Hermit Island Campground

For New Yorkers who have experienced the crowded shorelines of popular mainland parks, Hermit Island Campground offers a radical and refreshing alternative. Located within the crystal-clear waters of Lake George, this site is part of the prestigious Glen Island Group of the Lake George Islands Campgrounds. What sets Hermit Island apart from almost every other destination in the region is its exclusivity. As a "one-campsite island," it provides a rare opportunity to have an entire island to yourself. For local residents from the Capital Region or those traveling north from the city, this is the pinnacle of the Adirondack "Forever Wild" experience—a chance to truly unplug and live the island life in the middle of the "Queen of American Lakes."

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Hermit Island is a primitive site designed for those who appreciate self-reliance and the beauty of nature. There are no roads, no cars, and no electricity here; instead, you are surrounded by the gentle lapping of the lake against the rocks and the scent of ancient pines. It is a destination that appeals to the "Original Vacationer"—those who seek the silent solitude that Lake George was famous for before the era of modern development. Whether you are planning a romantic retreat or a small family adventure, the feeling of owning your own piece of paradise for a few days is an experience that remains etched in the memory of every visitor.

Location and accessibility are the primary factors that define the Hermit Island experience. The campground is officially addressed at 39 Hermit, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA, but it is important to understand that this is a boat-access-only location. Most campers begin their journey by driving to Bolton Landing, where they can utilize public or private boat launches, such as the Norowal Marina. From the launch, it is a scenic paddle or motorboat ride into the "Narrows," the most picturesque and island-heavy section of Lake George. The island is strategically located a short distance from the Glen Island Ranger Station, which serves as the administrative hub for the area. This proximity is highly convenient, as it allows campers a quick paddle to the ranger station for registration, emergency assistance, or a visit to the small camp store for essentials.

The services offered at Hermit Island Campground reflect its status as a primitive wilderness site. While you will not find the amenities of a luxury resort, the DEC provides the essential infrastructure required to support a safe and sustainable stay. The focus is on low-impact recreation and preserving the pristine water quality of Lake George. Because it is a single-site island, the services are dedicated entirely to your group, ensuring you never have to wait or share facilities with strangers.

• Private Docking: The island features its own dedicated wooden dock, suitable for one boat, serving as your primary gateway to the mainland.
• Waste Management: A standard pit toilet facility is maintained on the island to ensure hygiene while preserving the rustic environment.
• Administrative Support: Nearby access to the Glen Island Ranger Station for check-in, check-out, and regional information.
• Camp Store Access: Proximity to the Glen Island store, where campers can purchase ice, firewood, and basic supplies without returning to the mainland.
• Permit Services: Integration with the Lake George Park Commission for necessary boat permits and campsite registrations.
• Emergency Communication: Access to the ranger station’s radio or phone systems in the event of severe weather or medical needs.

The features and highlights of Hermit Island are what make it one of the most coveted reservations in the Adirondacks. The island acts as a natural fortress of privacy, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and neighboring islands. For those who enjoy photography, fishing, or simply watching the sunrise over the water, the vantage points from this small piece of land are second to none. The site is designed to accommodate a small group comfortably, providing a "base camp" for all types of aquatic adventures.

• Total Privacy: As the only site on the island, you enjoy exclusive use of the entire land area during your stay.
• Wilderness Amenities: The site includes a sturdy picnic table and a stone-lined fire pit for cooking and evening gatherings.
• Premier Fishing: The deep waters around the Glen Island group are famous for landlocked salmon, lake trout, and smallmouth bass.
• Proximity to Glen Island: A very short paddle to the ranger station for supplies, making it one of the most convenient "secluded" sites.
• Excellent Swimming: Clear, deep water access directly from the island's rocky shore or dock.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Unlike some state-managed areas, dogs are permitted at this site, provided they are kept under control and respect the wildlife.
• Star-Gazing: Minimal light pollution in the Narrows provides a spectacular view of the Milky Way on clear nights.

Securing a stay at Hermit Island requires careful planning and advanced booking. Due to its unique status as a private-island site, it is often booked months in advance through the state’s reservation system. Prospective campers are encouraged to verify their boat's capabilities and ensure they have all necessary "Carry-In, Carry-Out" supplies before departing from Bolton Landing.

Contact Information:

• Physical Address: 39 Hermit, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA
• Phone: (518) 623-1200
• Reservations: New York State DEC / ReserveAmerica

What is worth choosing when it comes to Hermit Island Campground is the unmatched sense of peace that only an island can provide. For the New York resident who spends their days in a world of constant noise and connectivity, choosing Hermit Island is an investment in mental clarity. It is worth choosing because it eliminates the typical "neighbor noise" found at mainland campgrounds. You won't hear a car engine or a neighbor's radio; you will only hear the wind through the trees and the rhythmic sound of the lake. It is the ideal choice for those who own a small boat or kayak and want to test their backcountry skills while remaining within a short paddle of the ranger station's safety and supplies.

Furthermore, Hermit Island is worth choosing for its value as a central hub. From your private dock, you can easily explore the many hiking trails on the mainland, visit the "Mother Bunch" island group, or spend the afternoon cliff jumping at nearby spots. When the day is done, you return to your own private kingdom to watch the stars. This combination of seclusion, convenience, and natural beauty makes Hermit Island a premier selection for any New Yorker looking for an authentic Adirondack memory. Whether it's your first time island camping or an annual tradition, the quiet magic of Hermit Island remains one of the best-kept secrets of Bolton Landing.

Would you like me to help you find the current boat permit requirements for Lake George or check the availability dates for the Glen Island group sites?