Brush Island Campground, Bolton Landing, NY

Introduction / Overview: Your Private Adirondack Island Escape

For New York residents who dream of a true wilderness retreat—a place where the only neighbors are the loons and the lake—Brush Island Campground offers a rare and highly sought-after experience. Located on the crystal-clear waters of Lake George, the "Queen of the American Lakes," Brush Island is distinguished as the largest single campsite island in the entire Lake George Islands system. This unique status means that when you secure a reservation for Brush Island, you secure the entire island, guaranteeing a level of privacy and seclusion that is virtually impossible to find elsewhere in the busy Adirondack summer season.

Administered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) as part of the Glen Island Group, camping here is reserved for those who arrive by boat. It embodies the adventurous spirit of boat-in camping while providing the simple, essential amenities needed for an authentic outdoor stay. If your goal is to disconnect, immerse yourself in nature, and create a truly personal lakeside haven, Brush Island stands out as a premier destination for New York’s outdoor enthusiasts.

Location and Accessibility

Brush Island is strategically situated in the central section of Lake George, within the renowned "Narrows," a beautiful, island-dotted stretch of the lake. This location places it near other popular landmarks, such as Big Burnt Island and Uncas Island.

Official Address for Reference:

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

Accessibility: Brush Island is a pure boat-in experience. There is no mainland access, meaning all campers must arrive via their own private boat, a rental from one of the many local Lake George marinas (particularly around Bolton Landing), or a water taxi service. The island provides its own dedicated dock for your vessel. The coordinates place it within the operational area of the Glen Island Ranger Station, which is where campers must check in to officially claim their reservation before proceeding to their private island. This necessary reliance on watercraft is precisely what ensures the island's isolation and exclusivity, elevating it beyond a typical roadside campground.

Registration and Check-In: Campers reserved for Brush Island must first check in at the Glen Island Ranger Station—the main administrative hub for this section of the lake—to receive their camping permit and any essential information before navigating to the secluded island.

Services Offered

As a single-site island, Brush Island offers a streamlined, rustic, and self-sufficient camping experience. While the individual site amenities are kept intentionally simple to maintain a natural environment, the surrounding Lake George Islands system provides support services to enhance your stay.

Services provided directly on Brush Island (for the exclusive use of your party):

Private Dock: A shore dock is provided, which is noted for being well-protected from lake wakes and suitable for a single boat, as per DEC regulations.
Outhouse Facility: A dedicated toilet facility (privy/outhouse) is included on the island, maintained by the DEC staff.
Fire Ring/Fireplace: A designated fireplace is available for cooking and campfires (local, untreated firewood is required).
Picnic Table: A sturdy picnic table is provided for meals and gathering.

Nearby Support Services (via short boat ride to Glen Island Ranger Station):

Convenience Store: A general store operates on nearby Glen Island, offering essentials like ice, fresh water, snacks, coffee, and firewood—critical for re-supplying without a trip to the mainland.
Ranger Assistance: DEC Rangers at the Glen Island Headquarters are available for emergencies, information, and check-in procedures.

Features / Highlights

Brush Island is truly a jewel among the Lake George Islands, offering compelling features that draw campers back year after year:

Unrivaled Seclusion: The paramount feature is its designation as a single campsite island. This guarantees absolute privacy; your camping party will be the only occupants on the island.
Spacious Tent Areas: Although it does not have a formal tent platform, visitor reviews confirm there are "plenty of good spots for multiple tents," allowing for flexible and comfortable camp layouts for up to six people and two tents.
Ideal Location for Exploration: Situated in the Narrows, the island provides an excellent launch point for exploring the famous, picturesque central area of Lake George, known for its deep, clear waters and stunning Adirondack views.
Maximum Occupancy: The site accommodates up to six individuals, making it perfect for a family or a small group of friends seeking an exclusive getaway.
Natural, Sunny Setting: The island is largely open and sunny, creating a beautiful contrast with the deep tree coverage that typically characterizes the region, though some areas still offer heavy tree coverage and shade.
Water Depth: The water depth near the dock is noted to be approximately three feet, which is convenient for docking and accessing the boat.
Recreational Opportunities: As with all Lake George island sites, the location is phenomenal for freshwater fishing (license required), swimming off the shore dock, and general boating activities.

Contact Information

Brush Island is a component of the Lake George Islands Campgrounds system and is managed by the DEC. The regional phone number is provided for general inquiries, though reservations are handled through the state’s official booking partner.

Physical Location (for Navigation):

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

DEC Regional Office Phone (General Inquiries):

(518) 623-1200

DEC Regional Office Mobile Phone (Alternative Contact):

+1 518-623-1200

Reservations:

Due to its unique privacy, Brush Island is one of the most desirable sites and is booked almost immediately. Reservations can be made up to nine months in advance through the New York State online booking system or by calling the reservation call center at 1-800-456-2267. Early booking is strongly advised.

Conclusion: Why Brush Island is Suitable for New York Locals

Brush Island Campground offers a transformative escape for New Yorkers looking to reset and reconnect with the spectacular natural beauty of the Adirondacks. It is not just a campsite; it is a temporary lease on a private island. The suitability for local users stems from several key factors. First, it offers unparalleled seclusion—a premium commodity for residents accustomed to crowded city life or busy mainland campgrounds. Second, the boat-in requirement, while an extra logistical step, filters out mass tourism and guarantees a quiet, high-quality outdoor experience.

This destination is ideal for those who are prepared to handle the logistics of boat-in camping and who value tranquility above all else. With the essential amenities of a protected dock, a fireplace, and a private outhouse already provided, your group only needs to pack in your gear and food. For residents who love Lake George but crave an exclusive, undisturbed retreat for up to 14 nights, securing Brush Island means claiming a truly special piece of the New York State Forest Preserve. It is the gold standard for private island camping in the Empire State.