Brush Island Campground

For New Yorkers who dream of a truly exclusive and immersive wilderness experience, Brush Island Campground on Lake George offers an unparalleled opportunity. Unlike typical drive-in campgrounds, Brush Island provides a rare single-campsite island retreat, ensuring ultimate privacy and an intimate connection with nature. Situated on the pristine waters of Lake George near Bolton Landing, this unique destination is perfect for those seeking tranquility, stunning lake views, and a genuine escape from the everyday. Visitors consistently praise the beauty of the site, the well-maintained facilities, and the feeling of having their own private slice of the Adirondacks. For locals looking for an unforgettable and secluded outdoor adventure, Brush Island Campground is a true gem.

Brush Island Campground is uniquely located on Lake George, approximately 32 Brush Nr Uncas Is, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA. This address points to its general vicinity within the Glen Island Group of the Lake George Islands Campgrounds. The defining characteristic of Brush Island, and indeed all campsites within the Lake George Islands system, is that it is exclusively boat-access-only. This means campers must have their own boat or arrange for a water taxi or rental to reach their site. Registration and access points are typically handled through the Glen Island Ranger Station or other designated check-in locations around Lake George. This approach, while requiring a bit more planning, ensures a heightened sense of seclusion and wilderness. The location in Bolton Landing places it in the heart of the southern basin of Lake George, known for its deep, clear waters and surrounding mountain scenery. It's easily accessible from major New York thoroughfares, making it a manageable journey for residents from across the state looking to experience the iconic Adirondack Park and its "Queen of American Lakes."

Brush Island Campground, as part of the Lake George Islands Campgrounds managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), provides essential services tailored to its unique island camping environment.

• Single Campsite Island: The primary service is providing a highly private, exclusive single campsite on its own island. This offers an unparalleled sense of seclusion.
• Boat-Access Only: All access to Brush Island is by boat, ensuring a unique and more remote camping experience. Each island site, including Brush Island, typically comes with a dock for one boat, making arrival and departure convenient.
• Basic Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with fundamental amenities for traditional camping, including a picnic table and a fireplace/fire pit for cooking and warmth.
• Privy (Outhouse): A private toilet facility (outhouse/privy) is available on the island, and reviewers note these are generally well-maintained.
• Ample Tent Space: While there is no tent platform, there are "plenty of good spots for multiple tents," allowing flexibility in setting up camp.
• Shore Dock: The site includes a "shore dock that's well protected," providing secure mooring for your boat.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is typically available for purchase at mainland ranger stations to discourage the transport of invasive species.
• Garbage Collection: Designated garbage collection centers are available on larger islands within the Lake George Islands system (e.g., Uncas Island, Narrow Island, Long Island), which can be accessed by boat during your stay for trash disposal. Campers are encouraged to follow "Leave No Trace" principles.

The features and highlights of Brush Island Campground are deeply tied to its natural setting and the unique opportunities presented by island camping on Lake George.

• Ultimate Privacy: As a single-campsite island, Brush Island offers an exceptional level of privacy, allowing campers to truly disconnect and enjoy the solitude of nature.
• Stunning Lake George Views: Guests are treated to picturesque views of Lake George and the surrounding Adirondack mountains, providing a beautiful backdrop for their stay.
• Excellent Boating and Paddling: Lake George, being 32 miles long, offers superb opportunities for all types of watercraft, from power boats to canoes and kayaks. The direct water access from the island dock allows for easy exploration.
• Fishing Haven: The clear waters of Lake George are renowned for fishing, with species like lake trout, smallmouth bass, and northern pike. Anglers will find ample opportunities right from their island base.
• Natural Forested Setting: The island is "well forested" with "heavy tree coverage," providing natural shade and a true wilderness feel.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: With strictly enforced quiet hours (typically 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) and the inherent seclusion of an island site, the campground offers a remarkably quiet and peaceful environment, disturbed only by the sounds of nature.
• Proximity to Lake George Attractions: While remote, the island is within boating distance of mainland attractions around Lake George, including marinas for supplies, restaurants with boat docking, and nearby hiking trails.
• Access to Hiking: The Lake George region offers numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, many accessible from mainland launch points or specific island access points, allowing campers to combine water activities with land exploration.

As part of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) campground system, Brush Island Campground operates under state-level pricing and reservation policies rather than offering frequent private campground-style promotions. However, there are inherent advantages and considerations for New York locals:

• Affordable State Rates: DEC campgrounds are generally known for their budget-friendly daily camping fees, making a stay at Brush Island a cost-effective way to enjoy the Adirondacks. The fee for Lake George Island camping is typically around $28 per night, plus a $3/night refuse surcharge.
• Advance Reservations Recommended: While not a promotion, the ability to reserve sites up to 9 months in advance via ReserveAmerica.com is crucial for popular sites like Brush Island, which is often booked quickly. New Yorkers planning ahead can secure their desired dates.
• 14-Night Cumulative Limit: From July 1 through Labor Day, a 14-cumulative night limit typically applies across all DEC campgrounds, ensuring more New Yorkers have the opportunity to experience these sought-after locations.
• Day Use Permits: Day-use permits for island sites can also be reserved, offering a way for locals to enjoy the unique island experience for a shorter period (e.g., $12 per day for day use).
• New York State Park Passes: Annual New York State Park Passes can be used for making reservations and may offer benefits across the wider New York State Parks system.

For the most current pricing, specific reservation windows, and any applicable state-level programs, New York residents should always consult the official New York State Parks website, the DEC website, or use the ReserveAmerica platform directly.

To plan your exclusive island camping adventure at Brush Island Campground on Lake George, or for any questions regarding reservations, boat access, or site details, please use the contact information below. Remember that direct contact for this specific island might route through the larger Glen Island Group office.

• Address: 32 Brush Nr Uncas Is, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA (Remember: Boat access required)
• Regional Office Phone: (518) 623-1200 (This is the regional DEC office phone number for the Lake George area, which can provide general information or direct you to the appropriate ranger station.)
• Glen Island Ranger Station Phone: (518) 644-9696 (This number is associated with the Glen Island Group, which includes Brush Island, and is often the most direct contact for island-specific inquiries during operating season.)
• Reservations (via ReserveAmerica): 1-800-456-CAMP (or 1-800-456-2267)

For New York locals seeking the ultimate private and serene outdoor escape, Brush Island Campground on Lake George is an unparalleled choice. Its distinction as a single-campsite island, accessible only by boat, guarantees a level of privacy and immersion in nature that is truly rare. This unique feature, combined with the stunning beauty of Lake George and the surrounding Adirondacks, makes it an ideal destination for those who value tranquility, outdoor adventure, and a chance to truly disconnect. While amenities are rustic, focusing on the essentials like fire pits and private outhouses, this contributes to its authentic wilderness appeal. Whether you're an avid boater, a passionate angler, or simply someone who craves the peace of having an entire island to yourself, Brush Island offers an unforgettable experience. It's a place where New Yorkers can create cherished memories, enjoy breathtaking views, and fully embrace the natural splendor of our state in a way few other campgrounds can offer.

Brush Island Campground

32 Brush Nr Uncas Is, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA