Island camping and lakeside camping are the big draws for campers at the "Queen of American Lakes".
In the southern Adirondacks in upstate New York, Lake George has been a popular vacation getaway since the 19th century. Surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains and Adirondack State Park, the 32-mile Long Lake is home to hundreds of islands while several historic towns dot its shores. Outdoor activities abound in the Lake George area, including swimming, fishing, boating, rafting, paddling, parasailing, hiking, biking, and adventure parks. Other nearby attractions include historic forts and sites, museums, amusement parks, and outlet shops. The area is home to plenty of New York state-run campgrounds,private campgrounds, and RV parks, making it easy to have a Lake George escape as a camping trip.
The lake is home to more than 300 islands, including 44 state-owned islands that offer some 380 campsites spread over three island groups: Glen Island Group in the Narrows east of Bolton Landing, Long Island Group at the southern end, and the Narrow Island Group at the northern end. Several islands, including Hermit Island and Refuge Island, feature only a single campsite, offering campers the ultimate private island camping experience. Some areas, such as Red Rock Bay, offer water sites for cruisers with sleeping quarters. All Lake George island campsites are accessible by boat only.
Several small towns, including Diamond Point, Bolton Landing, and Hague, can be found along the west shore and offer dining, shopping, and other amenities. Lakeside camping options are also available and include the state-owned Hearthstone Point Campground. Private campgrounds and RV resorts can be found in scenic settings that include mountains, woods, and rivers, and include options along the Schroon River and spots with tent sites, RV sites with full hookups, and camping cabins.
The Village of Lake George is located right at the southern shore of the lake and offers several popular beaches, boat rentals, and all the amenities you'd expect in a resort destination. Further south, find the cultural hub of Glen Falls, the town of Queensbury, and additional attractions that include Prospect Mountain, Six Flags Great Escape, and Coopers Cave. Camping options are plentiful and include the state-owned Lake George Battleground and several large private campgrounds and RV parks, some with creature comforts including wifi and swimming pools.
Camping options near the north shore are limited and include the state-owned Rogers Rock Campground and a few private campgrounds. The town of Ticonderoga can be found at the northern end, along with historic Fort Ticonderoga. The east shore of Lake George is rugged and undeveloped, with only a few small hamlets and two summer camps for kids. Natural attractions include Black Mountain, Buck Mountain, and Shelving Rock Falls.