Kingsland Bay State Park
Lake Champlain Shoreline Retreat — Adirondack Views, Rare Cliff Plants & Historic Hawley House
Kingsland Bay State Park is a 264-acre day-use park on the western shore of Lake Champlain in Ferrisburgh, Vermont, about 25 miles south of Burlington. The park occupies two distinctive peninsulas — McDonough Point and Hulbert Point — that jut into the lake and are designated as a State Natural Area for their rare cliff-edge plant communities. Views from the shoreline sweep across Lake Champlain to the Adirondack Mountains of New York, creating one of the most scenic lakeside settings in the Champlain Valley.
Unlike many Vermont state parks, Kingsland Bay is primarily day-use — no general campground, though a single campsite exists for paddlers on the Champlain Paddler’s Trail. The park’s historic Hawley House (circa 1790) and a rustic theater building are available for event rentals, making this a popular venue for weddings and gatherings. The property’s history includes its years as Ecole Champlain, an exclusive girls’ camp that operated until the late 1960s.
Things to Do
Hiking & Nature
Shoreline trails traverse the park’s two peninsulas, offering continuous lake views and access to ecologically sensitive areas:
- McDonough Point Trail: Cliff-edge walking with panoramic lake and Adirondack views
- Hulbert Point Trail: Through the State Natural Area; rare plant communities; quieter
- Shoreline walking: Rocky beaches and protected coves
Paddling
The protected bay is excellent for kayaking and canoeing — rentals available at the park. Kingsland Bay sits on the Champlain Paddler’s Trail, a water trail connecting campsites along Lake Champlain’s shoreline.
Swimming & Fishing
Lake Champlain swimming from the park’s shoreline areas. Fishing for bass, northern pike, walleye, and other Lake Champlain species from shore or by boat.
Historic Sites
- Hawley House (c. 1790): One of the earliest settler structures in Ferrisburgh — available for event rentals
- Rustic Theater: Remnant of the Ecole Champlain era — available for gatherings
- Ecole Champlain history: The property served as an exclusive girls’ camp for decades
Picnicking & Events
Expansive grassy areas, a picnic pavilion, and the historic buildings make Kingsland Bay a popular venue for picnics, family reunions, and weddings with a lake backdrop.
Trails
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| McDonough Point Trail | ~1.5 mi | Easy–Moderate | Cliff-edge views; Adirondack panorama; rare plants |
| Hulbert Point Trail | ~1 mi | Easy | State Natural Area; quiet forest; shoreline access |
| Shoreline Loop | ~2.5 mi combined | Easy | Full park circuit; rocky beaches; coves; lake views |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | ⭐ Lake swimming; kayak/canoe rentals; picnicking; wedding season; long days | Popular weekends; day-use only (no camping except paddler site) |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | ⭐ Adirondack foliage reflected on Lake Champlain; cooler hiking; quiet trails | Some facilities closing; shorter days; bring layers |
| Spring (May–Jun) | Wildflowers on cliffs; spring birding; lake warming; park opening | Water still cold; some areas muddy |
| Winter | Park closed for the season | No winter access |
Visitor Tips
- Day-use only: Kingsland Bay is not a camping park. The only overnight option is a single campsite for kayakers/canoeists on the Champlain Paddler’s Trail — advance registration required.
- State Natural Area: McDonough Point and Hulbert Point host rare cliff plant communities. Stay on trails in these areas to protect the fragile ecosystems.
- Event venue: The Hawley House and theater are available for private event rentals — weddings with Adirondack sunset views are especially popular. Book well in advance.
- Kayak rentals: Canoes and kayaks are available for rent at the park — an excellent way to explore the bay and the protected shoreline from the water.
- Champlain Paddler’s Trail: If you’re paddling the LCPT (a multi-day water trail), Kingsland Bay is a designated campsite stop. Plan your itinerary using the Lake Champlain Committee resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you camp at Kingsland Bay State Park?
Kingsland Bay is primarily a day-use park. There is no general campground. However, one campsite is available for paddlers on the Champlain Paddler’s Trail — you must arrive by kayak or canoe and register in advance. For traditional camping near Lake Champlain, consider Button Bay State Park or North Hero State Park, both within a reasonable drive.
Can you rent kayaks at Kingsland Bay State Park?
Yes — Kingsland Bay State Park offers kayak and canoe rentals during the summer season. The protected bay provides calm paddling conditions, and the location on the Champlain Paddler’s Trail makes it an excellent starting point for exploring Lake Champlain’s shoreline. Rentals are typically available from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Last updated: April 2026
