How do I access Kelly Bay?

Kelly Bay is a public boat ramp in Vermont. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Kelly Bay?

Kelly Bay supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

When is the best time to visit Kelly Bay?

The best time to paddle at Kelly Bay is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Kelly Bay?

Water conditions at Kelly Bay include calm, sheltered.

Is Kelly Bay good for beginners?

Yes, Kelly Bay is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Photo by Oliver Plattner on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingShore FishingInformation KioskRestroomsWinter Access

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Kelly Bay

Rouses Point, VT · Boat Ramp · Public

Kelly Bay is a public boat ramp on Lake Champlain near Rouses Point, Vermont. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, shore fishing. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Public launch on Lake Champlain in Vermont. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Rouses Point.

Paddlers visiting Lake Champlain in Vermont can launch from Kelly Bay, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and shore fishing and information kiosk and restrooms and winter access.

Getting here from Rouses Point takes about 5 min, putting Kelly Bay within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Kelly Bay ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Kelly Bay?: Kelly Bay is a public boat ramp in Vermont. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Kelly Bay?: Kelly Bay supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Kelly Bay?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, shore fishing, information kiosk, restrooms, winter access. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Kelly Bay?: The best time to paddle at Kelly Bay is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Kelly Bay?: Water conditions at Kelly Bay include calm, sheltered.
Is Kelly Bay good for beginners?: Yes, Kelly Bay is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 44.9989, -73.3317