Turtle Island Campground

For outdoor enthusiasts in the New York region, Lake George—often called the "Queen of American Lakes"—offers an experience that is truly second to none: island camping. Turtle Island Campground, located within the Glen Island Group near Bolton Landing, stands out as one of the most coveted destinations for those looking to swap the noise of the city for the gentle lap of water against a rocky shoreline. As a specialized "boat-in" only facility, Turtle Island provides a level of privacy and immersion in nature that traditional drive-in campgrounds simply cannot match. It is a place where your neighbors are more likely to be loons and eagles than passing cars.

The appeal of Turtle Island Campground lies in its unique geography and the sense of adventure required to reach it. For local New Yorkers, a trip here is a rite of passage, requiring careful planning, a trusty vessel, and a spirit of self-sufficiency. The island is part of the state-managed Forest Preserve, ensuring that the wild, wooded character of the Adirondacks is preserved for every visitor. Whether you are a seasoned camper looking for a quiet "no wake zone" to moor your boat or a family seeking an unforgettable summer tradition, Turtle Island offers a diverse range of sites that cater to different needs while maintaining a consistent atmosphere of tranquil seclusion.

Turtle Island is situated in the central portion of Lake George, specifically within the Narrow Island and Glen Island groupings off the coast of Bolton Landing, NY. This location is prime real estate for campers because it sits amidst some of the lake’s most beautiful scenery, including views of the towering Tongue Mountain Range to the west. Accessibility is the defining characteristic of this campground: there are no roads, bridges, or footpaths leading to the island. To reach your site at 3 Turtle Isle, you must travel by watercraft.

Local users typically launch from public or private marinas in the town of Bolton Landing. From the mainland, it is a relatively short but scenic boat ride to the island docks. For those who do not own a powerboat, many local marinas offer rentals, and some campers even choose to make the trek via kayak or canoe, though a sturdy motorized vessel is recommended for transporting gear. On-site parking for your vehicle is generally managed at the mainland marina of your choice. Once you arrive at the island, you will find that the lack of vehicle traffic creates a safe, quiet environment that is particularly well-suited for families with children.

• Dedicated boat docking space assigned to each individual campsite.
• Primitive overnight camping facilities designed for tent and small trailer use.
• Site registration services through the Glen Island Group headquarters.
• Public restroom facilities (outhouses or pit privies) strategically located throughout the island.
• Standard DEC-issued campsite equipment including a heavy-duty picnic table and a stone fire ring or "funky" stove for cooking.
• Access to the Junior Naturalist Program, providing educational activities and patches for children aged 5 to 13.
• Pet-friendly policies on specific sites, allowing New Yorkers to bring their dogs along for the island adventure.

• Exclusive "Boat-In" access that guarantees a quiet, car-free camping environment.
• Strategic "No Wake Zones" around certain docks, protecting your boat from waves and ensuring peaceful mooring.
• A diverse array of site terrains, from sunny points with panoramic views of Dome Island to shady, elevated spots on forested hills.
• Exceptional water clarity, perfect for swimming directly from your campsite’s private shoreline.
• Prime fishing conditions for smallmouth bass and lake trout right off the island’s rocky ledges.
• Proximity to the Mother Bunch islands and jumping rocks, which are local favorites for afternoon excursions.
• Natural "bug-control" breezes on narrower parts of the island, enhancing comfort during the humid New York summer.

Because Turtle Island is a remote destination, having the correct contact information is essential for a successful trip. The campground is managed under the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) through the Glen Island office. For inquiries regarding site availability, local weather conditions, or specific park rules, you can use the following details:

Address: 3 Turtle Isle, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA

Phone: (518) 644-9696

Mobile Phone: +1 518-644-9696

Reservations for Turtle Island are highly competitive and are typically handled through the ReserveAmerica system. It is common for local campers to book their spots up to nine months in advance. If you find that the island is fully booked, the local office can often provide information on last-minute cancellations or suggest nearby alternatives within the Lake George Islands system.

What makes Turtle Island Campground worth choosing is the sheer exclusivity of the experience. In a world where it is increasingly difficult to find a quiet corner of the outdoors, Turtle Island offers a "best kept secret" vibe that resonates with New Yorkers who want to truly unplug. It is worth choosing for the boat owner who values the safety of their vessel; the "no wake zones" mentioned by many return visitors ensure that your boat stays secure at the dock while you sleep. The island’s layout allows for both social camping—with sites that pair well together for large groups—and extreme privacy for those who secure spots on the island’s points.

Furthermore, the campground is worth choosing for its family-friendly nature. The contained environment of an island means children have the freedom to explore the woods and shoreline in a way they rarely can on the mainland. Whether it is searching for frogs in the shallow inlets or earning a Junior Naturalist patch, the island acts as a natural playground. The facilities, while primitive, are well-maintained by the DEC rangers, and the "shared outhouse" system is frequently cited as being cleaner than typical wilderness latrines. Ultimately, choosing Turtle Island means committing to an adventure where the rewards are sunset views over the Adirondacks and the peace of mind that comes from being surrounded by nothing but water and trees. It is an "awesome" experience that keeps local families coming back year after year.