Gem Island Campground #1

Hey there, New Yorkers! Are you dreaming of a truly exclusive escape, a place where the glistening waters of Lake George surround you, and your campsite feels like your very own private oasis? Look no further than Gem Island Campground #1, a remarkable destination nestled in the iconic Narrows of Lake George. This isn't your typical drive-up campground; it's a unique opportunity to experience island camping at its finest, accessible only by boat, offering an unparalleled sense of tranquility and natural beauty.

Gem Island Campground #1 is part of the larger Lake George Islands camping system, renowned as "America's Queen Lake." It's specifically a single campsite island, perfect for small groups seeking privacy and direct access to the lake's wonders. Imagine waking up to panoramic lake views, enjoying your coffee on a sunny platform, and having the pristine waters just steps from your tent. If you're an avid boater, a dedicated angler, or simply someone yearning for a peaceful retreat far from the everyday hustle, Gem Island Campground #1 promises an unforgettable Adirondack adventure that truly sets it apart. It’s no wonder it's considered a "gem" among Lake George's many treasures.

Gem Island Campground #1 is uniquely located at 35 Gem In The Narrows Is, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA. This address places it squarely within the "Narrow Island Group" of the Lake George Islands, a highly sought-after section of the lake renowned for its picturesque scenery and numerous islands. Bolton Landing, a charming village in Warren County, New York, serves as the primary gateway to this island paradise.

What makes this location distinctive – and defines its accessibility – is that Gem Island Campground #1, like all Lake George island campsites, is accessible exclusively by boat. Campers typically launch their boats from a private marina or one of the public boat launches in the Bolton Landing area, then navigate to their specific island site. Gem Island is conveniently located just northeast of Phantom Island. The journey across the crystal-clear waters of Lake George is part of the adventure itself, offering stunning views and a gradual transition into a state of serene detachment. The island's strategic position in "The Narrows" means it experiences some boat activity, offering a lively backdrop while still maintaining a private feel. Its shallow waters around the island are particularly ideal for families with young children, allowing for safe swimming and easy access to the lake. This boat-only access ensures a level of seclusion and a true wilderness feel that is rare and highly prized by New Yorkers seeking an authentic Adirondack escape.

• Boat-In Campsite: Gem Island Campground #1 is a single-site island accessible exclusively by boat, providing a highly private and secluded camping experience.

• Dedicated Dock: Each island site, including Gem Island, comes with its own dock, capable of accommodating at least one boat, making arrival and departure convenient.

• Picnic Table: A picnic table is provided on the island, offering a dedicated space for outdoor dining and gathering.

• Fireplace/Fire Pit: Each site is equipped with a fireplace or fire pit with a cooking grate, perfect for campfires and outdoor cooking.

• Toilet Facility (Pit Privy): A rustic toilet facility (pit privy) is available on the island for camper convenience.

• Tent Platform: Gem Island features a tent platform, providing a level and dry surface for setting up your tent.

• Firewood Available: While not on the island itself, firewood can typically be purchased at the main ranger stations or local marinas, ensuring you have dry wood for your fires (and helping prevent the spread of invasive species by not bringing outside wood).

• Canoe/Kayak Rentals: While not offered directly on the island, canoe and kayak rentals are widely available at various marinas and outfitters around Lake George, facilitating water exploration for those without their own.

• Private Single-Site Island: This is the ultimate highlight. Gem Island Campground #1 offers the unique experience of having an entire island to yourself, providing unparalleled privacy and a true sense of secluded wilderness. It's truly a "private island" perfect for a small group of campers (maximum 4 people).

• Stunning Lake George Views: Positioned in The Narrows, the island offers beautiful views of Lake George and the surrounding mountains. With a platform that sits in the sun, you get both southern and northern views, perfect for taking in the scenic beauty.

• Shallow Waters Ideal for Families: The water around Gem Island is noted for being shallow, which is "ideal for little children," allowing for safe swimming and play directly from the island.

• Close to Little Gem Island: Campers can easily "swim over to Little Gem Island and discover that island," adding another layer of exploration and fun to their stay.

• Dock for Boating Convenience: The presence of a "nice dock off Gem Island" is a significant convenience, making it easy to moor your boat and access your campsite. This is crucial for boat-access only camping.

• Open to Wind (Mosquito Control): A practical feature is its openness to the wind, which "keeps mosquitos away," contributing to a more comfortable camping experience, especially during warmer months.

• Excellent Fishing Spot: The Lake George area, including the islands, is known for its superb fishing. Gem Island is highlighted as a great spot for anglers, with a "two-story fishery" offering species like lake trout, landlocked salmon, bass, and pike.

• Rustic Yet Equipped Campsite: Despite its wild setting, the campsite is large, flat, and well-forested, providing ample space. The tent platform, picnic table, and fireplace ensure a comfortable and functional camping setup.

• Proximity to Bolton Landing Amenities: While offering a secluded island experience, Gem Island is still within reasonable boating distance of Bolton Landing, which provides access to restaurants, shops, and marinas for supplies or rentals.

• Part of a Larger Island System: Being one of the Lake George Islands campgrounds means access to general amenities managed by the NYSDEC, including accessible comfort stations (showers, restrooms) at central locations within the island groups, as well as hiking trails on the mainland.

As a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) campground, Gem Island Campground #1 does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or discount codes in the traditional sense. The inherent value of this unique destination lies in its exclusive private island experience and the standard, affordable rates set by the state for such pristine natural settings. The most significant "offer" here is the rare opportunity to secure a private island campsite on Lake George, one of New York's most iconic bodies of water.

Given the immense popularity of the Lake George Islands camping, particularly for private island sites like Gem Island #1, securing a reservation well in advance is paramount. These sites often book up very quickly, especially for peak season weekends. Your best "special offer" is the ability to plan ahead and reserve your dates as soon as the booking window opens. We highly recommend checking the New York State Parks or Reserve America website for the most current booking windows, seasonal rates, and specific reservation policies. Planning far in advance is the key to unlocking this truly exceptional New York outdoor experience.

Ready to experience the unparalleled charm and privacy of Gem Island Campground #1 on Lake George? Here’s how you can get in touch:

• Address: 35 Gem In The Narrows Is, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA (Remember, this site is boat-access only).

• Phone (Glen Island Group Ranger Station, which oversees The Narrows): (518) 644-9696

• DEC Regional Office Phone (General Inquiries): (518) 623-1200

• Toll-Free Reservations (Reserve America): (800) 456-2267

For reservations, visiting the New York State Parks or Reserve America website is the most common and recommended method. Given the high demand for these unique island sites, it is strongly advised to book as far in advance as possible to secure your spot. When calling, specify you are inquiring about Gem Island Campground #1 in the Narrow Island Group. Remember to plan for boat transportation to and from the island.

For us New Yorkers, Gem Island Campground #1 is more than just a camping spot; it’s a slice of Adirondack paradise that speaks directly to our love for unique outdoor experiences and cherished natural wonders. Being able to secure a private island campsite on Lake George, arguably the "Queen" of American Lakes, is a truly special privilege right here in our own state.

The boat-only access immediately transforms your trip into an adventure, offering a thrilling sense of escape from the mainland hustle. Once on Gem Island, the privacy is unmatched – you have your own piece of tranquility, surrounded by the clear, shallow waters perfect for families and swimming. The constant breeze helps keep the bugs at bay, ensuring a more comfortable stay, and the prime fishing opportunities mean fresh catches for your campfire. It's the perfect blend of rustic wilderness and thoughtful amenities, like the tent platform and fire pit, that make for a seamless and memorable experience. If you’re a New Yorker seeking an intimate, picturesque, and truly unforgettable camping adventure that combines the thrill of island living with the beauty of the Adirondacks, Gem Island Campground #1 in Bolton Landing is an absolute must-visit. It’s a precious "gem" that truly showcases the best of New York’s natural treasures.

Gem Island Campground #1

35 Gem In The Narrows Is, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA