Discover Secluded Island Camping: Cedar Cove on Knight Island, VT

Cedar Cove Introduce

For us Vermonters, the call of the wild often leads us to our state's incredible natural landscapes, and few places offer an experience as unique as the islands of Lake Champlain. Among these hidden gems is Knight Island, home to the serene Cedar Cove campsite. This isn't your typical drive-up campground with amenities around every corner; instead, Cedar Cove provides a truly authentic and secluded island camping adventure, accessible only by boat. As part of the Vermont State Parks system, Knight Island, and its individual campsites like Cedar Cove, offer a chance to disconnect from the mainland's hustle and immerse ourselves in the quiet beauty of Lake Champlain, surrounded by pristine nature and the sounds of the lake.

Knight Island State Park, where Cedar Cove is located, is a cherished 185-acre island renowned for its unspoiled environment and remote camping opportunities. It stands as a testament to conservation, having been preserved by the Lake Champlain Land Trust and The Nature Conservancy. While direct reviews for "Cedar Cove" specifically are not widely publicized as it's one of several individual campsites within the park, the overall sentiment for Knight Island State Park consistently highlights its unique, primitive nature and stunning surroundings. Visitors praise the privacy afforded by the dispersed campsites, many of which are rustic lean-tos nestled along the shoreline. The island is celebrated for its excellent opportunities for swimming in the clear lake waters, leisurely boating, superb fishing, and exploring the island's comprehensive trail system. It's a destination for those who appreciate self-reliance and want to truly unplug, focusing on the simple, yet profound, joys of nature. The quiet ambiance, the views across Lake Champlain, and the feeling of being truly "away from it all" are frequently cited as the main draws, making it a beloved spot for backcountry enthusiasts and families seeking a unique adventure in Vermont.

Cedar Cove is situated on Knight Island, within the boundaries of North Hero, VT 05474, USA. As an island campsite, its most distinguishing feature is its accessibility: it can only be reached by boat. This ensures a tranquil and secluded experience, as only those prepared for a water journey can reach its shores.

For Vermonters planning a visit, several options exist for reaching Knight Island:

Private Boat: If you own a boat, you can launch from nearby mainland state parks like Knight Point State Park in North Hero (approximately a 3-mile crossing) or Kill Kare State Park in St. Albans (approximately a 5.5-mile crossing). Kill Kare is generally recommended for power boats due to better launching facilities, while Knight Point is suitable for kayaks and canoes. Note that there are no docks at the campsites themselves; you will need to beach your boat (the shoreline can be rocky) or anchor offshore and wade in.
North Hero Village: The closest mainland access point is about 2 miles from North Hero village. You may be able to arrange private parking through Hero's Welcome General Store in North Hero for a fee.
Water Taxi Services: For those without a boat, licensed water taxi services operate from Grand Isle County. Operators such as Capt. Mark Sperber (802-234-1397) and St. Albans Bay Marina (802-528-3111) can transport you and your gear to the island. It is essential to book these services in advance and communicate your needs, as weather conditions on Lake Champlain can cause delays or alter pickup/drop-off locations.

This boat-in access adds to the adventure and contributes to the remote, unspoiled feel of Cedar Cove and the entire island. Visitors should be prepared to carry their gear from their landing spot to their specific campsite, as distances can vary.

Cedar Cove, as part of Knight Island State Park, offers essential services tailored for a remote, low-impact camping experience, aligning with the park's conservation efforts.

Rustic Lean-to Site: Cedar Cove is one of six rustic log lean-to sites available on Knight Island. These three-sided shelters provide basic protection from the elements while maintaining an open connection to nature. The park also has one designated tent-only site.
Composting Outhouses: To maintain hygiene in this pristine environment, composting privies are strategically located throughout the park, offering a sustainable waste management solution.
No Potable Water: A critical point for all campers: there is no potable water supply on Knight Island. Visitors must bring all their drinking water or be equipped with appropriate filtration or purification methods for lake water.
Fire Rings: Each campsite, including Cedar Cove, comes with a designated fire ring for campfires, allowing for outdoor cooking and warmth. Campers are reminded to adhere to Vermont State Parks' firewood regulations to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Picnic Tables: Sites are typically furnished with a picnic table for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
Pets Allowed: Well-behaved pets are welcome at the campsites and throughout the park, provided they are kept on a leash and their waste is properly disposed of.
Seasonal Ranger Presence: During the operational season (typically Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend), a seasonal park ranger resides on the island. The ranger helps oversee park operations, provides information, and ensures adherence to park rules.

Cedar Cove and Knight Island State Park are distinguished by several unique features that make for a truly memorable Vermont outdoor experience, emphasizing natural beauty and remote adventure.

Exclusive Island Setting: The most significant highlight is the island's remote nature, accessible only by boat. This ensures a quieter, more secluded camping experience than mainland parks, fostering a deep connection with the natural environment of Lake Champlain.
Primitive Camping Experience: Offering rustic lean-tos and a tent site, Cedar Cove caters to those seeking a more traditional and self-reliant camping adventure, away from modern conveniences.
Pristine Lake Access: The park boasts extensive undeveloped shoreline, providing excellent opportunities for swimming in the clean waters of Lake Champlain directly from the island. A shale beach at the north end is particularly suitable for landing and access.
Extensive Trail System: A 2.5-mile perimeter trail encircles the island, connecting the various campsites and offering scenic hiking opportunities through diverse island habitats.
Ideal for Water Activities: Its location in northern Lake Champlain makes it a prime spot for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing. The surrounding waters are known for their abundant fish populations.
Privacy and Tranquility: With campsites strategically spaced around the island, each site offers a high degree of privacy, allowing campers to fully enjoy the peace and quiet of their surroundings.
Conservation Legacy: The island's preservation by the Lake Champlain Land Trust and The Nature Conservancy means visitors are experiencing a truly wild and protected natural area.

Cedar Cove, as part of Knight Island State Park, operates under the standard Vermont State Parks reservation system. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 11 months in advance online or via their central reservation call center. During the operational season (typically from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend), a two-night minimum stay is usually required for advance reservations made before March 1st of the current year. After March 1st, one-night reservations may be permitted for weekdays (Sunday-Thursday). The base site price covers up to four people, with an additional fee for more individuals (up to a maximum of eight per site). A non-refundable reservation fee is also applied to advance bookings. There are no specific "promotions" in the commercial sense, but the benefit of securing a coveted island campsite in advance is considerable. For the most current fee schedules, reservation policies, and any potential updates to park operations, it is always best to consult the official Vermont State Parks website directly.

For reservations and detailed information about Cedar Cove and Knight Island State Park, the primary contact points are through the Vermont State Parks system.

Address: Knight Island, North Hero, VT 05474, USA

For Campsite Reservations and General Information:

Vermont State Parks Central Reservations Call Center:

Phone: 1-888-409-7579 (Available Monday–Friday, 9 AM–4 PM)

For specific inquiries during the operating season, you might be able to reach the park directly, though the central reservation line is usually the best first point of contact:

Knight Island State Park Information Phone (Seasonal): 802-524-6353

For water taxi services to the island, you would need to contact independent operators directly, such as Capt. Mark Sperber (802-234-1397) or St. Albans Bay Marina (802-528-3111). Always verify details and book in advance, especially during peak season.

For us Vermonters, Cedar Cove on Knight Island offers an exceptional and highly suitable opportunity for a local escape into true wilderness. Its unique status as a boat-access-only island park means it naturally filters for those seeking a more authentic, primitive camping experience, fostering a stronger connection with nature than many mainland sites can provide. This is the perfect spot for our community members who own a boat, kayak, or canoe, or are willing to arrange a water taxi, to enjoy a secluded retreat without having to travel far from home. The island's natural beauty, from its clear lake waters for swimming to its extensive trails for hiking, embodies the very essence of Vermont's outdoor appeal. It’s an ideal setting for families and individuals alike to unplug, enjoy self-reliant adventure, and create lasting memories right here in the heart of our beautiful state, experiencing Lake Champlain in a way that truly feels special and untouched.