Sunny Island Campground #1, Bolton Landing, NY

Introduction / Overview

For New York residents dreaming of an exclusive and secluded outdoor escape,

Sunny Island Campground #1

on Lake George offers one of the most unique experiences available within the Adirondack Park. Located within the popular Glen Island Group—part of the sprawling Lake George Islands Campsites managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)—Sunny Island is distinctively a

one-campsite island

. This means that when you book this site, the entire island is yours for the duration of your stay, granting an unparalleled level of privacy in one of the state's most beloved vacation destinations.

This boat-access-only campground is a true gem, celebrated for its tranquil setting and breathtaking vistas. It combines the rustic authenticity of New York State camping with the luxurious feeling of having a private island retreat. It is perfectly suited for a small group or family seeking a quiet sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of mainland life, where the soundtrack is strictly the lapping of water and the chirping of Adirondack wildlife.

Location and Accessibility

Sunny Island is strategically located in "The Narrows," the stunning, island-dotted mid-section of Lake George, and is officially listed with the address:

31 Sunny, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA

. Situated just northeast of the main Glen Island, it is within the heart of the most scenic part of the lake.

Accessibility is a key part of the island camping experience—Sunny Island is

accessible only by boat

. Campers must travel to the island using their own vessel, whether it's a small motorboat, canoe, or kayak. Before heading to the island, campers must first register at the Glen Island Headquarters (Ranger Station) to secure their permit. The proximity to Glen Island is a significant logistical benefit, making the initial check-in process smooth and keeping you close to the central support facilities.

One of the most highly praised aspects of its location is the spectacular scenery. The provided customer review highlights this perfectly, noting that the island is viewed with the majestic

Tongue Mt range in the background

. This ensures that your view from the campsite is one of rugged, untouched Adirondack beauty across the clear waters of Lake George.

Services Offered

As a DEC island campsite, Sunny Island #1 provides the necessary infrastructure for a comfortable and safe outdoor experience while maintaining a primitive, self-sufficient camping style. All Lake George Islands campsites generally offer the following:

Exclusive Campsite: As a one-campsite island, you receive total privacy. The occupancy limit for the site is typically
6 individuals and up to 2 tents
.
Boat Docking: The island is equipped with a
shore dock
for at least one boat, providing secure mooring for your primary vessel and a convenient landing point for all of your gear and supplies.
Rustic Camping Facilities: The site includes a designated
fireplace or fire pit
for campfires and cooking, along with a
picnic table
for dining and meal preparation.
Sanitation: A dedicated
toilet facility
(usually a pit privy) is provided on the island for the exclusive use of the campers at site #1, ensuring basic hygiene.
Tent Platform: Information suggests Sunny Island has a
platform
, a feature which provides a leveled, dry base for setting up a tent, greatly enhancing comfort during your stay.
Convenient Supply Access: Being
just northeast of Glen Island
, it is incredibly
ideal for someone who wants to pop over to Glen Island for ice cream treats and supplies
from the General Store. This keeps your essential runs quick and simple.

Features / Highlights

Sunny Island Campground #1 is distinguished by several unique features that elevate the traditional Lake George camping trip into an unforgettable experience for New York locals:

Unmatched Privacy and Exclusivity: The most significant highlight is the rare opportunity to camp on a
nice one campsite island
. This unparalleled privacy allows you to fully disconnect and enjoy the serenity of the Adirondacks without close neighbors, making it perfect for honeymooners, small families, or groups seeking solitude.
Stunning Natural Backdrops: The views from the island are spectacular, featuring the dramatic slopes of the
Tongue Mountain Range in the background
and the crystal-clear waters of Lake George surrounding you. This setting provides an incredible backdrop for photography, painting, or simply relaxing by the fire.
Proximity to The Glen Island Hub: Being close to Mohican Island and the main Glen Island provides a perfect balance of isolation and convenience. Quick trips to the Ranger Station or the
General Store
for ice, firewood, or a last-minute item are effortless, simplifying the logistical challenges of island camping.
Ideal for Water Activities: With a private dock, the site is perfect for all manner of boating, swimming, and paddling. You can launch your canoe or kayak directly from your island shore to explore the nearby islands and coves of The Narrows.
Fishing and Hiking Access: Campers have access to Lake George’s excellent cold- and warm-water fishing opportunities. While the island itself is small, boating opens up access to miles of
hiking trails
in the surrounding Adirondack mountains, offering active pursuits just a short trip away.

Contact Information

As part of the DEC’s Lake George Islands Campsites, the contact information is centralized for the Glen Island Group headquarters which oversees Sunny Island.

Address (Island Location):

31 Sunny, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, USA

Regional DEC Office Phone (Reservations/General Information):

(518) 623-1200

Mobile Phone (DEC General/Reservations Line):

+1 518-623-1200

Note: Due to its unique "single-site island" status, reservations for Sunny Island #1 are highly competitive and must be made well in advance through the official New York State reservation system.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Sunny Island Campground #1 represents the pinnacle of Adirondack island camping and is particularly suitable for New York residents seeking an unparalleled and memorable vacation. Unlike larger, communal campgrounds, Sunny Island offers a private, exclusive haven—a truly rare commodity in a popular recreational area like Lake George. The combination of complete solitude on your own private island, coupled with the security and convenience of being close to the Glen Island Ranger Station and General Store, provides the ideal blend of rugged nature and practical comfort.

The stunning natural beauty, from the clear water surrounding the dock to the picturesque view of the

Tongue Mt range

, ensures a deeply restorative experience. For those who own a boat or wish to rent one, this location is a must-book destination, providing an authentic slice of the Adirondacks that feels uniquely yours. It is a perfect opportunity for New Yorkers to create lasting memories in a setting of unmatched beauty and privacy.