Kayaking Lake Champlain: DAR & Button Bay Put-Ins

Updated July 14, 2026

Whitford House is one of the closest places to stay for paddling this stretch of Lake Champlain, and guests are welcome to use the inn's kayaks — soft roof racks, PFDs, and paddles provided. The nearest put-in is DAR State Park in Addison, about a six-minute drive, with a boat launch that looks across the water to the Adirondacks. A little farther north, near Vergennes, Button Bay State Park is a second, more sheltered launch with a state-park day-use area. Mornings are usually calmest; the cottage sleeps 4 and has a full kitchen for an early start.

DAR State Park — the closest put-in (about 6 minutes)

DAR State Park, on Lake Champlain in Addison, is the easiest launch from the cottage — roughly a six-minute drive. It has a boat access on the lake with a wide western view toward the Adirondack High Peaks, and it sits beside the historic John Strong Mansion. Load up the inn's kayaks, put in here, and paddle the quiet shoreline. Because the lake opens up to the west, mornings before the afternoon breeze are the best time to be on the water.

Button Bay State Park — a sheltered bay to the north

A short drive north toward Vergennes, Button Bay State Park sits on a bluff above Lake Champlain with a day-use area and a launch onto a more sheltered bay — a good option when the open lake is breezy. The park is known for its namesake "buttons" (small clay concretions along the shore) and long views across the water. It pairs well with a stop in Vergennes for lunch or dinner (see the dining guide).

Tips for a good paddle

• Go early. Lake Champlain is usually calmest in the morning; wind and chop build in the afternoon.
• Check conditions. This is a big lake — watch the forecast, stay near shore, and always wear the provided PFD.
• Bring layers and water. It can be cool on the water even on a warm day.
• Make a lake day of it. Add Basin Harbor and the Maritime Museum — see the Lake Champlain day guide.

State-park hours, launch access, and fees vary by season — confirm current details for DAR State Park and Button Bay State Park before you go, especially outside summer.