Bass Island Campsite 1

Bass Island Campsite 1 offers one of the most exclusive and sought-after outdoor experiences in the Empire State. Nestled within the crystalline waters of Lake George, specifically in the scenic "Narrows" section near Bolton Landing, this destination is not your typical mainland campground. Bass Island is a "single-site" island, meaning when you reserve Campsite 1, you are effectively reserving the entire island for your party. For New York residents looking to escape the crowded suburban sprawl or the bustling streets of Manhattan, this site provides a rare level of solitude where the only neighbors you have are the loons and the occasional passing boat.

Managed as part of the Glen Island Group by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Bass Island embodies the rugged, natural beauty of the Adirondack Park. The island is partially shaded by native hardwoods and evergreens, offering a cool respite during the humid New York summers. Because it sits on the west side of the lake near the Tongue Mountain Range, campers are treated to dramatic views of the rising sun over the water and the silhouette of the mountains. It is a premier choice for those who want a "civilized" wilderness experience, combining the thrill of island living with the structural reliability of state-maintained facilities.

Location and accessibility are the most critical factors to understand when planning a trip to Bass Island Campsite 1. The physical address is listed near Tongue Mountain in Bolton Landing, but potential visitors must remember that there is no road access to the site. To reach your private island, you must travel by water. Most local campers launch their vessels from private marinas in Bolton Landing or use the public launch sites provided by the DEC. If you do not own a boat, several local outfitters in the Warren County area offer boat rentals or water taxi services specifically for island campers.

• Accessible strictly by boat, ensuring a quiet environment free from automotive noise.
• Located in the Glen Island Group of the Lake George Islands, east of Bolton Landing.
• Features a brand-new shore dock designed to accommodate one boat safely.
• Check-in is required at the Glen Island Ranger Station before proceeding to the campsite.
• Proximity to the Tongue Mountain hiking trails, accessible by a short boat ride to the mainland trailheads.

The services offered at Bass Island Campsite 1 focus on providing the essential "bones" of a great camping trip while leaving the rest to the adventurer's imagination. As a state-run facility, the site is kept clean and regulated to protect the delicate island ecosystem. It is important to note that while the site is "primitive" in terms of utilities—there is no electricity or running water—the DEC provides high-quality amenities to make the stay comfortable. Residents are expected to follow "Carry In, Carry Out" protocols for trash to maintain the pristine nature of the Lake George water, which serves as a primary drinking water source for the region.

• A dedicated wooden tent platform to keep your sleeping area level and dry.
• A central metal fireplace provided for cooking and evening campfires.
• A standard sturdy picnic table with impressive views of the surrounding lake.
• An on-site pit privy (toilet facility) located discreetly on the island.
• Access to the Glen Island Store via boat for ice, firewood, and basic supplies.
• Ranger patrols to ensure safety and compliance with park regulations.

The features and highlights of Bass Island are what truly set it apart from other New York campgrounds. The most significant highlight is the maximum occupancy of just four people, which guarantees that the island never feels overcrowded. The island’s terrain is a mix of flat ground at the south end, perfect for extra gear or a second small tent, and rocky shorelines that are ideal for fishing. Smallmouth and largemouth bass are abundant in these waters, making the island a dream for anglers who want to cast a line directly from their campsite at dawn. Additionally, the water around the island is famously clear, allowing for excellent swimming and snorkeling right off the dock.

• Complete privacy as the only occupants of the entire island.
• Excellent shoreline fishing for bass, lake trout, and landlocked salmon.
• A "two-story" fishery environment where light penetrates deep into the water.
• Crystal clear swimming areas with sandy and rocky bottoms.
• Perfect vantage points for photography, especially of the Tongue Mountain Range.
• Nighttime stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution from the mainland.

For those interested in booking this unique location, reservations must be made through the official New York State camping reservation system. Due to its popularity as a single-site island, it is often booked months in advance, especially for holiday weekends like the 4th of July or Labor Day. Campers are encouraged to have their equipment ready and be on the water early, as check-in times are strictly enforced by the regional rangers.

Address: 37 Bass Nr Tongue Mtn, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA

Phone: (518) 623-1200 (Regional Office)

What is worth choosing Bass Island Campsite 1 for? For the New York outdoor enthusiast, it is worth choosing for the unmatched sense of ownership and peace. Choosing this site means you aren't just renting a patch of dirt; you are reigning over your own private kingdom for the duration of your stay. It is the ideal choice for a romantic getaway, a small family adventure, or a quiet fishing retreat. If you value the independence of boat-access camping and the beauty of the "Queen of American Lakes," Bass Island Campsite 1 provides an unforgettable Adirondack experience that mainland parks simply cannot replicate.