Ranger Island Campground

Ranger Island Campground offers one of the most unique and sought-after outdoor experiences in the state of New York. Located on the pristine waters of Lake George, known affectionately as the "Queen of American Lakes," this campground is part of the Lake George Islands camping system managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Unlike traditional drive-in parks, Ranger Island provides a true escape from the modern world, as it is accessible only by boat. Nestled just south of Glen Island near the charming town of Bolton Landing, this small island features only two exclusive campsites, making it a premier destination for those seeking privacy, quiet, and a direct connection to the natural beauty of the Adirondacks.

The allure of Ranger Island lies in its seclusion and the immersive "island life" atmosphere it fosters. Campers here are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the crystal-clear waters of the Narrows. Because the island is limited to just two sites, it is an ideal location for two families to book together or for a single group looking to enjoy a nearly private island experience. The environment is one of absolute tranquility, where the day is measured by the movement of the sun across the lake and the occasional sound of a passing motorboat. For New York residents, this is a bucket-list destination that offers a rare chance to camp on state-owned land that remains rugged, wild, and largely unchanged by time.

Location and Accessibility are key components of the Ranger Island experience. The campground is officially addressed at 21 Ranger In The Narrows Is, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA. To reach the island, campers must launch their own vessel or rent a boat from one of the many private marinas located in Bolton Landing. The boat trip from the mainland to the island is a scenic journey through the Narrows, an area famous for its high concentration of islands and stunning vertical cliffs. While the island itself is remote, it remains close enough to the Glen Island Ranger Station for check-in procedures. It is important for visitors to note that since this is an island-based facility, all supplies, including food, water, and gear, must be transported by boat, requiring careful planning and preparation.

• Boat-In Only Access: A truly remote experience where the only way to reach your site is by watercraft, ensuring a peaceful stay far from car traffic.
• Dedicated Docking: Each site includes access to a shared dock, providing a secure place to tie up your vessel during your stay.
• Primitive Campsites: The island features two distinct sites designed to maintain the natural integrity of the landscape while providing a designated area for tents.
• Picnic Facilities: Every site is equipped with a sturdy picnic table, allowing for comfortable outdoor dining under the forest canopy.
• Fire Management: Dedicated stone fireplaces are provided at each site for cooking and evening campfires, following strict Adirondack safety guidelines.
• Waste Management Support: While campers are encouraged to "Carry In, Carry Out," the island system provides shared privy facilities to maintain sanitation.
• Check-In Services: Managed through the nearby Glen Island Ranger Station, providing campers with maps, safety information, and regional weather updates.

The Features and Highlights of Ranger Island Campground center on the incredible recreational opportunities provided by Lake George. The island’s terrain is a mix of shaded forest and sunny shoreline, offering the best of both worlds for outdoor lovers. Site 1 is known for being large, flat, and sunny, with easy access to the water for swimming, while Site 2 occupies the southern tip of the island and features a tent platform for a more elevated sleeping experience. The surrounding waters are a haven for anglers, swimmers, and paddlers, making every hour on the island an opportunity for adventure or deep relaxation.

• Exclusive Privacy: With only two sites on the entire island, guests enjoy a level of solitude that is nearly impossible to find at mainland campgrounds.
• World-Class Swimming: The rocky shores of Ranger Island lead into the clear, refreshing waters of Lake George, perfect for swimming right from your campsite.
• Angler's Paradise: The deep waters around the Narrows are famous for lake trout, landlocked salmon, and smallmouth bass fishing.
• Ship and Wildlife Watching: The island provides a front-row seat to the diverse birdlife of the Adirondacks and the various historic vessels that navigate the lake.
• Campsite Platforms: Site 2 includes a wooden tent platform, which helps keep gear dry and level during your stay.
• Sunset and Sunrise Views: The island’s orientation allows for spectacular displays of color over the water at both the beginning and end of the day.
• Kid-Friendly Exploration: The island is small enough for children to explore safely, with plenty of interesting rocks, trees, and shoreline features to discover.

For those ready to plan their island adventure, the Contact Information for the regional office is the best starting point. You can reach the park representatives at (518) 623-1200, or via their mobile line at +1 518-623-1200. The physical boat-access address is 21 Ranger In The Narrows Is, Bolton Landing, NY 12814. Reservations are mandatory and are handled through the ReserveAmerica system, often booking out many months in advance due to the island's high popularity and limited capacity.

What is worth choosing at Ranger Island Campground is the specific site that matches your camping style. If you prefer a more traditional ground-tent setup with plenty of space to spread out in the sun, Site 1 is the superior choice. However, if you value a level, dry sleeping surface and want to be on the very southern tip of the island for maximum breeze and views, Site 2 is worth the early reservation. Additionally, choosing to bring a small motorboat or a stable canoe is essential for navigating to nearby islands or returning to the mainland for supplies. For the best experience, time your visit for mid-week in the late summer, when the lake water is at its warmest and the boat traffic in the Narrows is at its lightest.

Ranger Island Campground represents the pinnacle of the Lake George experience—a place where the water meets the sky and the worries of the world feel miles away. By choosing this secluded island, you are signing up for a true Adirondack tradition that emphasizes self-reliance, respect for nature, and the simple joy of living on the water. Whether you are roasting marshmallows over a stone fireplace or diving into the "Queen of American Lakes" at dawn, a stay on Ranger Island is an investment in memories that will last a lifetime.