Pine Island Campsite #1

For outdoor enthusiasts across the New York region, the Adirondack Mountains represent a pinnacle of natural beauty and recreational opportunity. Among the most coveted experiences in this area is island camping on Lake George. Pine Island Campsite #1, located in the Glen Island Group near Bolton Landing, offers a distinct "private island" feel that attracts those looking for a true escape from the bustling mainland. Unlike traditional drive-in campgrounds, this site places you directly in the heart of the "Queen of American Lakes," surrounded by crystal-clear waters and the rugged silhouette of the surrounding peaks.

Managed as part of the Lake George Islands camping system, Pine Island Campsite #1 is part of a tradition that dates back decades, providing New Yorkers with a way to immerse themselves in the wild forest environment. While it offers a sense of solitude, it is a managed site that requires careful planning and a spirit of adventure. Residents from Upstate to the City often seek out these island spots for their unparalleled views and the unique lifestyle that comes with being boat-bound for the duration of a stay. It is an ideal destination for those who appreciate the simplicity of primitive camping combined with the majestic atmosphere of one of New York's most famous bodies of water.

Pine Island Campsite #1 is situated in the Glen Island Group of the Lake George Islands, specifically positioned in the "Narrows" east of Bolton Landing, NY. This location is famous for its narrow channels and dense clusters of islands, providing some of the most scenic paddling and boating routes in the entire state. For New York residents planning their trip, the primary gateway is the town of Bolton Landing, where several marinas and public launches are available to facilitate the journey to the site.

Accessibility is a defining feature of this campground: it is accessible by boat only. There are no roads leading to the island, making it a "boat-in" destination that requires campers to either own a vessel or arrange for a rental or water taxi from the mainland. Once on the water, navigators must be mindful of Lake George's varying depths and potential for sudden weather changes. On-site parking for vehicles is typically handled at the various marinas or public lots in Bolton Landing before departing for the island. The remote nature of the site ensures that the noise of highway traffic is replaced by the gentle sounds of the lake, offering a level of tranquility that is rare in more accessible local parks.

• Designated primitive camping area catering to single groups of up to six people.
• Site management through the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 5.
• Permit-based reservation system to ensure site exclusivity during your stay.
• Basic infrastructure including a stone fire ring for managed campfires.
• Provision of a picnic table for outdoor dining and food preparation.
• On-site pit privy (outhouse) facilities for essential sanitation.
• Pet-friendly policies allowing dogs to join their owners on the island.
• Access to the Lake George Junior Naturalist Program for families with children.

• Exclusive island setting providing a 360-degree view of the Lake George "Narrows."
• Direct waterfront access for swimming, fishing, and docking small watercraft.
• Shaded terrain with mature trees offering relief from the summer sun.
• Proximity to world-class hiking trails on the nearby Tongue Mountain Range.
• Clear, unpolluted night skies perfect for stargazing away from urban light pollution.
• Integration with the Glen Island Group, allowing for easy exploration of neighboring islands by kayak or canoe.
• A family-friendly atmosphere that encourages children to engage with the natural environment.
• Close proximity to the Glen Island Ranger Station for emergency assistance or information.

For residents looking to coordinate their visit or check on current site conditions, it is important to contact the governing body for the Lake George Wild Forest. While the site itself is remote, the administrative support is handled through the regional DEC office. You can reach them at the following details:

Address: Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA

Phone: (518) 623-1200

Mobile Phone: +1 518-623-1200

Please note that reservations are typically handled through the centralized Recreation.gov system, but the local Warrensburg office (phone number above) is the best resource for specific questions regarding seasonal closures, water quality alerts, or site-specific rules. It is highly recommended to call during business hours (Monday through Friday) to speak with a forest ranger or administrative staff member before making the trek to Bolton Landing.

Pine Island Campsite #1 is worth choosing for the New Yorker who desires an authentic "back-to-basics" experience without the crowds of a commercial RV park. While recent reviews have noted that facilities are primitive and require campers to be self-sufficient, this is precisely the draw for many. It is a place where you can disconnect from digital distractions—as there is no Wi-Fi—and reconnect with the rhythms of nature. The site is a favorite for those who value privacy, as having an entire island (or a significant portion of one) to yourself is a luxury that few other campgrounds can offer.

Additionally, this site is worth choosing because of its strategic location within the Lake George Islands. It serves as a perfect base camp for those who enjoy active recreation. During the day, you can paddle to hidden coves or hike the rugged Adirondack trails, and in the evening, you can return to your own private slice of the lake. For families, it offers a safe and contained environment for children to learn about the outdoors, provided that parents are prepared for the rugged, unpolished nature of a wild forest site. If you are looking for a memory-making trip that captures the true spirit of New York's wilderness, Pine Island Campsite #1 is a destination that delivers an unforgettable Adirondack experience.