On October 13, 1776 Revolutionary War Commander Benedict Arnold defied surrender to the British army by burning the remaining American Squadron on the shoreline facing Rock Island.  In 1997 the Lake Champlain Land Trust protected the site from development.  In addition to its spectacular views and natural beauty, Rock Island near Panton also serves as a stop-over and staging area for migratory birds. The waters surrounding the island provide excellent fishing, kayaking, and canoeing opportunities.

Rock Island is one of 40 properties saved by the Lake Champlain Land Trust.  Over the past 25 years the Land Trust has preserved thousands of acres and miles of shoreline on Lake Champlain. For information on becoming a member visit our website www.LCLT.org!

Although Rock Island is not yet on the Lake Champlain Paddlers' Trail, visitors are encouraged to paddle out to the half acre island with rocky cliffs.  Visitors should stay off the cliffs and powerboats should note the many large boulders submerged off the island.