Glen Island (Lake George Is.)
00 reviewPO Box 993, BOLTON LANDING, New York, 12814-0993, United States
Glen Island (Lake George Is.)
$3.00 - $3.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
A $3/night refuse surcharge is imposed for camping permits. Additional fees may apply for obtaining a Lake George Park Commission user permit.
About this campground
Escape to your own private island paradise at Lake George Islands, where adventure begins the moment you push off from shore. These boat-accessible campsites scattered across the pristine waters of Lake George offer an unparalleled wilderness experience. Choose your island base camp from Glen, Long, or Narrow Island, each with its own welcoming headquarters where friendly staff help you settle into your lakeside retreat. Days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line into crystal-clear waters teeming with fish, explore hidden hiking trails through ancient forests, spot eagles soaring overhead, or simply sail across the lake as the sun paints the sky in brilliant hues.
The Glen Island Group caters to primitive camping, accessible only by boat. Campsites allow for up to 6 individuals and 2 tents per site. Each site is equipped with basic amenities like a dock, fireplace, picnic table, and pit privy.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time on these storied islands where history runs as deep as the lake itself. During the Great Depression, young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps arrived here with a vision, transforming raw wilderness into the accessible paradise you see today. Their legacy from the 1930s and 1940s lives on in carefully crafted campsites and trails that blend seamlessly with nature. But the story goes back even further—these islands have witnessed centuries of human history, from Native American encampments to colonial battles, all set against the backdrop of a lake born from ancient glaciers.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Adirondacks at Lake George Islands. Summer arrives as a warm embrace, with balmy days perfect for swimming and nights ideal for stargazing from your island campsite. The humid air carries the scent of pine and the sound of loons across the water. As autumn approaches, the islands burst into a spectacular display of fall colors. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though the harsh cold reserves the islands for only the hardiest souls. Spring brings renewal as the ice melts and the forest awakens, making summer and early fall the prime seasons for your island camping adventure.
ElevationRising from the mirror-like surface of Lake George, these islands offer varying elevations that create diverse microclimates and stunning vantage points across the water.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover your own secluded corner of paradise among the towering pines and hardwoods that blanket these islands. Each campsite is thoughtfully positioned to maximize privacy while showcasing the breathtaking beauty of America's 'Queen of Lakes.' Wake to mist rising off the water, spend afternoons in the dappled shade of centuries-old trees, and fall asleep to the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. The dense forest canopy creates natural cathedral spaces, while rocky outcroppings provide perfect perches for watching spectacular sunsets paint the lake in shades of gold and crimson.
Geological RegionCamp atop an ancient geological wonder in the heart of the majestic Adirondack Mountains. Lake George itself tells a story written in stone and ice—formed at the twilight of the last ice age when massive glaciers retreated northward, leaving behind deposits that dammed two prehistoric rivers. This geological drama created the 32-mile-long lake that cradles these camping islands today. The surrounding Adirondack peaks, some of the oldest exposed rock on Earth, stand as silent sentinels over your island campsite, their billion-year history adding gravitas to every sunrise and sunset you'll witness from these shores.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAt least one campsite must be registered and occupied by a person with mobility impairment to qualify for accessible sites.
Sites SizeEach site accommodates up to 6 people and allows 2 tents.
Sites PrivacyMost sites are described as well-forested and private.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesEach site accommodates up to 6 people, 2 tents, and one boat. Accessible sites require one member with mobility impairment.
Best CampsitesNo individual campsites explicitly rated or described as 'best.'
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Check-out
10:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights. From July 1 through Labor Day, only 14 cumulative nights are permitted.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site is limited to 6 individuals.
Groups
Group camping sites and their specific capacities are not detailed in the source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSpread out over Glen Island, Long Island, and Narrow Island headquarters.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with 14-night cumulative limit during peak summer season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online and up to 9 months in advance.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not explicitly mentioned; reservations are emphasized.
Cancellation PolicyCampers must register for their campsite by 9:00 PM on the first night of their reservation or the campsite may be subject to re-rental and fees will be forfeited.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Glen Island group at Lake George offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities including fishing, hiking, bird watching, and all types of boating. Lake George is renowned for its clear waters supporting a diverse fish population and excellent boating conditions, making it a regional recreational gem.
Hiking
Lake George offers over 50 miles of hiking trails that lead to mountain overlooks or remote ponds. These trails vary in difficulty and are popular among outdoor enthusiasts.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant in Lake George. The lake supports a two-story fishery with landlocked salmon and lake trout found at depths of 50 to 180 feet, while bass and pike frequent the weed beds.Biking
Biking is available within 10 miles of the campground, although specific trails or terrain descriptions are not provided.Boating
Boating is a major activity due to the boat-only accessibility of the campsites. All types of watercraft are permitted on Lake George, and the lake's extensive area facilitates sailing, jet-skiing, canoeing, and kayaking.Wildlife viewing
Bird watching and other wildlife observation activities are available, although details on specific species or habitats are not mentioned.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned or detailed in the available information.Water Sports
Water sports such as jet-skiing, water-skiing, and canoeing are supported by the lake's extensive recreational facilities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires must be built in fireplaces provided. Chainsaws and cutting down wood are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM; strictly enforced.
Hazards
General hazardsAccessibility is limited to boat traffic, with no pets permitted. Chainsaws are prohibited.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Hospital within 10 miles; Ranger Station available.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingA $3 per night refuse surcharge is applied to cover refuse management costs. Recycling stations are available within the campground.
Proximity to water featuresAll sites provide direct lake access with docks for at least one boat.
Common complaintsSites are limited to accessibility by boat, which may not suit all campers.
HostNo host information provided.
Campground Map
PO Box 993, BOLTON LANDING, New York, 12814-0993, United States
Driving directionsLake George is accessible from Route I-87 (Adirondack Northway) using exits 21-25, and 28, then Routes 9, 9N, 8, and 74.
The campground is accessible by boat only. Road access involves reaching marinas where boats can be launched.Nearby places
Bolton Landing: approximately 5 miles, Lake George Village: approximately 10 miles.
Nearby supplies
Convenience stores, boat rentals, and restaurants are within 10 miles of the campground.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Glen Island (Lake George Is.) has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the unique boat-only accessibility of the Glen Island campsites, emphasizing the well-forested, private nature of the sites. The lake's natural beauty and abundant recreation options are frequently praised.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the privacy of the well-forested sites and the range of activities, including fishing, hiking, and boating. The clear waters of Lake George are described as exceptional for...
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Common Concerns
Some users note the importance of reserving campsites early, as locations are limited, particularly during peak seasons.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
One camper advises reserving a camping location early in the morning because you cannot simply arrive at the islands for day use or picnicking. "Make sure you reserve your camping location here at...
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Seasonal Insights
The source materials do not provide explicit seasonal trends but note that the maximum stay limit is 14 nights between July 1 and Labor Day, suggesting high demand during summer.
Camper Quotes
"Camping here is unique; Lake George Islands campsites are accessible by boat only and are spread out over much of the lake."—André Nicolas
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsites GLENBURNBB003, GLENBURNBB004, and others within loops such as Big Burnt, Brush, and Uncas accommodate up to 6 people with no hookups for water or electricity. These sites are equipped with...
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Accessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features, but the campground requires that at least one member of the camping party must have mobility impairment to reserve accessible sites.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at any of the islands, docks, or moored vessels.
Last updated August 10, 2025