With its protected bays, easy trail system, and primitive lakefront camping, Knight Island offers a truly unique experience for campers, hikers, and boaters. Located in North Hero, VT, this 175-acre natural treasure includes miles of scenic and undeveloped shoreland. Conserved by the Lake Champlain Land Trust and The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Knight Island was one of the last undeveloped islands on the Lake to be protected before it was developed. The thoughtful design of the lakeshore campsites protects large expanses of forests including critical natural communities and rare species.
DAY USE: Knight Island is open for hiking year-round and makes a great stopover for paddlers looking for a moderate to intense paddle trip (depending on the wind). Paddlers can launch at nearby Knight Point State Park (3.5-mile crossing each way; day use fee) or Hero’s Welcome in North Hero (2-mile crossing; launching fee). A shale beach at the island’s north end provides easy landing and access to the scenic interior 1.5-mile loop trail. During the summer, paddlers can also land at the dock on the west shore.
OVERNIGHT: Camping is by reservation only between Memorial Day and Labor Day (fee applies). It is best to go online in January to reserve summer camping spots. Please note: There is no electricity; the southern tip of Knight Island is private.
Directions
Guides
Click here for a printable guide for Knight Island, including access directions.
History
Lake Champlain Land Trust and TNC worked together to purchase 175 acres of the 185-acre island in 1990. The Lake Champlain Land Trust, the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board, and TNC retained a conservation agreement (also known as a conservation easement) before donating the land to the State of Vermont.
The State of Vermont owns and manages the state park thanks to a seasonal ranger in residence. For campsite reservations, please click here.
Partners
Knight Island State Park was conserved with the help of The Nature Conservancy, the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board and the Lake Champlain Land Trust.
