Winter storage options: RV owners staying seasonally should note Knight Island's winter camping permit system. A visitor explains, "Deer, turkey, fox and smaller animals can be seen throughout the island" during winter camping trips.
