Indian Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #39

For those seeking a true escape into the "forever wild" spirit of the Adirondack Mountains, Indian Lake Islands Campground offers an experience unlike any other in New York State. Located in the rugged beauty of Hamilton County, this facility specializes in boat-access-only camping, allowing visitors to trade the noise of highway traffic for the gentle lap of water against a rocky shoreline. Within this vast network of island and shoreline sites, Campsite #39 has earned a reputation among veteran campers as a premier destination, frequently cited for its exceptional views and relative seclusion.

Choosing a site at Indian Lake Islands means embracing a primitive and adventurous lifestyle. As a resident of the New York region, you understand the value of finding a quiet corner of the state where the night sky is truly dark and the morning air is crisp. Campsite #39 specifically offers a unique vantage point on the lake, positioned on a peninsula that provides nearly 270 degrees of water views. This site is particularly stunning during the autumn months when the surrounding mountains erupt in vibrant reds and golds, making it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers who want to witness the peak of New York’s seasonal transitions.

Location and Accessibility are unique factors for this campground. Unlike traditional drive-in parks, Indian Lake Islands Campground is located on the southern shore of the 4,365-acre Indian Lake, and every single one of its 55 sites is accessible only by boat. To reach Campsite #39, campers typically launch from the DEC boat ramp located on Route 30, approximately 12 miles north of the Village of Speculator. The journey to the site is part of the adventure; from the ranger station at the boat launch, it is approximately a 2.5-mile paddle or motorboat trip to Site #39, a journey that takes roughly 45 to 60 minutes by canoe depending on wind conditions.

For those who do not own a personal watercraft, accessibility is made possible through local partnerships. The Indian Lake Marina, located in nearby Sabael, offers rentals for pontoon boats, canoes, and kayaks, ensuring that even city-dwellers from the NYC or Albany areas can enjoy this island retreat. The main boat launch area provides on-site parking for vehicles and trailers, allowing you to leave your land-based transport behind as you transition to lake life. It is important to note that because the sites are boat-in only, campers must be prepared to carry all their gear over water, reinforcing the sense of primitive wilderness that makes this location so special.

• Dedicated boat-in only campsites featuring a high degree of privacy and natural forest cover.
• On-site firewood and ice sales available at the registration booth near the boat launch.
• Canoe and kayak rentals are often available locally to facilitate access to the islands.
• Picnic areas at the campsite equipped with heavy-duty wooden tables and stone fire rings.
• Pit toilets located within a short walking distance of most island sites for basic sanitation.
• Potable water available at the main registration and boat launch area to fill jugs before heading to the site.
• Emergency pay telephone located at the ranger station for safety and communication.
• Junior Naturalist Program (seasonal) for children aged 5 to 13 to learn about Adirondack ecology.

The Features and Highlights of Campsite #39 and the surrounding Indian Lake area are centered on the pristine Adirondack environment. The lake itself is a haven for water sports, including powerboating, sailing, and jet-skiing, though many prefer the quiet hum of a trolling motor or the silence of a paddle. Fishing is a major draw, with the deep, cool waters of Indian Lake hosting healthy populations of lake trout, landlocked salmon, and northern pike. For those who enjoy terrestrial adventures, the campground is a gateway to some of the most famous hikes in the park, including the nearby Snowy Mountain and Baldface Mountain trails.

• Unobstructed views of the Adirondack high peaks and the vast expanse of Indian Lake.
• A large, well-forested site that provides natural shade and privacy from neighboring campers.
• Excellent shoreline access for swimming or launching a kayak directly from your "front yard."
• Proximity to Baldface Mountain, featuring a water-access trailhead for a rewarding 1.1-mile hike.
• A family-friendly environment that is considered "good for kids" who enjoy active, outdoor play.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow dogs to join the family on the island, provided they are leashed.
• Remarkable stargazing opportunities due to the lack of light pollution in Hamilton County.
• Robust stone fireplaces designed for cooking over an open flame and evening campfires.

Because Indian Lake Islands is one of the most popular state-run campgrounds in New York, reservations for specific sites like #39 often fill up six months in advance. Prospective campers are encouraged to check availability early through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) or via the ReserveAmerica platform. The campground generally operates from mid-May through Columbus Day, with peak colors typically arriving in late September or early October.

Address: Hamilton County, Indian Lake, NY 12842, USA (Registration at the boat launch on NY-30, Sabael, NY)

Phone: (518) 648-5300 (Campground Office) or (800) 456-CAMP for reservations.

What is worth choosing at Indian Lake Islands is the chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the rhythms of nature. Site #39 stands out because it offers the quintessential "island life" experience while remaining part of a professionally managed state park system. You get the thrill of backcountry camping—the seclusion, the silence, and the starry nights—with the peace of mind that comes from having a designated site, a cleared tent platform, and a helpful ranger staff nearby. For a New Yorker, there is no better way to spend a summer weekend than by paddling out to your own private slice of the Adirondacks, where the only schedule you have to follow is the rising and setting of the sun.

The reliability of the staff and the consistent maintenance of the sites ensure that your trip remains focused on relaxation rather than logistics. Whether you are teaching your children how to fish for the first time or simply seeking a quiet place to watch the fall foliage reflect off the water, Site #39 provides the perfect stage. It is a location that rewards the effort it takes to get there, making every mile paddled worth the stunning views and the deep sense of peace found on the shores of Indian Lake.