Alger Island access point

The Alger Island access point, situated on the pristine shores of Fourth Lake in Old Forge, New York, serves as the gateway to one of the most unique camping experiences in the Adirondack Park. Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), this location is officially known as the Fourth Lake Day-Use Area and serves as the administrative headquarters for the Alger Island Campground. For local New Yorkers seeking a true escape from the standard car-camping routine, Alger Island offers a rare opportunity to leave the mainland behind and embrace a "castaway" lifestyle on a secluded island in the Fulton Chain of Lakes.

The charm of Alger Island lies in its isolation. Because the campground is accessible only by boat, the atmosphere remains quiet and preserved, free from the noise of passing vehicle traffic. Historically known as Big Island or Deer Island before being acquired by the state in 1950, the island features 15 lean-to sites and 2 tent sites scattered along its wooded shoreline. This is not just a place to sleep; it is a destination for those who enjoy the logistics and adventure of a paddling trip or a motorboat excursion. From the moment you check in at the mainland access point on Petrie Road, you are transitioning into a world where the water is your primary highway and the Adirondack wilderness is your closest neighbor.

Located at 303 Petrie Road in Old Forge, the access point is strategically positioned to provide easy transit to the island. Old Forge is a hub of activity in Central New York, known for its water parks and scenic railroads, but the Petrie Road location feels worlds apart. For those traveling from the Utica area or Southern New York, the route typically involves taking Route 28 North into Old Forge, then following local markers toward the South Shore Road. The access point itself provides the necessary infrastructure for a successful launch, including a well-maintained parking area and a launch site suitable for small watercraft such as canoes, kayaks, and rowboats.

Accessibility at the mainland headquarters is a priority for the state. The Fourth Lake Day-Use Area features a wheelchair accessible parking lot and restrooms on the mainland, allowing all visitors to enjoy the picnic facilities before heading out on the water. While the island itself is rugged and forested, the headquarters provides a comfortable staging area. For visitors with larger motorized boats, a full state-owned boat launch with a ramp is located nearby in the village of Inlet, allowing campers to launch there and navigate to their reserved island sites. The Petrie Road location remains the primary spot for registration, permits, and small-craft launching, ensuring a centralized and professional management experience.

The services offered at the Alger Island access point and on the island itself are designed to support a primitive yet organized camping trip. Because the island is a "boat-in only" facility, the services on the mainland are vital, including potable water spigots and public restrooms where campers can freshen up before their journey. On the island, the focus shifts to self-reliance, supported by the carry-in, carry-out garbage policy which helps maintain the ecological integrity of the lake. The helpful staff at the headquarters are available to assist with permits and provide local weather updates, which are essential for safe lake navigation.

• Administrative headquarters for registration and camping permits.
• Mainland boat launch specifically designed for "cartop" watercraft like canoes and kayaks.
• Public restroom facilities available at the mainland access point for day users and campers.
• Carry-in, carry-out garbage management program to protect the Adirondack environment.
• Potable water fill-up stations located at the Fourth Lake Day-Use Area.
• Professional staff oversight to ensure site maintenance and adherence to quiet hours.
• Emergency communication protocols and night patrol for guest safety.

Features and highlights of Alger Island and its access point center on the breathtaking views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes. The island sites are equipped with classic Adirondack lean-tos, which provide a sturdy, roofed shelter that allows campers to stay dry and comfortable while still feeling connected to the outdoors. A hiking trail circles the entire island, offering guests a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region without ever leaving their temporary home. The surrounding waters of Fourth Lake are a highlight for anglers, who can find lake trout, rainbow trout, and Atlantic salmon just offshore from their campsites.

• 15 rustic lean-to sites featuring built-in fireplaces and hibachis for cooking.
• Mainland picnic area with tables and grills, perfect for day trips.
• Extensive wildlife viewing opportunities including loons, bald eagles, and white-tailed deer.
• A scenic 4-mile paddling route from the launch to the island through clear Adirondack waters.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow dogs to join the island adventure on a leash.
• Close proximity to the Enchanted Forest Water Safari for those who want a mix of nature and attractions.
• A well-maintained perimeter trail on the island for morning walks or birdwatching.
• Fire rings and picnic tables provided at every individual island campsite.

For those planning a trip, it is important to contact the headquarters for site availability, especially during the peak summer months. Reservations can be made through the official New York State camping system, but the local staff at the access point can provide the most current information regarding lake conditions and parking availability.

Address: 303 Petrie Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420, USA
Phone: (315) 369-3224
Mobile Phone: +1 315-369-3224

What is worth choosing about Alger Island is the sense of accomplishment and serenity that comes with island living. In a state with many crowded campgrounds, Alger Island is worth choosing because it filters out the typical distractions of modern life. There are no RV generators or car alarms on the island; instead, you are surrounded by the lapping of the lake and the call of the loons. It is a factual, professional, and well-managed site that offers a higher level of privacy than almost any other campground in the Old Forge area. For families with children, the island provides a safe and contained "kingdom" to explore, making it a highly educational and engaging environment for young adventurers.

Furthermore, the mainland access point makes the logistics of an island trip much simpler than one might expect. With dedicated parking and clean mainland restrooms, the "before and after" of your trip is handled with ease. Choosing Alger Island means choosing to experience the Adirondacks as they were meant to be seen—from the water. Whether you are an expert paddler or a family with a motorboat, the combination of professional DEC management and the raw beauty of Fourth Lake makes this campground a premier choice for anyone looking to deepen their connection with the natural world. It is a quintessential New York experience that remains affordable, accessible, and unforgettable.