Grand Isle State Park, Grand Isle VT
Contact Details
- Address: 36 East Shore South Grand Isle, VT 05458
- Phone: +1 802–372–4300
- Website: https://vtstateparks.com/grandisle.html
Overview
My trip to Grand Isle State Park was never meant to be about paddleboarding — so much so that I didn’t even bring my board. This was a scouting mission, a chance to see if the park might be worth a return visit with my board. October’s chill had settled in, and with the combined air and water temperatures far too low for safe paddling with the dogs, it simply wasn’t worth the risk. The rule for dogs and water is simple: if the sum of air and water temperature is below 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you stay off the water. Hypothermia can set in fast. Sure, I could have paddled cautiously and hoped not to fall in, but hope isn’t much of a safety plan.
Even without paddling, the park had its merits — though not without drawbacks. Most campsites lacked direct water access, meaning that if I had brought my board, I would have had to load it into the truck and drive to a designated put-in. And for October, the car traffic in the surrounding area was surprisingly heavy. The narrow, single-lane roads were packed, making me wonder what chaos must unfold here in the height of summer — an endless maze of cars, campers, and the hum of generators.
Instead of paddling, I explored other nearby state parks, wandering along deserted beaches and quiet trails. Calling it “hiking” might be a stretch — I didn’t even need boots — but the solitude was welcome. With the season winding down, most facilities were closed, leaving behind a landscape beautifully untouched by crowds. No lines, no chatter — just crisp autumn air and uninterrupted views. The only sign of life was the steady stream of cars on the road, heading who-knows-where.
With so few campers around, I let the dogs explore the empty playgrounds, something I’ve done at other parks like Fish Creek Pond. There’s something endlessly amusing about watching them clamber up play structures, slide down ramps, and even sit on the swings for a moment. A small joy, but a memorable one.
One of the most breathtaking sights came during a short nature walk at Knight Point State Park, where I stumbled upon a massive grove of towering oaks and maples. They were ancient, monolithic, and elemental. And, like so much of this trip, I had this revered space almost entirely to myself.
At night, another kind of elemental beauty took over — sitting by my campsite under a vast sky of stars. The air was sharp with cold, but the fire crackled steadily, and the dogs lay curled beneath a shared blanket. It was the kind of quiet, simple perfection that makes camping special.
Unlike most of my adventures, which are dripping with action, this trip felt different — more reflective, almost meditative. I had never been to this part of Vermont before, and I was struck by its coastal charm. Something about the small shops, the clustered buildings, the waterside atmosphere — it all reminded me of Cape Cod.
Would I return? Maybe in summer, just to give it a proper try — but in truth, the lack of water access is a dealbreaker for me. Long stays wouldn’t be ideal. The campground has no electricity, only generators, which wasn’t a problem since my site was secluded enough that I could run mine without bothering anyone. But in the summer, packed with other campers all running their generators, it would be an entirely different experience.
These days, having scouted a number of campgrounds for paddleboarding, I’ve come to prefer settling into a place, fully immersing myself rather than constantly arriving and packing up. Instead of spreading nine days across three parks, I’d rather spend seven days truly experiencing one.
That’s my plan moving forward — returning to my favorite state parks like Umbagog Lake, Fish Creek Pond, Lake Francis, and Cedar Point. Places where I can settle in, take my time, and truly make the most of being on the paddleboard with Groot and Rocket.
Rating
6 out of 10
History
In the 19th century, Grand Isle was known for its thriving dairy farms and apple orchards, which flourished thanks to the island’s fertile soil and temperate, lake-moderated climate.
With the advent of improved transportation in the early 20th century — first through ferries and later bridges connecting the island to the mainland — tourism began to grow. Wealthy city dwellers from Burlington, New York, and beyond were drawn to Grand Isle’s scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, building summer homes along the lake. However, as private development increased, public access to Lake Champlain began to disappear.
Recognizing the need to preserve lake access, Vermont took action to establish Grand Isle State Park. In 1959, the state purchased 54 acres from Birchcliff, a private summer resort, acquiring a hotel-like building, cabins, and a recreation hall. This acquisition laid the foundation for what would become one of Vermont’s most popular campgrounds.
During the 1960s, efforts focused on enhancing the park’s amenities and expanding camping opportunities. Over the years, Grand Isle State Park continued to grow, eventually reaching 226 acres. Today, it stands as the most-visited campground in Vermont’s state park system, offering a blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and preserved public access to Lake Champlain.
Stand Up Paddleboarding at Grand Isle State Park
What’s Good:
Spectacular Scenery:
- Lake Champlain is renowned for its stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains to the west and the Green Mountains to the east.
Diverse Paddling Options:
- The park’s shoreline offers calm, sheltered areas for beginners, as well as open water for more experienced paddlers seeking a challenge.
Wildlife and Nature:
- The lake and surrounding areas are home to herons, ospreys, turtles, and fish. You might even spot migratory birds depending on the season.
Family-Friendly:
- The park’s amenities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and camping facilities, make it a great destination for families.
- The gentle waters near the shore are ideal for introducing kids to paddleboarding.
Accessible Amenities:
- Easy access to the water with designated launch areas.
- Ample parking and facilities for day use or overnight camping.
What’s Bad:
Wind and Waves:
- Lake Champlain can get windy, especially in the afternoons, which may create choppy waters that are challenging for beginners.
- Open water paddling can be difficult on breezy days.
Busy During Peak Season:
- Summer weekends and holidays can attract large crowds, reducing the sense of solitude and making parking and shoreline access more competitive.
Cold Water Temperatures:
- The lake can remain cold well into early summer, so proper gear is recommended, especially if you’re likely to fall in.
No On-Site Rentals:
- You’ll need to rent gear from nearby towns or bring your own.
No Direct Access from your Campsite:
- Be prepared to drive from your campsite to the put in point.
Things to Consider:
Skill Level:
- Beginners should stay close to shore in sheltered areas, while experienced paddlers can explore open water and nearby islands.
- Be mindful of currents and wind when venturing further.
Safety Gear:
- Wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and consider using a leash for your paddleboard.
- Carry a whistle or signaling device, as required by Vermont law.
Timing:
- Early mornings and evenings typically offer calmer waters and fewer crowds.
- Avoid paddling during strong winds or thunderstorms, which can form quickly over the lake.
Wildlife Etiquette:
- Keep a respectful distance from wildlife, especially nesting birds.
Camping and Reservations:
- If you plan to camp, book your site in advance as the park is popular during the summer.
Seasonal Considerations:
- Summer offers the warmest water and most vibrant activity.
- Fall brings fewer crowds and stunning foliage, though the water can be quite cold.
Camping
Grand Isle State Park, the second-largest campground in Vermont, is a camping-only park with no electrical hookups at any of its campsites. It offers a variety of sites to suit different camping preferences, including some with lake views and others tucked away in wooded areas for added privacy. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire pit.
The park provides several amenities, including flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water stations, and RV dump stations. Trash disposal and recycling facilities are also available. For group camping, there’s a large open field, and visitors can enjoy lake access at the campers’ beach.
Outdoor activities include swimming at the designated beach, boating from the launch area (for kayaks, canoes, and motorboats), and exploring the park’s hiking trails and picnic areas. A playground and nature center offer additional recreational options. Pets are welcome in designated areas, provided they are kept on a leash. Firewood is available for purchase.
Campground Details:
Season: mid-May through Columbus Day
Total number of campsites: 115
Total number of lean-tos: 36
Total number of cabins: 4
Reservation booking window: 11 months
How difficult is it to get a camping reservation (1=easy, 10=impossible): 7
Fees:
Campsite fees
· No hookups: $35 per night
· Lean-tos: $30 per night
· Cabins: $60 per night
· Prime site surcharge: $2 per night
· Out-of-state surcharge: $8 per night
Things to Check Out Nearby Grand Isle State Park
Lake Champlain:
- Grand Isle State Park offers direct access to Lake Champlain, which is perfect for a variety of water activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing.
Sand Bar State Park:
- Located about 15 minutes from Grand Isle State Park, Sand Bar State Park offers a beautiful sandy beach on Lake Champlain for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing by the water.
Alburgh Dunes State Park:
- A short drive from Grand Isle, this state park features a sandy beach, hiking trails, and beautiful views of Lake Champlain.
Burlington, VT:
- About 40 minutes from Grand Isle, Burlington is a vibrant city offering a mix of outdoor activities, dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. Enjoy the beautiful waterfront along the lake, visit the Church Street Marketplace, or explore the local breweries.
Shelburne Farms:
- Located 40 minutes from Grand Isle, Shelburne Farms is a historic 1,400-acre working farm with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and views of Lake Champlain.
North Hero State Park:
- A nearby park located on North Hero Island, this park offers hiking, picnicking, and beautiful views of Lake Champlain. It’s a quieter spot for those looking to enjoy the natural surroundings and the peaceful atmosphere of the island.
The Islands of Lake Champlain:
- Explore the scenic islands of Lake Champlain by ferry or boat. Take a guided tour or rent a boat to enjoy the lake’s serene beauty and wildlife, including birdwatching opportunities and picturesque views of the Adirondack Mountains.
Ethan Allen Homestead:
- About 40 minutes from Grand Isle, this historical site is the former home of Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen. Visitors can tour the house, explore the grounds, and learn about the history of the area and its role in early American history.
Winooski Falls:
- Located about 30 minutes from Grand Isle, Winooski Falls offers a beautiful waterfall and nearby park.
Mount Philo State Park:
- About 40 minutes south of Grand Isle, Mount Philo offers hiking trails that lead to a summit with panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks, and the Green Mountains.
You just read a chapter from the book:
“Paddle, Camp, Repeat: 10 Campgrounds for Paddleboarding in the Northeast”
Read other chapters from the book:
Cedar Point State Park, Clayton NY
Cumberland Bay State Park, Plattsburgh NY
Fish Creek Pond, Saranac Lake NY
Lake Francis State Park, Pittsburg NH
Macomb Reservation State Park, Schuyler Falls NY
Moreau Lake State Park, Gansevoort NY
Parc national de la Yamaska, Saint-Paul-de-Vence QC
Parc national du Mont-Orford, Orford QC
Umbagog Lake State Park, Errol NH
