Gourd Island Campground #1, Bolton Landing, NY

Introduction / Overview

Gourd Island Campground #1 is a hidden gem in the crown of the Adirondack Park, offering New York residents an exclusive and rustic camping experience on the legendary Lake George. This is one of the many state-owned island campsites managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), located within the popular Glen Island Group. What sets Gourd Island apart is its classification as a highly sought-after, single-site island. This means the entire island is reserved for one party, providing unparalleled privacy and an authentic wilderness feeling that is a true escape from the bustle of city life.

The experience is defined by its boat-access-only nature, making it a favorite for those who own or rent a small watercraft, such as a canoe, kayak, or small motorboat. It caters to campers who are comfortable with essential, non-modern amenities and who prioritize serenity and stunning natural surroundings over creature comforts. The reviews reflect the dedication required—one customer notes the "hard work" involved in canoeing to the site, which was "well worth the effort," speaking volumes about the reward of this unique destination.

Location and Accessibility

Gourd Island Campground #1 is located on Lake George, with an official mailing address of 42 Gourd Island, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA. This places the island in the central section of the lake, nestled within the cluster of islands known as the Glen Island Group, near the area known as The Narrows. The location is easily accessible from the Adirondack Northway (I-87) for local travelers heading north.

The single most important factor for accessibility is the requirement of boat transportation. Campers must secure a private or rented boat to reach the island. The journey typically begins by parking and launching from a mainland private marina near Bolton Landing, followed by a boat trip across the clear waters of Lake George. Upon arrival, campers must first register at the Glen Island Group Headquarters, a necessary step before occupying the site. It is critical for local users to plan their boat journey carefully. While the island boasts a shore dock for mooring one boat, the water depth is noted to be approximately 4 feet, requiring basic boating competence. The secluded nature of the island is directly tied to this boat-in-only access, ensuring a peaceful retreat far from vehicle traffic.

Services Offered

As a designated rustic island campsite within the NYS DEC Lake George Islands Campgrounds system, Gourd Island #1 provides foundational services designed to minimize environmental impact while supporting basic overnight camping.

Dedicated Shore Dock: The campsite features a designated shore dock, providing mooring for one boat and facilitating access to the island.
Toilet Facility: A basic toilet facility, typically a pit privy, is available on the island to handle essential sanitation needs in a remote setting.
Campfire and Cooking: Each site is equipped with a fireplace and a picnic table, allowing campers to prepare meals and enjoy the quintessential camp experience.
Tent Platform: A flat, prepared area, such as a 12-foot by 14-foot tent platform, is provided to ensure a dry and level surface for setting up a tent.
Campsite Capacity: Gourd Island #1 is strictly limited to a maximum of two people, making it an ideal destination for couples or small, focused parties seeking maximum solitude.
Mandatory Reservations: Reservations are required and must be secured through the ReserveAmerica system well in advance, as the demand for single-site island camping is exceptionally high among New York outdoor enthusiasts.

Features / Highlights

Gourd Island Campground #1 is known for specific natural features that contribute to its highly distinct camping atmosphere, offering both benefits and challenges for the experienced camper.

Exclusive Island Experience: The primary feature is its status as a single-site island, guaranteeing total privacy and a fully immersive, 360-degree waterfront camping environment.
Very Sunny Exposure: The site is described as being "very sunny," which is ideal for sun lovers and for drying gear quickly, but provides little natural shade.
Excellent Bug Protection: Due to its open and elevated position, the island is often subject to winds from all directions. This feature, while sometimes challenging for tent setup, is a major benefit as the wind naturally provides "great bug protection," a significant advantage noted by campers.
Uninterrupted Lake Views: The flat and open nature of the island means campers are rewarded with panoramic, unobstructed views of Lake George and the surrounding Adirondack peaks.
Paddling Paradise: Located amidst the many islands of the Glen Island Group, the area is perfectly situated for kayaking and canoeing (as noted by a customer review), allowing for exploration of the secluded coves and surrounding shorelines.
Rustic Simplicity: The site's deliberate lack of modern amenities (such as hot showers or electric hookups) appeals to campers looking to fully embrace an off-grid, rugged, yet peaceful escape.

Contact Information

Gourd Island Campground #1 is administered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) as part of the Lake George Islands Campgrounds.

Address: 42 Gourd Island, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA (For navigation to a launching point, as the island is only boat-accessible.)

Central DEC Phone for Lake George Islands: (518) 623-1200

Mobile Phone: +1 518-623-1200

Note: Campers must coordinate all logistics and reservations through the NYS DEC system, and should contact the Glen Island Group Ranger Station directly for site-specific inquiries after booking.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For New Yorkers seeking a profound departure from the routines of their local communities, Gourd Island Campground #1 offers a level of seclusion and natural beauty that is unparalleled within a manageable driving distance. The challenging yet rewarding nature of boat-in camping—as one camper mentioned, "well worth the effort"—creates a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to the spectacular Adirondack environment. This site directly addresses the local desire for authentic, off-grid experiences without having to travel out of state.

The island’s unique natural defenses against insects, provided by the ever-present breeze, is a huge draw for summer campers who often battle relentless bugs elsewhere. This single-site sanctuary on Lake George provides a much-needed mental break, encouraging local users to slow down, fish, paddle, and simply watch the sun rise and set over the mountains. Gourd Island #1 is a premium rustic destination that allows a small party to claim their own piece of the 'Queen of American Lakes' for a truly unforgettable, private New York wilderness experience.