Phantom Island Campground #4 (dock), Bolton Landing, NY

Introduction / Overview: Your Adirondack Island Basecamp on Lake George

For New York State residents yearning for a truly unique and refreshing camping experience, the islands of Lake George offer an unforgettable retreat. Among the most sought-after locations is Phantom Island Campground #4 (dock), a distinct campsite nestled in the spectacular Adirondack setting of the lake’s islands. This is not a traditional drive-up campground; it is a coveted boat-in destination that defines the essence of Lake George island life.

Phantom Island itself is a small, four-site island managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), forming part of the popular Glen Island Group, also known as The Narrows. The island’s location is a significant draw, situated just across the channel from the main Glen Island—the operational hub for the area, which features the ranger station and a general store. This proximity offers a great balance: the serenity of island camping combined with relatively easy access to essential facilities.

Campsite #4 specifically is noted for facing Glen Island, placing you directly in view of the main island’s activity, and is generally described as a nice, open, and sunny spot. It’s an ideal choice for campers who enjoy the atmosphere of the lake and the occasional sight of passing boats, placing them at the heart of the bustling, beautiful Narrows. Like all island sites, it is designed for a rustic experience while providing necessary infrastructure for comfort and safety.

Location and Accessibility: Boat-In Camping Near Bolton Landing

Phantom Island Campground is officially located within the Lake George Islands camping network, which is administered from the Bolton Landing area. The general location is:

Narrows Island, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA

The reference to "Narrows Island" generally places it within the Glen Island Group, which is located in The Narrows section of Lake George.

Accessibility is strictly limited to boat-in access. There are no bridges or ferries to Phantom Island. Campers must transport all of their gear, food, and supplies via personal watercraft (powerboat, canoe, kayak) or by arranging a water taxi service from a local marina near Bolton Landing. While there is no designated parking lot on the island, campers can typically arrange to park their vehicles and launch their boats from a private marina on the mainland for a fee.

The site’s proximity to Glen Island is a key logistical advantage. Campers must first check in at the Glen Island Headquarters upon arrival.

Services Offered

Phantom Island Campground #4 provides the standard amenities found at NYS DEC island campsites on Lake George, ensuring a comfortable yet traditionally rustic camping experience.

Shore Dock: The site comes equipped with a shore dock, capable of mooring one boat.
Picnic Table: A designated table is provided for meals and gathering.
Fireplace/Charcoal Burner: A fireplace or fire pit is available for campfires. Fires must be built in the designated area, using only dead and down wood found on the ground, or firewood purchased locally to prevent the spread of invasive pests.
Pit Privy: A shared toilet facility is available on the island, providing necessary sanitary amenities.
Refuse Management: Campers contribute to the maintenance of the island's cleanliness through a small nightly refuse surcharge collected upon booking.
Nearby General Store: Although not directly on Phantom Island, the close proximity to Glen Island means a ranger station and a general store for basic supplies are just a short boat ride away.
Occupancy Limit: Campsites are limited to a maximum of six individuals and two tents.

Features / Highlights

Phantom Island Campground #4 boasts several attractive features that appeal to New York State's local outdoor enthusiasts:

Prime Location: Located in The Narrows section, the site provides a perfect vantage point for watching boat traffic in the busy channel between Phantom and Glen Islands.
Close to Amenities: Being situated directly across from Glen Island offers easy access to the main ranger station and the only general store in the island group, which is a major convenience for island campers.
Sunny Exposure: Campsite #4 is known for being an open and sunny spot, great for sunbathing, drying gear, and enjoying bright days.
Small, Sandy Beach Access: Phantom Island features a small, shallow, sandy beach area (often located between sites #1 and #3) that is ideal for small children and shallow water entry.
Water Activities Mecca: The location is perfect for fishing, swimming (in designated areas), canoeing, kayaking, and power boating across the vast 32-mile length of Lake George.
Rustic Charm: The site provides a classic Adirondack tent camping experience with the added novelty of private boat access and waterfront views.

Contact Information

Phantom Island Campground is part of the Glen Island Group of the Lake George Islands camping system, operated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC). For general inquiries, reservations, and information, the following contact details are applicable:

Address (Operational Area / Mailing):

The official operational center for this group is Glen Island Headquarters (Mail: PO Box 993, Bolton Landing, NY 12814-0993).

Regional DEC Office Phone:

(518) 623-1200

Glen Island Group Headquarters Phone:

(518) 644-9696

Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to nine months in advance through the state’s online reservation system or via the Reserve America Call Center: 1 (800) 456-2267.

Conclusion: Why Phantom Island Campground #4 is Suitable for New York Locals

Phantom Island Campground #4 offers a distinctive and highly desirable outdoor experience that perfectly caters to the New York local looking to maximize their time off. Its location on Lake George places it within a manageable drive from many parts of the state, yet the boat-in access immediately transports visitors to a world away from the city.

For local New Yorkers, this campsite is the ideal blend of adventure and convenience. It offers the adventure of island camping, navigating the pristine waters of Lake George, and sleeping under the stars with a panoramic waterfront view. It offers convenience through its strategic position just a stone's throw from Glen Island’s general store and ranger presence. This setup means families and friends can enjoy the seclusion of an island site while maintaining access to a few key mainland amenities.

By choosing Phantom Island Campground #4, residents secure a front-row seat to the beauty of the Adirondacks and the beloved Lake George boating culture. It’s an authentic, state-managed camping experience—complete with campfire cooking and stunning sunrises—that highlights the best of New York’s natural resources and provides an essential, refreshing escape from the daily grind. Book your boat-in escape early to secure this popular waterfront retreat.