Indian Lake Islands Campground
00 reviewSTATE ROUTE 30, SABAEL, New York, 12864, United States
Indian Lake Islands Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / 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
Canoe rental fee: $20 per day. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles parked in designated areas.
About this campground
Escape to a world where pristine islands dot the crystal-clear waters of Indian Lake's southern shore. Indian Lake Islands Campground invites adventurers to experience the rare magic of island camping in the heart of the Adirondacks. Picture yourself paddling to your own private island sanctuary, where towering pines whisper ancient stories and the only neighbors are curious loons and soaring eagles. Whether you choose to cast your line into the lake's abundant waters, explore hidden coves by kayak, or simply lose yourself in the rhythm of wilderness life, this extraordinary campground promises the kind of solitude and natural beauty that modern life rarely affords.
Indian Lake Islands Campground offers a rugged camping experience with all sites requiring boat access. Options include primitive campsites and group camping.
Historical SignificanceNestled within the six-million-acre tapestry of Adirondack Park, Indian Lake Islands carries the legacy of America's first great wilderness preserve. The surrounding region tells the story of logging camps, Native American heritage, and the birth of the American conservation movement. Modern explorers can deepen their connection to this storied landscape with visits to the renowned Adirondack Museum, where the region's rich history comes alive, or the Adirondack Park Visitor Interpretive Center, which unveils the natural secrets of this protected paradise.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives like a gentle friend at Indian Lake, bringing comfortable days perfect for swimming and cool evenings ideal for campfire gatherings. As autumn paints the surrounding forests in brilliant golds and crimsons, the lake becomes a mirror for nature's masterpiece, offering photographers and leaf-peepers a front-row seat to the Adirondacks' legendary fall display. Winter transforms this aquatic paradise into a frozen wonderland, where the brave can experience the stark beauty of ice-locked islands and snow-laden pines under star-filled skies.
ElevationThe campground rests at the gentle elevation typical of the central Adirondack lake region, where mountain-fed waters create a natural amphitheater of wilderness beauty.
Natural Features and SceneryEach island in this aquatic archipelago stands as a testament to the raw beauty of the Adirondack wilderness. Ancient forests carpet these water-bound sanctuaries, their canopies creating cathedral-like spaces where sunlight filters through in golden streams. The surrounding waters reflect an ever-changing canvas of sky and forest, while granite boulders worn smooth by centuries stand sentinel along the shores. This is nature's architecture at its finest – where every view frames a postcard-perfect scene of untouched wilderness.
Geological RegionSet within the ancient Adirondack Mountains, Indian Lake Islands showcases the geological artistry of glacial carving. These forested islands, sculpted by ice age forces and polished by millennia of wind and water, rise from the lake like emerald jewels. The campground offers a front-row seat to the Adirondacks' unique geological story, where billion-year-old rocks meet pristine waters in a landscape that defines wilderness camping at its most authentic.
Campsite details
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as large and well-forested, ensuring ample space for campers.
Sites PrivacyAll campsites offer a high level of privacy due to the forested environment and the separation between sites.
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the main lake for easier access; sites further out are better for privacy but may require long paddling.
Best CampsitesUsers highlight Site #3, Site #39, and a site 1.5 hours away for private and scenic experiences.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
10:00 AM
Stay Limit
- Maximum 14 nights
- only 14 cumulative nights permitted between July 1 and Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to 6 individuals per campsite.
Groups
Group campsites can accommodate up to 12 people. Specific site details such as F013 are designated for larger groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are grouped in loops (e.g., Sites 001-010, Sites 011-041, Sites 042-055), spread along the eastern shore and on islands.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is unspecified, but July 1 through Labor Day allows only 14 cumulative nights.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made directly at the campground or at the ranger station.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible as per user review, but exact site counts are not stated.
Cancellation PolicyReservations need to be canceled before check-in for any refund; specific penalties are not outlined in the content.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Indian Lake Islands Campground offers extensive recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The unique boat-only access adds an adventurous element to the camping experience.
Hiking
The campground provides several hiking trails, though specific details about the trails, such as difficulty and length, are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is popular, with species such as lake trout, rainbow trout, and northern pike available in Indian Lake.Boating
Boating is a key feature of the campground, with powerboats, rowboats, and canoes allowed. Canoes can also be rented onsite for approximately $20 per day.Wildlife viewing
Campers report seeing and hearing a variety of wildlife, including coyotes, providing a strong connection to nature.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Canoeing, powerboating, and kayaking are popular water sports at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be built in designated fireplaces using dead and down wood; chainsaws are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM
Hazards
General hazardsNo black bears reported based on user reviews; campers may encounter coyotes and other wildlife. Sites are accessible only by boat, requiring personal preparation.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Closest emergency services are unspecified in the provided content.
Good to know
Peak season datesLikely July 1 through Labor Day, though exact dates are not specified.
Trash and recyclingA carry-in, carry-out garbage policy is enforced. Campers are required to use clear or white garbage bags for waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Indian Lake; campsites are either lakeshore or island-based.
Common complaintsSome sites may require lengthy paddling (up to 5 hours) to access. Campground facilities described as 'clean but tired' in reviews.
HostA young, accommodating ranger has received praise for being efficient and friendly.
Campground Map
STATE ROUTE 30, SABAEL, New York, 12864, United States
Driving directionsFrom New York State Thruway (I-90), take Exit 27 at Amsterdam; go north on Route 30 through Wells and Speculator. The campground is 12 miles north on Route 30 from Speculator, on the right side of the road. From the Adirondack Northway (I-87), take Exit 23 at Warrensburg; take Route 9 North to Route 28 West to Indian Lake Village. The Campground is 12 miles south of Village of Indian Lake, on the left side of Rte. 30.
Access via state routes; no reports of unpaved roads or seasonal closures.Nearby places
Speculator (12 miles), Indian Lake Village (12 miles), Blue Mountain Lake (27 miles), Newcomb (59 miles)
Nearby supplies
Convenience store within 10 miles
Indian Lake Village offers restaurants and shopping
firewood and ice are sold at the campground entry point.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Indian Lake Islands Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Campers describe Indian Lake Islands Campground as a secluded, scenic, and adventurous destination. The boat-only access and the pristine wilderness setting are frequently praised.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
"The campsites were very clean and separate from other campers." "We scrounged downed wood for a fire and had a wonderful night." "The view was incredible... We will definitely be returning."
Common Concerns
Some reviewers noted that the campground facilities are somewhat aged, and maintenance could be improved. One camper stated, "The campground was a bit tired (clean and sufficient but not more than...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own bear box and camping supplies as the facilities are primitive. Canoes can be rented on-site if you don’t own a boat.
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to accessibility and favorable weather. Some mention the campground is challenging to access during other seasons due to the boat-only requirement and weather...
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Camper Quotes
"Wow! What an awesome camping experience... The site was right on the lake, beautiful, and even included an outhouse." "Priceless Private Site #3 and epic views."
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #39 is noted for being clean and close to the main area. Site #3 is praised for its privacy and views.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility for disabled campers.
Pet-Friendly Features
Campers mention that pets are welcome as long as they are leashed and supervised.
Last updated August 10, 2025