Lake Champlain cottage retreat in Shelburne

In the quiet town of Burlington, on a cold January 7th, 1919, Raymond Roosevelt Unsworth was born into a world brimming with change. The day before his birth, the nation mourned the loss of Theodore Roosevelt, the larger-than-life former president. In tribute, Raymond’s parents named him after the great man, and when plans for a summer cottage in Shelburne were drawn up, it was only fitting that it be called Camp Roosevelt.
That summer, as the final touches were put on the simple two-story structure nestled by Lake Champlain, baby Raymond took his first dip in its cool waters. This would be the start of a lifelong love affair with the lake, its shimmering surface a constant companion throughout his life. Back then, Shelburne was a sleepy agricultural town, and the camps dotting what would later be known as Twilight Bay were humble, summer-only escapes from the heat of the city.
Camp Roosevelt was no different—a modest, boxy building without insulation, foundation, or the modern conveniences we take for granted today. But it had something far more precious: a cold, clear stream of water piped in from the lake, and a view that could soothe the soul. Over the years, small additions and upgrades were made, as the camp was passed down through the family, each generation adding their own touch to this cherished retreat.
As time marched on, the camp evolved, reflecting the growth of the family that loved it so dearly. In 2003, the camp underwent a major transformation. The old additions were removed, the house was lifted, and a solid foundation was laid underneath. A three-level addition was constructed on the north side, the floor plan was reimagined, and the entire camp was winterized, making it a year-round haven. Yet, in a nod to its storied past, the south side—home to the living room—retained the original woodwork from 1919, a tangible connection to the camp's beginnings.
Today, Camp Roosevelt remains in the family and is more than just a house; it’s a repository of family history, where laughter and love have echoed through the years. It has been the setting for three weddings—each a testament to the enduring love that the camp nurtures. The decor is a loving homage to the past, with vintage furnishings, weathered wood, and family heirlooms that tell stories of days gone by.
Countless birthdays and anniversaries have been celebrated here, each one adding another layer to the rich tapestry of memories that make Camp Roosevelt so special. As guests arrive, they are welcomed not just into a house, but into a legacy, a place where the past and present intertwine, and where the beauty of Lake Champlain continues to inspire all who visit.
We hope that those who stay at Camp Roosevelt will create their own cherished memories, adding their stories to the long history of love, laughter, and togetherness that has defined this special place for over a century.