Valcour Island
Island Island in Lake Champlain, Revolutionary War site
In Lake Champlain near Plattsburgh, Valcour Island is notable for the 1776 naval battle; today it offers camping, kayaking, hiking and shoreline history interpretation.
Valcour Island is an island in Lake Champlain, New York, notable as the location of a Revolutionary War naval engagement in 1776. The island is recognized for its historical significance and conservation value.
The shoreline features sheltered bays and rocky points popular with small-boat visitors for kayaking and day trips. Interpretation panels and markers relate to the island’s naval history and the 1776 battle.
The island was the scene of the Battle of Valcour Island on October 11, 1776, when an American fleet under Benedict Arnold engaged British naval forces. The engagement delayed British movements on Lake Champlain and is considered an important early-action in the American Revolutionary War.
The island lies in Lake Champlain off New York’s western shore near the city of Plattsburgh; it is reached by private boat from nearby mainland launch points.
- Battle of Valcour Island: Site of the 1776 naval engagement between an American fleet commanded by Benedict Arnold and British forces, fought on October 11, 1776.
- Access and visiting: Accessible only by private boat or kayak from the New York shore; there is no regular public ferry.
How to Get to Valcour Island #
Access is by private boat, kayak, or organized tour from Plattsburgh, NY. The island sits roughly 2-4 miles off the Plattsburgh shoreline (varies by launch point). There is no regular ferry service; visitors should plan a private watercraft or charter and check Lake Champlain conditions before leaving shore.
Tips for Visiting Valcour Island #
- Boat from Plattsburgh or from nearby launch points on the New York shore; private kayak or charter recommended for summer visits.
- Bring a waterproof map and GPS - cell service is unreliable on the lake.
- Respect the battlefield: avoid moving stones or artifacts and follow any posted site rules.
Best Time to Visit Valcour Island #
Valcour Island is primarily a warm-season destination. Lake Champlain's surface conditions and recreational traffic make summer the most practical time to visit; winter locks the lake with ice.
Weather & Climate near Valcour Island #
Valcour Island's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Continental - Hot-Summer Continental climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -12°C to 26°C. Moderate rainfall (759 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -2°C and lows of -12°C. Moderate rainfall (44 mm).
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February
February is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -12°C. Moderate rainfall (36 mm).
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March
March is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -6°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm).
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April
April is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (63 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (69 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm).
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 26°C and lows of 15°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm).
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August
August is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 15°C. The wettest month with 89 mm of rain.
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September
September is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 11°C. Regular rainfall (80 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (64 mm).
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November
November is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -7°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm).
