Stony Point

For Vermonters seeking an authentic outdoor experience that embraces the natural beauty of the Green Mountain State, Stony Point Campground in North Hero stands out as a genuine gem. Located on the picturesque North Hero Island in the heart of Lake Champlain, this Vermont State Park offers a tranquil and immersive escape into nature. It's a place where the calm waters of the lake meet lush, wooded surroundings, providing an ideal setting for relaxation, recreation, and reconnecting with the great outdoors.

While one reviewer humorously noted the presence of "loud" mosquitoes – a common companion in many natural settings – their ultimate takeaway was that "this site was a gem!" This sentiment perfectly captures the essence of Stony Point: its raw, untamed beauty and abundant natural features far outweigh any minor inconveniences, making it a beloved destination for those who truly appreciate Vermont's wilderness. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent under a canopy of trees, park your RV near the lake, or simply enjoy a day of picnicking and swimming, Stony Point Campground provides a serene backdrop for creating lasting memories with family and friends. This article will explore what makes Stony Point an ideal destination for your next Vermont adventure.

Stony Point Campground is nestled within North Hero State Park, situated at the address RP5W+4X, North Hero, VT 05474, USA. This location places it strategically on North Hero Island, one of the beautiful islands in Lake Champlain, making it a uniquely appealing destination for Vermont locals. Accessibility to the campground is straightforward via major routes that lead to the Lake Champlain Islands. From Burlington, Vermont's largest city, it’s a scenic drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour north, crossing causeways and bridges that offer stunning lake views. Travelers from further south in Vermont can easily reach North Hero by following Route 2, which runs directly through the islands.

The park's specific address is often listed as 3803 Lakeview Drive, North Hero, VT 05474, which provides a more precise navigational point for visitors. The design of the park takes advantage of its lakefront location, with many sites offering easy access to the water. While the campground offers a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature, it's not so remote that it becomes inconvenient. North Hero village, with its general store, local eateries, and other amenities, is just a short drive away, ensuring campers have access to necessary supplies and local flavor. This balance of natural escape and convenient access makes Stony Point a prime choice for Vermonters seeking a getaway without venturing too far from home.

• Tent and Trailer Sites: Stony Point offers a total of 99 wooded tent/trailer sites, providing ample space and natural privacy.
• Lean-to Sites: In addition to standard sites, there are 18 lean-to sites available, offering a rustic shelter experience.
• Modern Restrooms: Each of the three camp loops includes a restroom facility with modern plumbing.
• Hot Showers: Restrooms are equipped with hot showers (coin-operated, usually requiring a small fee).
• Sanitary Dump Station: An RV sanitary dump station is available for wastewater disposal; however, individual site hookups for RVs (electric, water, sewer) are generally not provided, making it primarily suitable for self-contained RVs.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available at various points throughout the campground.
• Picnic Grounds: Lakeside picnic areas are available for day use or campers.
• Boat Launch: A boat launch ramp is provided, allowing easy access to Lake Champlain for boating activities.
• Boat Rentals: While a boat launch is available, the park itself typically does not offer boat rentals.
• Nongraded Swimming Beach: A natural swimming beach is available for guests to enjoy the waters of Lake Champlain.
• Group Camping: The park can accommodate group camping, making it suitable for larger gatherings (it's advisable to inquire about group reservations).
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are permitted throughout the park and at campsites, provided they are on a leash and owners clean up after them (written proof of rabies vaccination may be required).

• Wooded Campsites: Most of the 99 tent/trailer sites and 18 lean-tos are situated within a thick, natural wooded environment, offering shade and a sense of immersion.
• Lake Champlain Access: Direct access to Lake Champlain for swimming, boating, and fishing.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park's diverse habitats, including floodplain forests and old fields reverting to forest, create excellent conditions for wildlife viewing, including white-tailed deer, migratory waterfowl (mallards, blacks, wood ducks), ruffed grouse, American woodcock, and various fish species.
• Map Turtle Nesting: A unique highlight is the presence of Map Turtles, which nest along the beach, with a section often roped off during hatching season for their protection.
• Diverse Habitats: The park is noted for its large, relatively undisturbed floodplain forest, which is uncommon in Vermont and provides valuable rare flora habitat.
• Trail System: While not extensively detailed, the park typically features trails connecting campsites and leading to natural points of interest.
• Seasonal Inundation: Nearly one-third of the park lies below 100 feet elevation, meaning parts are subjected to seasonal inundation, which contributes to its unique ecological character and wetland habitats.
• Proximity to North Hero Village: Offers convenient access to local amenities, including Hero's Welcome General Store and other local services.
• Scenic Views: The Lake Champlain setting provides beautiful lake views and opportunities for stunning sunsets and sunrises.

As a Vermont State Park, Stony Point Campground operates under the pricing and reservation policies set by the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation. Therefore, it does not typically offer the same kind of commercial "promotions" or "special offers" that privately owned campgrounds might. The fees charged are generally standardized across state parks and are used to fund the maintenance, operations, and preservation of these natural resources.

However, visitors can benefit from specific booking advantages and passes:

• Reservation System: Camping is by reservation only on designated sites, with a typical 2-night minimum stay. Reservations can be made online or through the Vermont State Parks reservation call center up to 11 months in advance, allowing campers to secure their preferred dates and sites. While not a "discount," this structured booking system ensures availability for those who plan ahead.
• Vermont State Parks Passes: Frequent visitors to Vermont State Parks may benefit from purchasing a Vermont State Parks Pass (e.g., a season pass), which can offer cost savings on day-use fees across multiple parks, though it typically does not reduce camping fees directly.
• Off-Season Considerations: While the primary camping season runs from late May (Friday of Memorial Day Weekend) through early September (Labor Day Weekend), specific dates for construction projects might impact availability, as noted for August 2025 where the campground will close on August 4th, and be first-come, first-served from July 19th through August 4th for that season. It's always best to check the official Vermont State Parks website for the most current information regarding operating seasons, specific closure dates, and any changes to reservation policies or fees.

The value at Stony Point comes from the quality of the natural setting, the well-maintained facilities, and the managed environment that preserves its unique ecological features for public enjoyment.

For detailed information, current availability, or to make a reservation for Stony Point Campground at North Hero State Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: 3803 Lakeview Drive, North Hero, VT 05474, USA (also referenced by geographic code RP5W+4X, North Hero, VT 05474)

Phone: (802) 372-8727 (North Hero State Park Office)

Alternatively, for general Vermont State Parks reservations and information, you can contact the central reservation call center:

Reservation Call Center: 1-888-409-7579 (Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm)

Email: parks@vermont.gov (for general inquiries to Vermont State Parks)

It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially for popular weekends and during peak season, due to the park's popularity.

For Vermonters, Stony Point Campground in North Hero isn't just another camping destination; it’s a cherished local treasure that embodies the very essence of the state's natural charm and outdoor lifestyle. Its location on North Hero Island, easily accessible from across Vermont, means a relatively short drive from anywhere in the state can transport locals to a serene lakeside retreat. This convenience makes it ideal for spontaneous weekend escapes or extended summer vacations, allowing Vermonters to maximize their time enjoying nature rather than traveling.

The true suitability for locals lies in Stony Point's commitment to preserving the natural environment while providing essential amenities. The wooded sites offer privacy and a genuine connection to Vermont's forests, while the direct access to Lake Champlain provides endless opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing – activities deeply ingrained in the local culture. The park's efforts to protect unique wildlife, such as the Map Turtles, resonate with Vermonters' appreciation for conservation and biodiversity.

Even the humorous mention of "loud" mosquitoes in a review speaks to the authenticity of the experience; it's a reminder that this is real Vermont wilderness, not a manicured resort, and that authenticity is precisely what many locals seek. The presence of modern restrooms and hot showers ensures comfort without compromising the rustic appeal. Stony Point Campground offers a perfect blend of tranquility, recreation, and a deep connection to the natural landscape that makes it an indispensable part of the Vermont outdoor adventure for its residents. It's a place where families can create traditions, friends can gather, and individuals can find peace, all within the beautiful, familiar embrace of their home state.

Stony Point

RP5W+4X, North Hero, VT 05474, USA