South Hero Island – Sept 2025 – TravelWithTheSlowskys

Two years ago, we camped at the Champlain Resort Adult Campground (previous post) along the shores of Lake Champlain in South Hero, north of Burlington, VT, so I’ll try not to rehash old territory too much. Suffice it to say that the reason we came back is because it is such an awesome place.

The campground (Champlain Resort Adult Campground) is just tremendous (full hookups, fire ring, picnic table), with great owners who are extraordinarily friendly and helpful. For whatever reasons, it looked like an Airstream-only campground (it is not), although there was a new (yes, you read that right) Bowlus parked there as well.

If you catch yourselves anywhere in Vermont in September you are doing it right. Vermont is a stunningly beautiful state, and in September the temperatures (50’s – 70’s) are perfect for just about any activity. We were a few weeks early for the leaves changing colors, but the views were still spectacular.

Our primary mission coming back to South Hero was to return to the Island Line Trail/Burlington Greenway for a bike ride. We departed by bike right from the campground on gorgeous back roads for a few miles where we caught the beginning of the trail. The trail (mostly fine gravel) is in fabulous shape and follows a causeway across Lake Champlain. To allow boat traffic, there is one point where there is a bike ferry to transport you (seasonal, check availability) across this channel (for a small donation). The trail continues into Burlington, so all-in we biked close to 40 miles, round trip.

We also took a beautiful driving road trip up through South Hero Island and Grand Isle, crossing into New York state very close to the Canadian border. We then followed the lake south on the western side to Plattsburgh where, wouldn’t you know it, we made it to one of our favorite culinary stops – Clare and Carl’s. If you have not made it to Clare and Carl’s Texas Red Hots for a “Michigan”, then sad for you. Michigan is the name of the hot dog roll they use, which uses more cream and sugar than a typical hot dog roll. Mustard is then applied, followed by a steamed hot dog, their own spicy chili, and onions. Get two – you’ll thank me. And if by chance you order the poutine or gravy fries, well, so be it. You’ll catch your fruit and veggies next meal.