East Dollar Island Campground #1 (dock)

For New Yorkers seeking a truly unique and immersive camping adventure, where the serene beauty of the Adirondacks meets the sparkling waters of Lake George, East Dollar Island Campground offers an unforgettable experience. As part of the extensive Lake George Islands Campgrounds system, managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), East Dollar Island provides a rare opportunity to camp on your own private island site, accessible only by boat. It’s an invitation to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and truly connect with nature on one of New York’s most iconic lakes.

East Dollar Island is one of the many state-owned islands on Lake George that offers designated campsites. It's known for its relatively rustic, traditional camping experience, appealing to those who appreciate privacy and a genuine wilderness feel. Since its development in the late 1930s and 1940s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, these island campgrounds have become a cherished part of the Adirondack Park, celebrated for their unique settings and abundant recreational opportunities. If the thought of paddling or boating to your secluded haven on Lake George sounds like your ideal getaway, then East Dollar Island Campground might be your perfect New York escape.

East Dollar Island Campground is located on East Dollar Island on Lake George, with the address 60 E Dollar Island, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA. While Bolton Landing serves as the nearby mainland town for supplies and marinas, it is crucial to understand that all campsites on East Dollar Island are boat-access only. This means you will need to bring your own boat or rent one from a local marina to reach your campsite.

East Dollar Island is part of the Glen Island Group of islands on Lake George. Campers typically register at the Glen Island Ranger Station, which acts as the main hub for this group of islands. From there, you'll embark on your boat journey to your specific site on East Dollar Island. The island itself is located next to West Dollar Island, which is known for its "great jumping rocks," hinting at more recreational opportunities nearby.

The strategic location within Lake George provides:

• Proximity to Bolton Landing: Campers can access various services in Bolton Landing, including boat rentals, public boat launches, grocery stores, and restaurants.
• Central Lake George Exploration: Being on Lake George provides unparalleled access to the entire 32-mile long lake, allowing for extensive boating, fishing, and exploration of its numerous bays, coves, and other islands.
• Adirondack Park Immersion: The campground is firmly situated within the vast Adirondack Park, offering opportunities to explore nearby mainland hiking trails and scenic vistas that overlook the lake and surrounding mountains.

The boat-in access not only enhances the secluded nature of the camping experience but also ensures a quieter environment, free from the noise of vehicles, allowing for a deeper immersion into the natural surroundings.

East Dollar Island Campground, as part of the NYSDEC Lake George Islands system, provides essential services that support a rustic, boat-in camping experience. The focus is on facilitating a natural escape while offering fundamental amenities:

• Campsites (Boat-In Only): East Dollar Island features three distinct campsites (Campsite #1, #2, and #3), each designed for a private and immersive experience. Each site typically includes:
  • Dock for one boat: Essential for mooring your vessel, with water depths generally ranging from 3 to 4 feet near the docks. Campsite #1 specifically has a dock.
  • Fireplace or fire ring: For campfires and outdoor cooking.
  • Picnic table: For outdoor dining.
  • Tent space: The size and layout of sites vary; for example, Campsite #3 is described as a "high site with lots of sun" and a 12'x14' tent platform, while Campsite #1 is noted for its length and "about 400 steps from the first sight to the last," suggesting a spacious layout.
• Toilet Facilities: A pit-type privy (outhouse) is available on the island, shared among the campsites. It's a rustic amenity consistent with wilderness camping.
• No Running Water or Electricity: Campers should be aware that there are no running water or electricity hookups directly at the campsites on the island. Campers are responsible for bringing their own potable water or having a means to purify lake water for drinking and cooking.
• Waste Management: A "Carry In, Carry Out" policy is strictly enforced. All trash and waste must be packed out by campers to maintain the pristine environment of the island.
• Reservations: Reservations are mandatory for all campsites and can be made through the ReserveAmerica system. Due to high demand, particularly during peak season, booking well in advance is essential.
• Ranger Presence: A ranger station (usually on a central island like Glen Island) provides oversight and assistance for the island campers in the group.

These services ensure a functional yet authentically rustic camping experience, emphasizing self-sufficiency and respect for the natural environment.

East Dollar Island Campground, and the Lake George Islands system it belongs to, is celebrated for several unique features and highlights that create an unparalleled outdoor experience for New Yorkers:

• Secluded Island Camping: The most compelling feature is the ability to camp on a private or semi-private island. This offers an unmatched sense of tranquility and exclusivity, far from the crowds of mainland campgrounds. The specific review mentioning the "long" distance between sites on East Dollar Island suggests ample space and privacy.
• Boat-In Wilderness Immersion: The boat-access-only nature ensures a genuine wilderness feel, eliminating vehicle noise and enhancing the peaceful ambiance. This also provides direct access to Lake George's waters right from your campsite's dock.
• Prime Lake George Recreation: Campers have immediate access to the full recreational offerings of Lake George, known for its crystal-clear waters:
  • Boating and Paddling: Ideal for all types of watercraft, from powerboats to kayaks and canoes. Explore hidden coves, other islands, and enjoy the vastness of the lake.
  • Exceptional Freshwater Fishing: Lake George boasts a thriving "two-story fishery" with species like landlocked salmon, lake trout, smallmouth bass, and northern pike, offering superb fishing opportunities.
  • Swimming: Enjoy swimming directly from your island site into the refreshing lake waters.
• Rustic & Authentic Adirondack Experience: With basic amenities like pit toilets and no electricity, the campground delivers a true back-to-nature experience. Each site typically includes a fireplace and picnic table, perfect for traditional campfire cooking and gathering.
• Scenic Beauty & Stargazing: Surrounded by the stunning Adirondack mountains and the vastness of Lake George, campers can enjoy breathtaking views and unparalleled opportunities for stargazing away from light pollution.
• Proximity to West Dollar Island: Being next to West Dollar Island, with its "great jumping rocks," offers an added recreational highlight for adventurous campers.

These combined features create a unique and highly desirable camping destination for New Yorkers seeking a memorable and authentic Adirondack island getaway.

As a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) campground, East Dollar Island Campground operates under state-mandated pricing and policies. Therefore, it does not typically offer commercial-style "promotions" or discounts as a private campground might. However, there are standard aspects of the state park system that are relevant to campers:

• Standardized Rates: Campsite fees are set by the NYSDEC and are consistent across the Lake George Islands system. These rates are transparent and can be found on the ReserveAmerica booking platform or the official NYSDEC website. Rates are typically per night, with additional fees for out-of-state residents.
• Advance Reservations: The most important "offer" is the ability to secure a highly coveted island campsite. Given the immense popularity of these unique sites on Lake George, making reservations far in advance (up to 9 months ahead) is absolutely essential, especially for weekends, holidays, and peak summer dates. "Same-day reservations" are typically allowed only until 5 PM on the day of arrival, and only if a site is available, which is rare for island sites.
• Junior Naturalist Program: While not a discount, the Lake George Islands Campgrounds often participate in the NYSDEC's Junior Naturalist Program. This free program offers engaging activities and games for young children (ages 5-13) and their families, providing an educational and fun component to their stay.

It is important for prospective campers to always consult the official NYSDEC camping website or ReserveAmerica for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, availability, and specific rules regarding maximum stay limits (typically 14 cumulative nights from July 1 to Labor Day), pet policies (pets are generally prohibited on Lake George island campsites), and waste disposal ("Carry In, Carry Out").

To plan your unparalleled island camping adventure at East Dollar Island Campground on Lake George, here’s how to access information and make reservations:

Address: 60 E Dollar Island, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA

For Reservations (Highly Recommended): New York State Parks utilizes ReserveAmerica for online bookings and a call center for phone reservations.

ReserveAmerica Phone: 1-800-456-2267

Lake George Islands Campground Regional Office (for general inquiries specific to the islands, though reservations are through ReserveAmerica): (518) 623-1200

It is strongly advised to secure your reservation far in advance, as island campsites are among the most sought-after in the Adirondacks.

For New Yorkers who yearn for a truly distinctive and deeply immersive outdoor experience, East Dollar Island Campground on Lake George represents an ideal choice. Its unique boat-access-only nature immediately sets it apart, offering a level of privacy and unspoiled tranquility that is a rare commodity in the often-bustling world of outdoor recreation. This means less noise, minimal light pollution, and a profound sense of connection with the pristine Adirondack wilderness, all within a manageable distance for residents across New York.

What makes East Dollar Island exceptionally suitable for locals is its emphasis on authentic, rustic camping combined with direct access to the unparalleled recreational opportunities of Lake George. For those who own a boat, or are willing to rent one, it opens up a world of adventure – from leisurely cruises and thrilling water sports to exceptional fishing for a variety of species. The ability to dock your boat right at your private island site, and swim from your shoreline, epitomizes the quintessential Lake George experience. The ample space between sites, as suggested by the reviewer's comment about the "400 steps" between them, ensures a secluded and peaceful retreat.

East Dollar Island Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an invitation to embrace self-reliance, witness breathtaking sunsets over the water, and create unforgettable memories around a campfire under a canopy of stars. It’s perfect for New Yorkers who prioritize solitude, appreciate the raw beauty of nature, and seek an adventurous yet serene escape into the heart of the Adirondack Park, right in their own beautiful state.

East Dollar Island Campground #1 (dock)

60 E Dollar Island, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA