Commission Island

For New Yorkers who crave an unparalleled connection with nature and a truly distinctive outdoor experience, the island campsites on Lake George represent the pinnacle of Adirondack adventure. Commission Island, part of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's (NYSDEC) Lake George Islands Campgrounds, offers an extraordinary opportunity to camp on your own private slice of this magnificent "Queen of American Lakes." This isn't your typical roadside campground; it's a boat-access-only haven that promises solitude, stunning panoramic views, and an intimate encounter with the pristine waters and forested shores of Lake George.

Commission Island, like many of the smaller islands in the Lake George group, provides a rustic yet incredibly rewarding camping experience. It’s ideal for those who are prepared for off-the-grid living and are eager to embrace the tranquility that only an island retreat can offer. This comprehensive guide will explore the unique aspects of Commission Island, from its exclusive location and essential services to the unforgettable features that make it a highly sought-after destination for local New Yorkers seeking a truly immersive and peaceful escape into the heart of the Adirondacks.

Commission Island is situated on Lake George, in the vicinity of Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA. It falls within the Glen Island Group of the Lake George Islands Campgrounds, managed by the NYSDEC. As an island campsite, its primary characteristic is that it is accessible exclusively by boat. This adds an element of adventure and helps preserve the pristine nature of these sites.

For New Yorkers, reaching the Lake George area is straightforward via major highways. From Albany, the drive to a boat launch or marina in Bolton Landing or Lake George Village is typically 1 to 1.5 hours. From larger metropolitan areas like New York City, the journey is longer, generally between 3.5 to 4.5 hours, but the well-maintained highway system (primarily I-87, the Adirondack Northway) makes it a manageable trip for a longer vacation. Even from Central and Western New York (e.g., Syracuse or Rochester), a drive of 3 to 4 hours will bring you to the heart of the Lake George region.

Once in the area, campers will need to launch their own boat from a public or private marina, or rent one locally. Marinas in Bolton Landing, such as those that service the Glen Island Group, will be your gateway to Commission Island. This boat-in access is a defining feature that contributes to the island's secluded feel, offering a peaceful respite from crowded mainland areas. The island's location within the Glen Island group means it is well-positioned for exploring the central part of Lake George, with its numerous bays, coves, and other islands, as well as mainland attractions in Bolton Landing and Lake George Village.

As a designated island campsite within a state campground system, Commission Island offers fundamental amenities designed to facilitate a rustic yet enjoyable camping experience.

• Boat Access Only: This is a defining service, requiring campers to bring their own boat or rent one from a local marina to access the island.
• Private Dock: Each island campsite, including Commission Island, is equipped with a private dock capable of mooring at least one boat. This is crucial for convenient access and secure overnight boat parking.
• Tent Site: A designated area, often a level platform or cleared ground, is provided for pitching tents.
• Metal Fireplace/Fire Ring: A durable metal fireplace or fire ring is available for campfires, perfect for cooking, warmth, and classic campfire ambiance. Only dead and downed wood may be used for fuel, and fires must be built within the provided rings.
• Picnic Table: A sturdy picnic table is supplied at each site, offering a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and outdoor activities.
• Primitive Toilet Facility (Pit Privy): In keeping with the rustic nature of island camping, a pit privy (outhouse) is provided for restroom needs.
• Waste Management: A refuse surcharge is typically included in the camping fee to cover waste disposal, reinforcing the "Leave No Trace" principle. Campers are expected to properly dispose of their waste.
• No Electric Hookups: It's important to note that island campsites generally do not have electric hookups, providing an "off-the-grid" experience.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is generally not available directly at these isolated sites. Campers must bring their own drinking water or make arrangements to obtain it from mainland facilities.

Commission Island stands out for its distinctive features and the unique experience it offers on Lake George.

• Exclusive Island Privacy: The most significant highlight is the unparalleled privacy of having an entire island (or at least a very secluded section of an island) to yourself. This eliminates the noise and crowding often associated with mainland campgrounds.
• Stunning Adirondack Scenery: Campers are surrounded by the pristine beauty of Lake George and the majestic Adirondack Mountains, offering incredible sunrises, sunsets, and star-gazing opportunities.
• Ideal for Boating and Water Sports: With a private dock and direct access to Lake George, the island is a perfect base for boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and swimming in the clear waters.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Lake George is renowned for its diverse fishery, including landlocked salmon, lake trout, bass, and pike, providing ample opportunities for anglers right from the island's shores or nearby waters.
• Proximity to Tongue Mountain Range: For hikers, the nearby Tongue Mountain Range offers challenging trails with spectacular elevated views of the lake, accessible by boat.
• Rustic and Authentic Camping: The experience is truly authentic, allowing campers to disconnect from modern distractions and reconnect with nature in a profound way.
• "Good Scene" Vibe: As noted by a customer review, the overall atmosphere and surroundings create a "good scene," emphasizing the positive and enjoyable experience of island life.

As part of the NYSDEC campground system, specific "promotions or special offers" for Commission Island are not typically available in the way a private campground might offer them. The pricing for Lake George island campsites is standardized by the DEC.

However, the "offer" is primarily the unique experience itself at a set rate.

• Standard Nightly Rate: The nightly fee for Lake George island campsites is typically around $28, with an additional $3/night refuse surcharge to cover waste management. Out-of-state residents may incur a higher fee.
• Early Reservations: The best "promotion" is the opportunity to secure a highly sought-after site by booking far in advance. Reservations for Lake George island campsites can be made up to nine months ahead of your desired arrival date through the ReserveAmerica platform. These sites are extremely popular, especially during peak summer months (July and August), and often book up on the first day they become available.
• Seasonal Operation: The Lake George Islands Campgrounds generally operate from mid-May through Columbus Day (mid-October), allowing for camping throughout the prime warm-weather and fall foliage seasons.

It is crucial to visit the official ReserveAmerica website or contact the NYSDEC directly for the most current pricing, reservation availability, and specific rules or regulations regarding island camping on Lake George.

To inquire about Commission Island or to make a reservation, please use the following contact information:

Address: Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA (Note: As an island, direct street address is for nearest mainland access point or administrative office).

Regional Office Phone: (518) 623-1200 (This number is for the general Lake George Islands Campgrounds office, which can provide overall information).

Mobile Phone: +1 518-623-1200

For direct campsite reservations, the primary method is through the ReserveAmerica website or their dedicated call center: 1-800-456-2267. When booking, you would typically search for "Lake George Islands Campgrounds" and then specify the "Glen Island Group" to find Commission Island.

Commission Island is an exceptional choice for New York locals who are truly passionate about outdoor adventure and seeking an exclusive, peaceful retreat. For residents across our state, this campsite offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from the demands of daily life and immerse themselves in the untouched beauty of Lake George. The unique boat-access-only nature of the island ensures a level of privacy and tranquility that is unmatched by most mainland campgrounds, making it perfect for those who truly value solitude and an undisturbed natural environment.

Whether you're an avid boater, a keen fisherman, or simply someone yearning to relax by a campfire under a blanket of stars with the gentle lapping of waves as your soundtrack, Commission Island delivers. It’s an ideal setting for creating unique family memories, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure. This distinctive camping experience, right here in our own magnificent Adirondack Park, allows New Yorkers to fully embrace the region's natural splendor, offering a refreshing and authentic outdoor escape that will leave you feeling recharged and reconnected with the wild heart of our state.

Commission Island

Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA