Paddling
Northern Vermont offers gorgeous lakes for paddling, canoes, and kayaks
Our picks
St. Albans, VT
Kill Kare State Park
2714 Hathaway Point Road 802-534-6021Swimming and boating; kayaks for rent; public boat ramp; pets not allowed
The south-facing swimming area at this park, located on a long peninsula, has a public boat launch ramp that reaches deep water quickly. There are kayaks for rent. - Park Map (PDF)
Grand Isle, VT
Grand Isle State Park
36 East Shore South 802-372-4300Many campsites; large sandy beach, swimming, shore fishing, sports fields
This is a very large and popular destination for family camping, with lots of campsites, some on the shore of Lake Champlain. Lakeshore areas permit water access for swimming and shore fishing. There is a boat launching ramp for registered campers. Kayaks and rowboats are available for rent. Campers are allowed free entry to the sand beach at Knight Point State Park (seven miles to the north) and Alburg Dunes State Park (19 miles to the north).
North Hero, VT
North Hero State Park
3803 Lakeview Drive 802-372-8727Paddling is the main activity at this park
North Hero is a stop on the Lake Champlain Paddlers’ Trail. North Hero is a day use park; no camping or other facilities. Pets are allowed. - Park Map & Guide (PDF)
Lake Elmore, VT
Elmore State Park
856 VT Route 12 802-888-2982Good family camping; hikes and walks; lake swimming; pets but not on beach
Boat rentals are available at the large sandy beach of this park, very popular family camping and hiking. Beach area has concessions, cafe, restrooms. The park has an on-air picnic pavilion for rent by the day. Holds 100 guests.