Horicon Island Campground, Bolton Landing, NY

Introduction / Overview

For New York residents, the Adirondack Park and Lake George represent the pinnacle of summer recreation. The Horicon Island Campground offers one of the most exclusive ways to enjoy this spectacular environment: through dedicated island camping. Located within the quiet and highly sought-after Narrow Island Group—historically known as the 'Mother Bunch' of islands—Horicon is not just a campsite; it is essentially a private island for the duration of your stay.

Horicon Island features a single campsite (often denoted as Hor001), limited to a maximum of four people. This low-density restriction is the key to its appeal, guaranteeing a peaceful, private retreat away from the crowds often found at mainland campgrounds. Described as being "bathed in morning sun," the island is perfect for families and small groups who prioritize a stunning sunrise and excellent swimming access. The island's narrow shape allows for a cross-breeze, which helps keep the air fresh and minimizes issues with insects, a significant advantage for campers.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), a stay at Horicon Island Campground is a true Adirondack adventure. It requires a boat for access—a powerboat, canoe, or kayak—meaning all provisions and gear must be transported across the water. This commitment to 'boat-in' camping ensures that the island maintains its rustic, pristine character. For many local users who have enjoyed Lake George for years, securing a reservation on an island like Horicon is the ultimate accomplishment, providing a completely self-sufficient and "Awesome" camping experience, as noted by one enthusiastic customer. It is a genuine slice of the Adirondack wilderness, reserved exclusively for you.

Location and Accessibility

Horicon Island Campground is situated in the Narrow Island Group on the northern end of Lake George, approximately seven miles north of the resort village of Bolton Landing, NY. The physical address provided—72 Horicon Mother Bunch 6, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA—identifies the specific island location but is, critically, only accessible by boat.

Access Details: Visitors from New York's metropolitan areas or other regions must first travel to a nearby mainland marina or boat launch near Bolton Landing or Huletts Landing. From there, you must utilize your own boat, a rented vessel, or a water taxi service to reach the island. Upon arrival on Lake George, campers must check in at the Narrow Island Ranger Station, which oversees the Mother Bunch islands. The island itself is equipped with two separate docks, allowing for flexibility in boat mooring and providing excellent waterfront accessibility for all activities. Being in the Narrow Island Group, the area is known for being one of the quietest and most private of the Lake George island regions, though it is still popular with day-use boaters in nearby bays.

Services Offered

As a DEC-managed, rustic island campsite, Horicon Island Campground provides the essential infrastructure for a self-sufficient, comfortable outdoor stay. All standard DEC island site amenities are provided:

Two dedicated boat docks for the exclusive mooring of the campers' vessel(s).
One single-family campsite area, private and protected from the docks.
A holding tank type privy (toilet facility) to maintain environmental standards.
A secure fireplace or fire pit for cooking and enjoyment.
At least one picnic table for outdoor dining and food preparation.
A designated area for tent setup, though this specific site does not have a permanent tent platform.
Strict rules regarding firewood (must be purchased locally) and waste (carry-in, carry-out where applicable).

Features / Highlights

Horicon Island’s unique features are what elevate it beyond a standard campsite and make it a highly desirable destination for New York locals:

One Campsite Island: The island is dedicated to a single camping party, ensuring an extremely private and exclusive experience.
Excellent Swimming Area: The site is well-known for offering "lots of great swimming," with a reported water depth of four feet at the dock, making it ideal for families and water enthusiasts.
Morning Sun Exposure: The island is bathed in morning sun, a great feature for early risers and for quickly drying out tents and gear.
Breezy Location: Its narrow shape promotes a consistent cross-breeze, which helps deter insects and keeps the atmosphere fresh.
Blueberry Bushes: The island is noted to be covered in blueberry bushes, adding a unique, natural charm and potential foraging opportunity for guests (seasonal).
No Pets Policy: A DEC regulation for all Lake George Islands, guaranteeing a pristine, wildlife-focused environment without the presence of dogs on the island or moored vessels.

Contact Information

The Horicon Island Campground is part of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's Narrow Island Group. Reservations are required and should be made well in advance.

Island Location Address: 72 Horicon Mother Bunch 6, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA (Boat Access Only)

Regional DEC Phone: (518) 623-1200 (General Information)

Narrow Island Ranger Station Phone: (518) 499-1288 (Seasonal Operations & Check-in)

Reservation Phone: 1-800-456-CAMP (Primary booking line for all DEC campgrounds)

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Horicon Island Campground is the ultimate self-contained summer getaway for New Yorkers. It’s an accessible slice of Adirondack wilderness that offers total privacy—a rare commodity in the crowded Northeast. The island's single-site exclusivity removes the stress of dealing with nearby neighbors, allowing for a fully immersive natural experience. Its location in the northern, quieter Narrow Island Group means less large boat traffic compared to the lake's southern end, providing a more tranquil setting for swimming, fishing, and paddling.

This experience perfectly suits the local user who owns a boat or is willing to rent one, transforming a simple camping trip into an exciting maritime adventure. The consistently positive feedback, including the simple yet powerful customer rating of "Awesome," underscores the high value placed on this unique island sanctuary. For a New Yorker looking to truly unplug and reconnect with nature in a safe, preserved, and breathtakingly beautiful environment, booking the private Horicon Island is a cherished annual tradition and an unforgettable opportunity.