Phantom Island Campground #1&2 (dock), Bolton Landing, NY

Introduction / Overview

For New Yorkers seeking a distinctive Adirondack experience that combines the rugged beauty of island camping with a touch of convenience, Phantom Island Campground #1&2 on Lake George stands out as an exceptional choice. Part of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Lake George Islands Campsites, Phantom Island is a small, unique island located in the spectacularly scenic area known as “The Narrows,” near Bolton Landing.

Phantom Island is not just a destination; it's an adventure. It hosts a total of four individual campsites, which provide a much-coveted private island feel without being completely isolated. Its primary draw for local users is its prime location just across the channel from Glen Island, which serves as the hub for the Glen Island Group of campsites. This proximity offers easy, quick boat access to the Glen Island Ranger Station and the small general store, making it one of the most practical island camping experiences available on the lake. While the name 'Phantom' may evoke a playful sense of mystery—as humorously noted by one enthusiastic review: "Praaaaaaaaaaaaaadaaa😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😯😯😯😯😯😯😯😯 It must be scary!!!"—the true magic of Phantom Island lies in its breathtaking natural beauty and excellent location for accessing all that Lake George has to offer.

Campsites #1 and #2 on Phantom Island share a designated dock, offering an immediate waterfront experience and stunning views of the surrounding islands, including Uncas and Gem Islands, and the activity on the busy channel. This island provides a perfect blend of seclusion and connection, highly prized by experienced New York campers.

Location and Accessibility

The logistics of accessing Phantom Island, while unique, are straightforward for boat-ready New York outdoor enthusiasts.

Specific Location: The island is situated in The Narrows of Lake George, a stunning, island-dotted region to the east of Bolton Landing. It is part of the Glen Island Group of DEC campgrounds.
Official Address: The island’s location is officially designated as: 33 Phantom In Narrows Is, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA.
Boat-In Only: Like all Lake George Islands campsites, Phantom Island is accessible exclusively by watercraft. Campers must either bring their own boat (powerboat, canoe, or kayak) or arrange for a rental or water taxi service from the mainland.
Proximity to Ranger Headquarters: A significant accessibility benefit is its very close proximity to Glen Island, the central registration and service point for the entire group. This means registration, questions, and emergency contact are just a short boat ride away.
Mainland Gateway: The most common staging point for island campers is the nearby town of Bolton Landing, NY. Private marinas in this area provide facilities for launching boats, secure parking for vehicles and trailers, and water transportation services (note that fees apply for parking and launching).

Services Offered

Phantom Island offers rustic, essential amenities designed for a quality camping experience while preserving the island's natural state.

Designated Docking: Campsites #1 and #2 share a single designated dock for mooring one boat per campsite. This provides convenient access to the water and a stable point for loading and unloading gear.
Camping Platforms: Campsite #2 includes a tent platform, which provides a level, dry surface for pitching a tent, improving comfort and protecting the campsite environment.
Essentials on Site: Each reserved campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table for dining and meal prep, and a dedicated fireplace or fire pit for safe campfires (campers must adhere to the DEC's local firewood regulations).
Toilet Facilities: The island is serviced by a communal pit privy or toilet facility, ensuring basic sanitation requirements are met for all campers.
Access to Central Services: Due to its proximity to Glen Island, campers have quick access to the main ranger station and store for check-in, supplies, and information, though the island itself is primitive.

Features / Highlights

Phantom Island’s highlights center on its ideal balance of natural seclusion and practical access to Lake George amenities.

Exceptional Convenience: Being directly across a narrow channel from Glen Island's headquarters means campers can easily access essential amenities like the ranger station, which provides a layer of security and convenience not found on the more distant islands.
The Sandy Beach: Phantom Island features a small, shallow, and sandy beach area—a highly desirable and relatively rare feature among the islands. This spot is perfect for families with small children, allowing for safe, easy water entry and play.
Ideal for People-Watching: Campsites #1 and #4, in particular, overlook the channel and Glen Island, offering a unique opportunity to observe the boating activity and life on Lake George, providing a social connection for those who enjoy the bustle of the lake.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The small size, combined with the shallow beach and nearby ranger presence, makes Phantom Island a particularly appealing choice for family camping trips on Lake George.
Vibrant Recreational Opportunities: The central location in The Narrows offers endless opportunities for boating, paddling, fishing, and swimming in the pristine waters. Campers can explore the cluster of nearby islands like Gem and Uncas.

Contact Information

Reservations for all Lake George Islands campsites are typically made through the New York State reservation system (ReserveAmerica).

Address (Island Location): 33 Phantom In Narrows Is, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA

Regional DEC Office Phone: (518) 623-1200

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

Glen Island Group Ranger Station Phone: (518) 644-9696 (The local point of contact for Phantom Island)

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

Phantom Island Campground is an indispensable resource for New York State residents looking for a quintessential Adirondack camping experience without the extreme isolation of some of the more remote islands. Its suitability for local users stems from its perfect logistical balance: it provides the full, peaceful immersion of boat-access camping on a pristine island while maintaining close contact with the mainland via the nearby Glen Island Headquarters. This ensures that a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation remains both an adventurous and manageable undertaking. The unique features—the family-friendly beach, the sunnier campsites, and the dock access for sites #1 and #2—make securing a spot on Phantom Island a highly sought-after reservation. It truly represents the best of Lake George island life: clear waters, stunning mountain views, and the quiet satisfaction of having your own reserved piece of paradise, all within reach of the greater New York region. For locals, Phantom Island is a celebrated tradition and a treasured part of the Adirondack recreational legacy.