The village is located in the town of Champlain, approximately 4 miles (6 km) west of Lake Champlain, and is north of Plattsburgh. The population was 1,101 at the 2010 census. The lake and the village were named in honor of Samuel de Champlain, who first surveyed the area in 1609. It was part of Canada until 1763, and became part of the United States in 1783.
The Village of Champlain has many unique features:
- 1 minute off the Northway/ I87
- Touches the Quebec border
- During the war of 1812, it was part of the Underground Railroad, canal boat building industry, Sheridan Iron Works
- Samuel de Champlain History Center
- Location on the Great Chazy River featuring a boat launch, fishing access, kayak launch, and more
- Community garden, children's garden, farmer's market
- Champlain Meeting House: privately owned and available to the public at little to no charge
- Tree City USA: annual Arbor Day celebration
- Designated as an AARP Age-Friendly Community
- Harry McManus Recreation trail
- Annual festivals: summer and Christmas
- Champlain Kids Connected: activities for children, free of charge
