Point Au Roche State Park sits on 856 acres along the western shore of Lake Champlain in Clinton County, New York. Established in 1975, this park occupies a limestone peninsula that juts into the lake, creating a landscape unlike most Adirondack-region parks — flat, wooded, and edged with rocky shoreline and sandy beach.

The park’s standout feature is its Deep Bay beach, a sheltered cove with calm, shallow water that makes it one of the better swimming spots on Lake Champlain. Beyond the beach, over 10 miles of trails wind through mature hardwood forest and wetlands, offering hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing depending on the season. Birders come here specifically for the marshland habitat, which supports herons, osprey, and migrating waterfowl along the Atlantic Flyway.

Fishing is productive year-round — Lake Champlain delivers bass, pike, and walleye in warmer months and solid ice fishing through winter. The park also features a nature center that runs interpretive programs, making it a strong pick for families with curious kids.

Camping availability is unconfirmed, so check with New York State Parks before planning an overnight trip. Day-use facilities include picnic areas with lake views and a boat launch for accessing Champlain’s open water.

Best time to visit: Late June through September for swimming and warm-weather trails. Fall brings foliage without the Adirondack crowds. Winter visitors will find groomed cross-country ski trails and a quiet, snow-covered peninsula worth the drive.

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