Indian Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #5

Indian Lake Islands Campground, particularly Campsite #5, offers one of the most unique and sought-after wilderness experiences in the New York State park system. Located on the southern shore of the expansive 4,365-acre Indian Lake in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, this campground is a favorite for those looking to escape the conventional drive-in camping routine. The defining characteristic of this destination is its exclusivity: every single one of the 55 campsites is accessible only by boat. For local New Yorkers seeking a true "unplugged" adventure, Campsite #5 provides a secluded sanctuary surrounded by mature forests and the pristine waters of a 12-mile-long reservoir.

Campsite #5 is situated on the southern end of the lake, offering campers a front-row seat to the rugged beauty of the Adirondack Forest Preserve. The experience of island or shoreline camping here combines the thrill of backcountry adventure with the basic comforts provided by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Because the site is boat-access only, it naturally limits the noise and foot traffic found at typical state parks, ensuring that the primary sounds you hear are the call of the loons and the gentle lapping of the waves. It is an ideal spot for families who want to introduce their children to the wonders of nature in a safe but exciting environment.

Location and accessibility are the most critical factors for visitors to consider when planning a trip to Indian Lake Islands. The campground registration booth and main boat launch are located off NY-30, approximately 12 miles south of the Village of Indian Lake and 12 miles north of Speculator. To reach Campsite #5, campers must launch their vessel—be it a motorboat, canoe, or kayak—from the launch adjacent to the Lewey Lake Public Campground. The journey to the site typically takes between 15 to 25 minutes depending on the watercraft used and the lake conditions. While the remote nature of the site means you must transport all your gear by water, the reward is a level of privacy that is rarely achieved in other public camping areas across the state.

• Accessible exclusively by watercraft from the boat launch on Route 30.
• Registration required at the booth adjacent to Lewey Lake Public Campground.
• Proximity to the Village of Indian Lake (12 miles north) for groceries, ice, and emergency supplies.
• Strategic location near iconic Adirondack hiking trails, including Snowy Mountain and Watch Point.
• On-site parking is available at the main launch area for vehicles and trailers while you are out on the islands.

The services offered at Indian Lake Islands Campground are tailored for self-sufficient wilderness enthusiasts. While the sites are primitive, they are well-maintained by the DEC staff. Campsite #5, like its neighbors, is equipped with the core essentials for a traditional Adirondack camp. For those who do not own their own vessel, local vendors in the Indian Lake region offer rentals to ensure everyone has the opportunity to experience island life. Firewood and ice are often available for purchase at the registration booth to help minimize the spread of invasive species and keep your supplies fresh.

• Large, well-forested campsites designed to accommodate up to six people.
• Heavy-duty fire rings with adjustable grills for traditional campfire cooking.
• Sturdy, oversized picnic tables provided at each individual site.
• Pit toilets (vault toilets) located a short walk from the main camping area for sanitation.
• Canoe and kayak rentals available through nearby local partners for those without personal watercraft.
• Firewood and ice sales at the main entrance to ensure campers are well-stocked before heading to the islands.
• Access to the Junior Naturalist Program, providing educational games and activities for children aged 5 to 13.

The features and highlights of a stay at Campsite #5 center on the incredible recreational opportunities provided by the lake and the surrounding wild forest. Indian Lake is famous for its diverse fishery and its dramatic mountain views. From your base at site #5, you have immediate access to some of the best paddling routes in the region, with numerous hidden bays and rocky outcrops waiting to be explored. The absence of road noise creates a peaceful atmosphere that makes this one of the premier locations for stargazing and wildlife observation in New York.

• World-class fishing for Lake Trout, Smallmouth Bass, and Northern Pike directly from the campsite shoreline.
• Exceptional privacy provided by the dense forest buffer between sites.
• Direct access to the water for swimming, paddling, and water skiing.
• Breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including nearby Snowy Mountain.
• Close proximity to water-accessible hiking trails like the Baldface Mountain Trail (1.1 miles).
• A kid-friendly environment where children can safely explore the shoreline and woods of their "own" island or shore space.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow dogs to join the family adventure (proof of rabies vaccination required).

For those looking to book a stay at Indian Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #5, it is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance through the official New York State reservation system. This campground is exceptionally popular during the summer months and often sells out for weekends months ahead of time.

• Address: State Route 30, Indian Lake, NY 12842, USA
• Main Office Phone: (518) 648-5300
• Regional Office Phone: (518) 648-5616
• Reservations: 1-800-456-CAMP (or online via ReserveAmerica)

What is worth choosing when it comes to Indian Lake Islands? For most New Yorkers, it is worth choosing for the sheer sense of adventure and the rare opportunity to camp in a location that feels truly remote without being inaccessible. Campsite #5 is particularly worth choosing for the boater who values a spacious, private site with excellent shoreline access for fishing. It offers a level of "street cred" for campers who want to prove they can do more than just park an RV; it requires effort to get there, but that effort is repaid tenfold in sunsets, silence, and scenery.

Ultimately, a trip to Indian Lake Islands is about creating lasting memories. Whether you are teaching your children how to build a safe campfire, catching your first Adirondack lake trout, or simply sitting by the water watching the stars, the experience at site #5 is authentic and deeply rewarding. If you are seeking a vacation that trades screen time for shoreline, then Indian Lake Islands Campground is the perfect choice for your next New York escape.

Would you like me to help you find a detailed map of the Indian Lake sites or a list of the specific boat rental shops located in the village of Indian Lake?