Little Burgess Island Campground #1, Bolton Landing, NY

Introduction / Overview

For New York State outdoor enthusiasts, the islands of Lake George represent the pinnacle of secluded, rustic camping, and few experiences rival the privacy offered by Little Burgess Island Campground #1. This destination is truly unique—it is a coveted, one-campsite island, meaning that reserving this spot grants you exclusive access to the entire island for the duration of your stay. Part of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) Narrow Island Group, Little Burgess Island is located in the beautiful northern section of Lake George, near the historic and scenic town of Bolton Landing. This is a pure 'boat-in' location, demanding a sense of adventure and preparation, but rewarding campers with unparalleled tranquility and a truly private waterfront setting in the Adirondack Park.

Little Burgess Island is a small, forested gem known for its flat terrain, which makes setting up camp simple, and its ideal sun exposure, catching plenty of glorious morning sun. While it offers a back-to-nature experience, the site is perfectly outfitted with the traditional amenities needed for a comfortable and self-sufficient camping trip. For New Yorkers looking to completely disconnect, swap the noise of the city for the gentle lapping of the 'Queen of American Lakes,' and enjoy a vacation on their own private island, Little Burgess Island is an extraordinary find—if you can secure a reservation.

Location and Accessibility

Little Burgess Island is nestled within the Narrow Island Group on Lake George, an area known for its stunning natural beauty and dramatic mountain backdrops. The official mailing address provided is 69 Little Burgess, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA. However, it is crucial for prospective campers to understand that this site is entirely water-accessible. There is no bridge or ferry service.

Accessing the island involves driving to a mainland marina near Bolton Landing or Huletts Landing—the nearest mainland points for the Narrow Island Group. From there, you must travel to the island via a private boat, a rental, or a water taxi service. Campers bringing their own vessel must adhere to Lake George Park Commission regulations, including obtaining a necessary User's Permit, and must arrange for secure long-term parking for their vehicle and trailer at a private marina, which usually involves a fee. The boat trip itself is part of the adventure, offering spectacular views of the Adirondack shoreline. The dedicated dock at Little Burgess Island is approximately 24 feet long, with a water depth of around 3.5 feet, making it suitable for docking small to medium recreational boats. Campers must be fully self-sufficient and bring all necessary supplies, as there are no stores on the island itself.

Services Offered

As a dedicated New York State DEC island campsite, Little Burgess Island Campground #1 focuses on providing essential, functional facilities to support a rustic, unforgettable camping experience.

Exclusive Dockage: The island features its own 24-foot dedicated dock, reserved solely for the one camping party on the island. This dock provides secure mooring for one boat, allowing easy access to and from the island.
Sanitation Facility: A holding-type privy (a standard rustic toilet facility) is provided on the island for the exclusive use of the occupying party.
Campfire Amenities: The site includes a designated spot for a campfire, along with the standard issue fireplace or fire pit. Campers are reminded of the New York State law that prohibits importing firewood from outside a 50-mile radius to prevent the spread of forest pests; only locally sourced or approved firewood should be used.
Dining and Food Prep: The campsite is equipped with two sturdy picnic tables, offering ample space for meal preparation, dining, and gathering throughout the day.
Capacity Limit: The entire island and its single campsite are designed to host a small group, with a maximum capacity of four individuals and up to two tents. This strict limit contributes to the site's exclusive and low-impact nature.

Features / Highlights

Little Burgess Island’s main highlight is its unique designation as a one-campsite island, granting an extraordinary level of privacy that is rarely found in public campgrounds. This feature alone makes it a highly desirable destination for locals.

Total Seclusion: As the sole occupants of the island, campers are guaranteed complete privacy and an authentic 'private island' feel. This is ideal for small families or couples seeking a true escape from crowded mainland areas.
Easy Swimming Access: The island boasts a fantastic natural feature: a great little swimming spot with a rock ledge that allows campers to walk directly into the clear, refreshing waters of Lake George. This is a major draw for water-loving New Yorkers.
Ideal Sun Exposure: The island is well-known for receiving abundant morning sun, perfectly lighting the campsite and making for beautiful sunrises over the eastern shore of the lake, a great start to any day of Adirondack adventure.
Natural Tent Site: While the campsite does not have a wooden tent platform, the center of the site is noted to be nice and flat, offering excellent ground for pitching tents securely and comfortably.
Direct Access to Lake Recreation: With a boat docked right at your site, you have immediate access to world-class boating, paddling (kayaking/canoeing), and fishing on Lake George. The lake’s clear waters support a two-story fishery, offering opportunities for bass and pike near the shore, and trout and salmon in deeper sections.

Contact Information

Little Burgess Island Campground is managed under the umbrella of the Lake George Islands, supervised by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC).

Address (Island Location): 69 Little Burgess, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA

NYSDEC Regional Office Phone (General Inquiries/Lake George Islands Headquarters): (518) 623-1200

NYSDEC Regional Office Mobile Phone (Alternative Contact): +1 518-623-1200

Note: Reservations for this site must be made through the New York State Park Reservation system, typically well in advance due to the high demand for a private island campsite.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Little Burgess Island Campground is an outstanding option for New York residents because it offers a rare and high-quality type of outdoor retreat that is truly local. New Yorkers value convenience paired with an authentic experience, and this island delivers by providing total seclusion within a few hours' drive of major metropolitan areas. The 'private island' experience—a single campsite on an entire piece of land—is an unparalleled luxury in public land camping, yet remains accessible through the New York State reservation system. It allows families and small groups to create a perfect, self-contained vacation where the lake is their backyard, offering endless opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating without the noise or intrusion of neighboring campers. The requirement of boat-in access weeds out casual visitors, ensuring that those who make the effort are committed to respecting the environment and embracing the unique tranquility of the Adirondack Park. For a deep, restorative, and quintessentially New York State summer adventure, Little Burgess Island is an experience locals will cherish and seek to return to year after year.