Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
Shelburne Bay
Shelburne Bay is a public boat ramp on Lake Champlain near Shelburne, Vermont. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. 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
Boat Ramp accessing Lake Champlain near Shelburne, Vermont. calm and sheltered conditions.
Shelburne Bay provides shoreline access to Lake Champlain in Vermont, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.
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. The Northeast offers seasonal paddling with vibrant fall foliage and warm summer days on the water.
Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and shore fishing and information kiosk and restrooms and winter access.
Shelburne Bay sits about 5 min from Shelburne, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Shelburne Bay ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
- •Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
- •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.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Shelburne Bay?
- Shelburne Bay is a public boat ramp in Vermont. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Shelburne Bay?
- Shelburne 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 Shelburne Bay?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, shore fishing, information kiosk, restrooms, winter access. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Shelburne Bay?
- The best time to paddle at Shelburne Bay is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at Shelburne Bay?
- Water conditions at Shelburne Bay include calm, sheltered.
- Is Shelburne Bay good for beginners?
- Yes, Shelburne 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: 44.3991, -73.2349
Quick Facts
- State
- Vermont
- Region
- Northeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Shelburne
44.3991, -73.2349
Best Paddling in Vermont
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Lake Champlain
6 other launches on this water body
Willsboro Bay
New York · 7.7 mi
Converse Bay
Vermont · 7.7 mi
Safe Harbor WIllsboro Bay
New York · 7.9 mi
Colchester Point
Vermont · 9.7 mi
Bay Harbor Marina
Vermont · 10.2 mi
Malletts Bay
Vermont · 10.6 mi
Nearby Paddling
Shelburne Pond
Vermont · 3.9 mi
Lake Iroquois
Vermont · 7.3 mi
Willsboro Bay
New York · 7.7 mi
Converse Bay
Vermont · 7.7 mi
Safe Harbor WIllsboro Bay
New York · 7.9 mi

Heineberg Bridge
Vermont · 8.8 mi