Long Island Campsite 54

For New Yorkers seeking a truly immersive escape from the urban landscape, Long Island Campsite 54 offers an experience that is increasingly rare in the modern world. Situated in the southern basin of Lake George—often referred to as the "Queen of American Lakes"—this campsite is part of a 100-acre island managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Unlike traditional campgrounds where you can simply pull up in a car, Long Island is accessible exclusively by boat. This unique requirement immediately sets a tone of adventure and tranquility, making it a premier choice for local outdoor enthusiasts who want to leave the sound of traffic far behind and replace it with the gentle lapping of mountain water against the shore.

Long Island is the largest of the island camping groups on Lake George, boasting approximately 90 individual sites. Campsite 54 is nestled within this historic network, providing a secluded environment that feels worlds away from the busy mainland resorts. The island itself is rich in history, having been developed for public recreation in the mid-20th century with the help of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Today, it remains a pristine example of the Adirondack Forest Preserve, offering a rugged yet managed wilderness experience. For local residents from Albany to New York City, a trip to Long Island Campsite 54 is a rite of passage, representing the pinnacle of the state's storied camping tradition.

Location and accessibility are the most distinctive features of this destination. Long Island is located in the town of Lake George, NY 12845, within Warren County. To reach Campsite 54, visitors typically take the Adirondack Northway (I-87) to exits 20 through 22. From there, you must travel to a private or public marina to launch your vessel. Because there are no roads leading to the island, your boat is your lifeline, used for transporting all gear, food, and water. For those who do not own a boat, local water taxi services are a popular and reliable alternative, ensuring that the island experience is accessible to everyone who is willing to plan ahead.

Accessibility on the island itself is focused on preserving the natural terrain. While the headquarters at nearby Glen Island offers more modernized features, Long Island remains more rustic. Each site, including number 54, is equipped with its own private dock, ensuring that your watercraft is safely moored just steps from your tent. The layout of the island allows for a sense of privacy, with most sites well-forested and shielded from neighbors by dense Adirondack pines and hardwoods. This makes it an ideal spot for those who value solitude and a direct connection to the shoreline.

• Dedicated private dock for one boat (maximum lengths vary by site).
• Individual fireplace and fire ring for cooking and evening campfires.
• Sturdy picnic table provided at the site for outdoor dining.
• Access to shared pit privy or toilet facilities nearby.
• On-site ranger station for registration and safety assistance (Headquarters located on the island).
• Recycling and refuse management stations (note: a small per-night surcharge applies for these services).
• On-site parking available at mainland marinas for vehicles and trailers.
• Access to over 50 miles of regional hiking trails via boat-to-trailhead access.

The highlights of camping at Long Island Campsite 54 are centered on the unparalleled views and the quality of the water. Lake George is famous for its exceptional clarity, which allows light to penetrate deep into the water, creating a stunning turquoise hue on sunny days. This makes the area around the island a paradise for swimmers and snorkelers. For those who enjoy fishing, the lake offers a "two-story" fishery, where you can find landlocked salmon and lake trout in the deeper sections, while bass and pike frequent the rocky shallows near the island docks.

Another major highlight is the peace and quiet enforced by strict regulations. The DEC maintains quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, ensuring that the natural sounds of the night—the loons, the owls, and the wind—are the only things you hear. Additionally, because dogs are prohibited on all Lake George islands, the ecosystem remains protected, and the campsites stay exceptionally clean. This makes the island particularly attractive to families with young children who can explore the shoreline without the concerns often associated with busier, pet-friendly mainland parks.

• Stunning waterfront location with direct access to Lake George's southern basin.
• Unobstructed views of the surrounding Adirondack Mountains.
• Prime opportunities for bird watching, including frequent sightings of bald eagles.
• Proximity to world-class boating, sailing, and jet-skiing.
• Dark-sky conditions perfect for stargazing away from light pollution.
• Access to the Junior Naturalist Program for children aged 5-13.
• Proximity to mainland attractions like Million Dollar Beach and Fort William Henry.
• The unique "primitive" feel of island life with the security of a state-managed facility.

Reservations for Long Island Campsite 54 must be made through the ReserveAmerica system, and it is highly recommended to book well in advance, as these sites are among the most sought-after in the New York state park system. For specific questions about lake conditions or site-specific dock depths, you can reach out to the regional office or the island's dedicated ranger station during the operating season, which typically runs from mid-May through Labor Day.

Address: Long Island, Lake George, NY 12845, USA

Regional Office Phone: (518) 623-1200

Long Island Ranger Station: (518) 656-9426

Choosing Long Island Campsite 54 is worth it for the New Yorker who wants to truly "unplug." In a world dominated by screens and constant connectivity, the island provides a physical barrier—the water—between you and the demands of daily life. The effort required to get to the site is rewarded with a level of tranquility that mainland campgrounds simply cannot match. You are not just renting a patch of dirt; you are securing a private piece of one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The satisfaction of navigating your boat to your own private dock and setting up camp under a canopy of ancient trees is a feeling that stays with you long after the trip is over.

Furthermore, the environmental stewardship practiced by the DEC ensures that your stay is part of a sustainable model of tourism. By adhering to the "carry-in, carry-out" philosophy and utilizing the provided refuse services, you are helping to preserve Lake George for future generations of New Yorkers. Whether you are an avid fisherman, a passionate paddler, or a family looking to create lifelong memories around a campfire, Long Island Campsite 54 offers an authentic, high-quality, and deeply restorative Adirondack experience. It is a testament to the beauty of our state and the importance of preserving these wild, watery places. Would you like me to help you find a list of boat rental marinas near Lake George Village to assist with your trip planning?