Burton Island State Park
Vermont’s Car-Free Island Escape on Lake Champlain
Burton Island State Park is a 253-acre island accessible only by a state-operated passenger ferry — a 10-minute ride from Kill Kare State Park on the mainland. No cars cross the water. No engine noise. Just lapping waves, birdsong, and the kind of deep quiet that only an island can deliver. Set in Lake Champlain off St. Albans Point, it’s one of the most unique camping experiences in the Northeast.
The island offers 44 campsites (tent sites, lean-tos, and cabins), a 100-slip marina, a nature center, rental watercraft, and even an on-island bistro. Despite feeling wonderfully remote, Burton Island is thoroughly equipped — you can paddle out to explore neighboring islands, hike the 2.5-mile shoreline loop, or simply claim a lean-to and watch the sun set over the Adirondacks across the lake.
⛴️ Getting to Burton Island
Ferry Details
- Departs from: Kill Kare State Park, St. Albans Point
- Ride time: ~10 minutes
- Season: Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend
- Vehicle parking: Leave your car at Kill Kare’s parking lots
- Bicycles: Allowed on the ferry for an additional fee
- Private boats: Enter through the marina — 100 slips with Wi-Fi, electricity, and pump-out
⛺ Camping
| Type | Count | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Sites | 14 | Standard island camping; some with lake views |
| Lean-tos | 26 | Three-sided shelters; fire ring and picnic table |
| Rental Cabins | 3 | Enclosed cabins with bunks; bring your own bedding |
| Remote Tent Sites | 4 | Part of Lake Champlain Paddlers Trail; most secluded |
Amenities include restrooms with flush toilets, hot and cold running water, and coin-operated showers. Reservations made 7+ days in advance require a 2-night minimum stay.
🥾 Hiking & Nature
The island’s trails are mostly flat and easy, perfect for a casual afternoon explore. The Island Loop Trail (2.5 miles) circles the entire island with constant lake views. A self-guided nature trail passes through the island’s varied habitats — rocky shoreline, marsh, forest, and open meadow. The nature center and museum offers programs about island ecology and Lake Champlain’s natural history.
🎯 Things to Do
- 🚣 Paddling: Canoe, kayak, and SUP rentals available on-island
- 🏊 Swimming: Sandy beach area in protected cove
- 🎣 Fishing: Bass, pike, and perch from shore or boat
- 🚲 Biking: Southern Tip Trail open to bicycles
- 🍳 Dining: Burton Island Bistro serves breakfast and lunch
- 🛒 Supplies: Camp store for essentials
📋 Visitor Information
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Lake Champlain, off St. Albans Point, VT |
| Access | Ferry from Kill Kare State Park only; no car access |
| Season | Memorial Day – Labor Day |
| Marina | 100 slips with Wi-Fi, electricity, holding-tank pump-out; 15 moorings |
| Pets | Allowed on leash; not permitted at swimming beach or marina |
| Phone | (802) 524-6353 |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Vermont state parks?
Day-use fees are typically $4-$5 per adult and $2 for children. Camping fees vary by park and campsite type. Vermont state parks are generally smaller and more intimate than neighboring states.
When is the best time for fall foliage in Vermont?
Vermont foliage typically peaks from late September in the northern Green Mountains to mid-October in southern Vermont. The Green Mountain Byway and Route 100 are legendary foliage drives.
Can I swim in quarries at Vermont state parks?
Yes, several Vermont parks offer unique swimming in historic granite quarries, including Groton State Forest areas. These former quarry pools offer deep, clear water in dramatic stone settings.
What are the best state parks in Vermont?
Top parks include Smuggler’s Notch (dramatic mountain pass), Burton Island (island camping by ferry), Branbury (Lake Dunmore beach), and Quechee State Park (Quechee Gorge overlook).
Explore More Vermont State Parks
Burton Island State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Vermont. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Vermont guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
