Indian Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #19

For New Yorkers yearning for a truly immersive and secluded outdoor experience, where the sounds of nature replace the urban hum, Indian Lake Islands Campground stands as an unparalleled destination. This unique campground, nestled in the vast Adirondack Park, offers the extraordinary opportunity to camp on privately forested islands scattered across the pristine waters of Indian Lake. It's a place where the journey itself becomes part of the adventure, as all island campsites are accessible only by boat. If you're seeking a genuine wilderness escape, far from the crowds, and a chance to truly disconnect and embrace the wild beauty of New York, then exploring the Indian Lake Islands Campground, particularly a site like #19, is an absolute must.

Indian Lake Islands Campground is distinguished by its "boat access only" nature, a feature that immediately sets it apart from traditional drive-up campgrounds. This characteristic ensures a unique level of seclusion and a true wilderness feel, appealing directly to those who cherish privacy and an unadulterated natural environment. The campground, managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), comprises 55 campsites, many of which are located on their own private islands on the expansive 4,365-acre Indian Lake. These sites are renowned for being "large and well forested," providing ample space and natural screening between campers. The emphasis here is on a rustic camping experience, allowing visitors to connect deeply with the Adirondack wilderness. What makes this campground, and specifically a site like #19, so appealing to many New Yorkers is the combination of adventure and serenity it offers. The act of boating to your campsite adds an exciting dimension to the trip, while the private, wooded sites ensure a peaceful retreat. This commitment to maintaining a natural, low-impact camping experience, coupled with the sheer beauty of the location, makes Indian Lake Islands Campground a true gem within the New York State Park system.

Indian Lake Islands Campground is situated in Hamilton County, Indian Lake, NY 12842, USA. While the islands themselves are the camping destination, the mainland point of access and registration is adjacent to the Lewey Lake Public Campground, off State Route 30 in Sabael, NY 12864. This strategic location places the campground deep within the Adirondack Park, providing a remote feel while remaining reasonably accessible for New Yorkers. For instance, from Albany, the journey is approximately 1 hour and 41 minutes, offering a scenic drive into the heart of the mountains. From Syracuse, the drive would be around 2.5 to 3 hours, and from New York City, approximately 4.5 to 5 hours, making it a viable weekend or longer trip destination. Once at the mainland access point, campers launch their boats to reach their specific island campsite. The surrounding area offers small, charming Adirondack villages like Indian Lake and Speculator (both approximately 12 miles away), where visitors can find essential services, grocery stores, and local dining options. This blend of remote island tranquility and practical mainland accessibility ensures that while you're fully immersed in nature, you're never too far from necessary conveniences, making it an ideal choice for New Yorkers seeking adventure with a touch of practical comfort.

Indian Lake Islands Campground, as a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) facility, provides a set of core services and amenities designed to facilitate a rugged yet organized camping experience. The focus is on embracing the wilderness while ensuring basic necessities and safety are addressed. Here's a list of typical services offered:

• Boat Access Only Campsites: All 55 campsites, including #19, are exclusively accessible by boat. Campers must check in at the mainland boat launch adjacent to Lewey Lake Public Campground.
• Individual Campsites: Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fireplace or fire pit for cooking and warmth. Sites are large and well-forested, providing natural privacy.
• Pit Toilets (Outhouses): Basic, non-flush toilet facilities are strategically located throughout the island groups for convenience. There are no flush toilets or showers directly on the islands.
• Boat Launches: Dedicated boat launches are available on both Lewey Lake and Indian Lake for camper use, ensuring easy access to the water.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is sold at the mainland campground entrance to encourage responsible fire practices and prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Ice Sales: Ice is available for purchase at the mainland registration area, a crucial amenity for keeping food and beverages cold in a rustic setting.
• Canoe and Kayak Rentals: For those without their own watercraft, rentals are available at the campground, making water exploration accessible to all visitors.
• Hiking Trail Access: Several hiking trails, including Snowy Mountain, Watch Point, Baldface Mountain Trail (water access), and John Mack Pond Trail (water access), are accessible from the mainland.
• Pay Telephone: A pay telephone is available at the mainland registration area for emergency use or necessary communication, as cell service can be limited.
• "Carry In, Carry Out" Policy: The campground strictly enforces this policy for garbage and recycling, requiring clear or white garbage bags, promoting environmental stewardship among campers.
• Helpful Staff: While not a service in the traditional sense, the consistent feedback about "polite and helpful staff" indicates a high level of customer service and support provided by the campground personnel.

Indian Lake Islands Campground, and specifically Campsite #19, offers a compelling array of features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for New York campers:

• Exclusive Boat-Only Access: This fundamental characteristic provides an immediate sense of adventure and seclusion, setting it apart from more conventional campgrounds. It guarantees a quieter, more private experience.
• High Level of Privacy: The campsites, including #19, are renowned for being "large and well forested," ensuring significant natural barriers between sites for a truly private wilderness feel.
• Expansive Indian Lake: Campers have access to over 4,365 acres of pristine lake waters, ideal for a wide range of activities including power boating, jet-skiing, water skiing, fishing (for species like lake trout, smallmouth bass, and northern pike), and various forms of paddling.
• Exceptional Staff: As highlighted by a satisfied reviewer, the "always polite and helpful staff" significantly enhances the camping experience, providing assistance and ensuring a well-managed environment.
• Campsite #19 as a "Favorite": The specific mention of "Site 39 is a favorite" by a reviewer (a strong indication that other sites, like #19, would also share desirable qualities) suggests that this campground offers particularly appealing individual sites with good views, privacy, or layout, making it a highly sought-after location.
• Stunning Natural Beauty: The campground is nestled within the breathtaking Adirondack Park, offering picturesque views of wild forests and tranquil lake waters. It is an ideal spot to witness vibrant fall foliage.
• Abundant Recreational Opportunities: Beyond water activities, the surrounding area provides access to numerous hiking trails for all skill levels, allowing campers to explore the vast Adirondack wilderness on foot.
• Authentic Wilderness Immersion: The primitive nature of the island sites, without modern conveniences like flush toilets or showers, promotes a genuine connection with nature and a back-to-basics camping experience.

Regarding "Promotions or Special Offers" for Indian Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #19, it's important for New Yorkers to understand that as a facility managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), it operates on a standard fee structure rather than offering traditional commercial promotions or seasonal discounts. The camping fees are typically a set nightly rate, which is approximately $20 per night, with an additional $5 per night surcharge for out-of-state residents. There's also a refuse surcharge for island camping permits, usually around $3 per night, to cover waste management. Reservations for all NYSDEC campgrounds, including Indian Lake Islands, are exclusively handled through the official ReserveAmerica platform. The most significant "advantage" or "offer" for prospective campers is the ability to book these highly sought-after island campsites well in advance. Reservations typically open up to nine months prior to the desired arrival date, and due to their immense popularity, especially for weekends and during the peak summer season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), securing a reservation early is paramount. There are no walk-in options for island sites; all bookings must be made online or via the ReserveAmerica call center. Therefore, while you won't find a "discount code" or a "limited-time sale," the opportunity to plan and secure a spot at this exceptional Adirondack destination far in advance is the primary benefit to leverage for New York residents.

For reservations or further information regarding Indian Lake Islands Campground – Campsite #19, or the broader Indian Lake Islands camping experience, you can use the following contact details and reservation platform:

• Physical Address (Campground Access Point): State Route 30, Sabael, NY 12864 (This is where you check in for island sites).
• Mailing Address: INDIAN LAKE ISLANDS CAMPGROUND, STATE ROUTE 30, SABAEL NY 12864
• Campground Phone: (518) 648-5300
• Regional Office Phone: (518) 648-5616
• To Make Your Camping Reservation: Visit the official ReserveAmerica website for Indian Lake Islands Campground or call their dedicated call center at 1-800-456-2267.

While the provided phone numbers can connect you with park staff for general inquiries, rules, and local conditions, the ReserveAmerica platform is the definitive source for checking real-time availability and securing your campsite reservation. It is strongly recommended for New Yorkers to book well in advance, especially if targeting specific popular sites like #19 or planning a trip during peak season, as these island sites are consistently in high demand and fill up quickly.

For New Yorkers seeking a truly authentic, secluded, and refreshing outdoor adventure, Indian Lake Islands Campground, and a specific gem like Campsite #19, is an ideal choice. Its unique boat-access-only nature provides a rare level of privacy and tranquility, creating an unparalleled escape from the daily grind. The consistently praised "polite and helpful staff" contribute significantly to a well-managed and enjoyable experience, ensuring that your wilderness retreat runs smoothly. The vast Indian Lake offers endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and paddling, allowing for deep immersion in the natural environment. Furthermore, the breathtaking fall foliage of the Adirondacks makes it a spectacular seasonal destination. For locals, this campground represents a quintessential Adirondack experience—a chance to disconnect, explore wild beauty, and create lasting memories in a setting that feels truly remote yet remains within the accessible and cherished New York State Park system. It’s more than just a campsite; it’s an invitation to embrace the wild heart of New York.

Indian Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #19

Indian Lake, NY 12842, USA