A golden sunset over an island on Lake George – the “Queen of American Lakes” – promises serene evenings for campers.
Campgrounds in Lake George NY is a camper’s paradise nestled in the southern Adirondack Mountains

visitlakegeorge.com. Known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” Lake George spans about 32 miles in length and boasts nearly 186 islands scattered across its crystal-clear waters
visitadirondacks.com. The surrounding region is prime camping country, drawing seasoned nature enthusiasts and first-time campers alike each year
visitlakegeorge.com. With dozens of campgrounds in and around Lake George Village – from rustic tent sites under towering pines to upscale RV resorts with full amenities – campers have no shortage of places to stay
lakegeorge.com. This comprehensive guide will explore the various camping options (tent camping, RV parks, and cabin rentals), highlight popular amenities and local attractions, and offer expert tips to ensure your Lake George camping adventure is unforgettable and SEO-optimized!
Why Campgrounds in Lake George NY is Perfect for Camping
Lake George’s unique combination of breathtaking natural beauty and convenient recreation makes it an ideal destination for camping. Surrounded by the Adirondack Park’s protected wilderness, the lake offers campers a chance to experience stunning mountain vistas, lush forests, and calm waters right from their campsite. At the same time, you’re never far from modern conveniences and fun activities. Campers can spend their days swimming or paddling in the lake, hiking scenic trails, or exploring charming nearby towns, and then unwind by a campfire under the stars at night. It’s this blend of outdoor adventure and family-friendly attractions that has made Lake George one of the top camping destinations in the Northeast. In fact, according to traveler reviews, some of the best campgrounds in Lake George include well-known spots like Lake George RV Park, Lake George Escape Campground, and King Phillips Campground
tripadvisor.com – but there are options to suit every camping style and preference. Whether you crave a back-to-nature tent site or a resort-style RV park with all the bells and whistles, Lake George delivers.
Tent Campgrounds in Lake George NY
For those who want a more rustic, close-to-nature experience, tent camping in the Lake George area is hard to beat. There are numerous public and private campgrounds that cater to tent campers, offering wooded sites, picnic tables, fire pits, and easy access to the outdoors. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) operates several public campgrounds around Lake George, such as the popular Lake George Battleground Campground just 1/4 mile from Lake George Village. This campground features 68 tent and trailer sites plus hot showers and flush toilets, all within walking distance of the lake and local historic sites
lakegeorge.com. For an even more unique adventure, consider island camping on Lake George – the lake has over a hundred primitive campsites on various islands, which are accessible only by boat
dec.ny.gov. Imagine kayaking to your own private island campsite! (Note: these sites are run by DEC and often require advance reservations via ReserveAmerica, and no pets are allowed on the islands
Private Campgrounds in Lake George NY in the area also offer great options for tent camping, often with additional amenities. Many have secluded tent sites nestled in the woods or along the water. For example, Warrensburg Travel Park & Riverfront Campground (just minutes from Lake George Village) has forested tent sites by the Schroon River, giving you a quiet, natural setting with the bonus of on-site amenities like a pool and showers. If you prefer a tranquil, away-from-the-crowds atmosphere, you can find campgrounds a bit farther from town or even in the broader Adirondack Park that emphasize a peaceful wilderness experience. Wherever you pitch your tent, you’ll wake up to fresh mountain air, birdsong, and perhaps a stunning sunrise over the lake or river. Tent camping in Lake George truly lets you immerse yourself in the Adirondack outdoors – don’t forget to look up at night; the stargazing can be phenomenal on clear nights!

A kayaker arrives at a secluded lakeside tent site in the Adirondacks – Lake George offers both island campsites and shoreline tent camping for a true wilderness vibe.
Tips for Tent Campers: If you’re camping in a tent, be prepared for varied weather. Even in mid-summer, nights in the Adirondacks can be cool, so pack a warm sleeping bag or extra blankets. In late spring to early summer, bug spray and mesh netting are your friends (black flies and mosquitoes are most active from May through June). Many tent campgrounds are pet-friendly, but remember that dogs are not allowed at Lake George’s island campsites
dec.ny.gov. Also, practice Leave No Trace principles – keep your site clean and secure your food at night (this area is home to raccoons and the occasional black bear, so store food in your vehicle or a bear-resistant container to avoid unwanted wildlife encounters).
RV Camping in Lake George, NY
Campgrounds in Lake George NY is equally famous for its excellent RV camping opportunities. If you love camping with the comforts of your RV or camper, you’ll find numerous RV parks and resorts around Lake George that cater to everything from pop-up campers to big rig motorhomes. Full hook-ups (electric, water, sewer) are widely available at private RV parks, and many also offer pull-through sites for large RVs, cable TV, and Wi-Fi so you can enjoy modern amenities in the wilderness. One of the most renowned RV destinations is the Lake George RV Park, a 120+ acre resort-style campground that consistently ranks among the top family RV parks in the country. It offers tons of on-site activities (pools, spray pad, dog park, sports courts, entertainment) alongside its RV sites – truly providing a “camping resort” experience. Other popular RV-friendly spots include Lake George Escape (a large campground in Warrensburg along the Schroon River) and King Phillip’s Campground (conveniently located near Lake George Village), both known for their spacious sites and family amenities. These parks, along with several others around the region, often receive high praise from campers for their facilities and service
If you prefer a quieter RV experience, there are smaller privately-run campgrounds and public camp areas that can accommodate RVs (though public sites like Hearthstone Point or Rogers Rock are usually no-hookup). You might trade a few luxury amenities for a more peaceful environment. Medcalf Acres Riverfront Campground, for example, is a more low-key campground in the Adirondacks that welcomes RVs with full hookups and offers a beautiful riverfront beach and nature trails – perfect for those who want nature plus convenience. No matter which you choose, RV camping lets you enjoy Lake George with the ease of having your own kitchen, bathroom, and bed on wheels. It’s an especially great option for families and road-trippers exploring the Adirondack region.
Tips for RV Campers: Summer is peak season, so it’s wise to reserve your RV site well in advance, especially for weekends or holidays. Larger RV resorts can fill up quickly in July and August. When choosing a campground, check the site length and hook-up options to ensure your rig will fit. If you need 50-amp service or pull-through sites, filter your search for those features. Also, be prepared for mountain driving if coming from the south – the Adirondack Northway (I-87) is the main route and generally RV-friendly, but some campgrounds off the beaten path might require navigating smaller roads. Once you’re set up, take advantage of the on-site offerings at RV parks (many have shuttle services to local attractions, planned activities, and rental equipment like kayaks or bikes). Remember to follow campground guidelines regarding quiet hours and generator use – quiet time is typically after 10 PM (even in the great outdoors, nobody appreciates a noisy generator running all night). Finally, don’t move firewood long distances – New York has regulations to prevent the spread of tree-killing invasive insects; buy firewood locally around Lake George rather than bringing it from far away
Cabin Rentals and Glamping in Lake George
If you love the idea of camping minus the tent or RV, Lake George has you covered with plenty of cabin rentals, cottages, and glamping options. Many campgrounds in the area offer rustic cabins or cottages on-site, allowing you to enjoy the campground atmosphere and amenities while sleeping in a real bed with a roof over your head. These range from simple one-room camping cabins (essentially a wooden shelter with beds, requiring you to bring your own linens) to full-featured cottages and park model rentals that include kitchens and bathrooms. For example, Lake George Escape Campground and Lake George KOA both have cabin or cottage rentals in addition to campsites – perfect for families or groups where not everyone wants to “rough it.” Cabins often book quickly, so snag your reservation early if you plan to visit in peak season.
“Glamping” – or glamorous camping – has also become popular in the Adirondacks. You can find upscale canvas tents, yurts, or eco-friendly retreats near Lake George that provide hotel-like comfort in a natural setting. One such option is Adirondack Safari (in Warrensburg), where you stay in furnished canvas tents along the river, complete with beds and communal campfires, or Huttopia Adirondacks, a glamping resort offering tent and chalet rentals. These can be fantastic for a romantic getaway or for anyone seeking a unique experience without investing in camping gear. Plus, waking up in a cozy tent with the sounds of birds and a view of the woods might convert even a non-camper into an outdoor enthusiast!
Tips for Cabin/Glamping Stays: Even though you’re in a cabin or fancy tent, remember that you are still in a campground environment – you should bring along some basic camping gear like flashlights, camp chairs, and outdoor cooking supplies if your cabin doesn’t have a full kitchen. Check what’s provided (linens, cookware, etc.) to know what to pack. Cabins and glamping sites are ideal for fall and spring trips when nights are chilly; many have heaters or even fireplaces, extending the camping season. As with other accommodations, treat your rental with care: keep food sealed to avoid pests inside, and respect quiet hours and rules (just as you would at a campsite). Glamping tents especially require you to secure anything that might attract wildlife. Overall, cabins and glamping give you a comfy base camp while you explore all that Lake George has to offer.
Campground Amenities to Look For
One reason Lake George campgrounds are so popular is the abundance of amenities they offer to make your stay enjoyable. When choosing where to camp, consider what facilities and perks are important to you. Here are some common amenities you’ll find in the Lake George area campgrounds:
- Modern Restrooms & Showers: Nearly all established campgrounds (public and private) provide restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers. After a long day of hiking or swimming, a hot shower is a welcome luxury in the woods. For example, the Lake George Battleground Campground offers hot showers and even a trailer dump station for RVerslakegeorge.com.
- Hookups & Utilities: If you’re in an RV, look for full-hookup sites (water, electric, sewer). Tent campers might appreciate campgrounds with potable water spigots and dishwashing stations. Some campgrounds also have laundry facilities which can be handy for longer stays. Wi-Fi and cable TV are bonuses at many private campgrounds – Lake George RV Park, for instance, provides free Wi-Fi, and most sites in that park have cable TV connections.
- Camp Store & Rentals: Forgot the marshmallows or need ice? Most private campgrounds have an on-site camp store selling essentials like groceries, firewood, ice, and camping gear. Some even rent out sports equipment, kayaks, or bikes. It’s super convenient to have a store a short walk from your site.
- Swimming & Recreation: Summer in Lake George can get warm, and what better way to cool off than a swim? Many campgrounds feature swimming pools or kiddie splash pads. Others are on the lake or river and have beach areas or swimming access. A few, like Lake George Escape, offer both pool and river tubing opportunities. Additionally, look for playgrounds, sports courts (basketball, volleyball), game rooms/arcades, and even mini-golf courses on-site – these are great for keeping kids (and adults) entertained right at the campground.
- Events & Activities: The larger camp resorts often have a schedule of activities such as outdoor movie nights, live music, bingo, craft workshops for kids, hayrides, and more. For example, Warrensburg Travel Park advertises live bands on weekends in summer and other activities that create a fun community vibe for campers. If you enjoy socializing and entertainment, a campground with planned activities is a plus. On the flip side, if you prefer peace and quiet, a smaller campground with fewer amenities might suit you better.
When researching, check the campground’s website or reviews to get a sense of cleanliness and quality of amenities. The best campgrounds in Lake George tend to excel in customer service and maintenance of their facilities – factors that can make your stay comfortable. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a pet-friendly campground (look for dog parks or “pet stations” on-site) or you absolutely need a campground with a boat launch and docks for your boating adventures, you’re likely to find a Lake George campground that meets your needs.
Attractions & Activities for Campers in the Lake George Area
One of the greatest benefits of camping in Lake George is your proximity to a huge variety of activities and attractions. There’s something for every type of traveler, whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a family with kids, or a history buff. Here are some highlights of what you can do while camping in Lake George:
- Enjoy the Lake Itself: Lake George’s clear waters are the star attraction. Campers can spend days on the lake swimming, boating, or fishing. Many campgrounds have waterfront access or are a short drive from public beaches. You can rent a boat or kayak from local marinas and explore 32-mile-long Lake George – perhaps even dock at one of the island campsites for a picnic. Fishing is popular here; the lake is home to bass, trout, salmon, and morelakegeorgecampground.com, so bring a rod (just ensure you have a NY fishing license if required). Don’t miss a classic Lake George boat cruise – the Lake George Steamboat Company offers scenic cruises on historic paddlewheel boats, a great way to see the lake and learn some history.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: The Adirondack Mountains offer excellent hiking opportunities all around Lake George. From easy nature trails to challenging mountain climbs, there are options for all skill levelslakegeorgecampground.com. Popular hikes for campers include Shelving Rock Falls (a short hike to a pretty waterfall and swimming hole), Buck Mountain (a moderate hike with fantastic views of the lake from the summit), and parts of the Tongue Mountain Range Trail (which offers great vistas and chances to spot wildlife like deer or even bald eagles). If you’re staying on the east side of the lake, check out Sleeping Beauty Mountain or Black Mountain trails. Always bring a trail map, water, and proper footwear when hiking, and let someone know your plans. The effort is worth it when you catch those panoramic lake views from up high!
- Beach Time and Water Sports: When you camp in Lake George, you’re never far from a beach. Million Dollar Beach in Lake George Village is a large public beach with lifeguards, restrooms, and a boat launch nearby – perfect for a day of swimming and sunbathing. Many smaller town beaches (like Bolton Landing’s Rogers Memorial Park Beach or Hague Town Beach) are scattered along the shores as well. For thrill-seekers, Lake George offers plenty of water sports: you can go jet skiing, water skiing, tubing, paddleboarding, or even parasailing high above the lake. There are rental shops and outfitters in town that will set you up with gear or tours. After a day of water fun, treat yourself to ice cream in the village – a classic Lake George summer tradition.
- Family Attractions and Local Highlights: If you have kids (or are a kid at heart), you’ll find a variety of attractions to mix into your camping trip. Just south of Lake George Village is Six Flags Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor, a theme park and water park that can be a full day of excitement with roller coasters and waterslides. In Lake George Village, you can visit the Fort William Henry Museum (an 18th-century British fort important to colonial history) to watch live musket demonstrations and learn about the area’s role in the French & Indian War. Other popular stops include the Adirondack Winery (for adults to sample local wines), mini-golf courses, go-kart tracks, and the House of Frankenstein Wax Museum for some kitschy fun. If you’re camping in early June, you might catch the annual Americade motorcycle rally or in September the Adirondack Nationals Car Show – huge events that draw enthusiasts from all overlakegeorgecampground.comlakegeorgecampground.com. There’s always something happening around Lake George, especially in summer. (For more ideas on activities, see our detailed post on The Thrills and Activities While Camping in Lake George, NY which covers boating, hiking, local attractions, and even winter fun.)
- Explore the Adirondack Park: Lake George is a gateway to the broader Adirondack Park, the largest park in the continental U.S. If you’re camped here for a while, consider taking a day trip to explore other gems of the region. You could drive up to Adirondack High Peaks region (about 1-2 hours north) for a taste of bigger mountains and wilderness, visit Fort Ticonderoga at the northern end of Lake George for more history, or head into nearby towns like Lake Placid (site of two Winter Olympics) if you’re up for a scenic ride. Even a simple scenic drive around Lake George (on Routes 9N and 22) offers lovely views, with opportunities to stop at overlooks like Prospect Mountain (which has a roadway up to a summit view) or Lake George Battlefield Park for historical interpretive trails. Campers who love nature photography will find endless inspiration – dawn mist on the lake, sunset over the mountains, and wildlife like loons, wild turkeys, or maybe a shy fox along a back road.
As you can see, camping in Lake George is about so much more than just sitting around a campfire (although that’s wonderful too!). Whether you fill your days with outdoor adventures or sample the local entertainment and dining (Lake George Village has lots of restaurants, from pizza and burgers to lakeside dining with a view), you’ll never be bored. The ability to have such diverse activities at your fingertips is a big reason Lake George stands out as a camping destination. You can truly customize your trip – spend one day in your swimsuit and flip-flops on the lake, and the next day in hiking boots conquering a mountain trail.
Tips for an Unforgettable Lake George Camping Trip
To wrap up this guide, here are some insider tips and important considerations that will help you make the most of your Lake George camping experience:
- Plan and Reserve Early: Lake George is popular in summer, so if you’re aiming for July or August weekends, book your campsite or cabin as early as possible. Many campgrounds start taking reservations in January or February for the upcoming season, and state-run campgrounds can be reserved 9 months in advance on the ReserveAmerica system. Popular spots (like island campsites or waterfront RV sites at private campgrounds) may sell out quickly. Early planning also gives you more choices of site locations (for example, if you want a lakeside or shady site).
- Pack for All Kinds of Weather: The Adirondack region can have unpredictable weather. A sunny hot day can be followed by an evening thunderstorm, and temperatures can swing – a 85°F (29°C) afternoon might drop to 55°F (13°C) overnight. Bring rain gear (ponchos, canopy or tarps for your campsite) and warm layers for the evenings. If you’re camping in spring or fall, be prepared for chilly nights (a frost in late September isn’t unheard of). Having a mix of clothing and bedding will keep you comfortable so a cold snap or rain shower doesn’t dampen your fun.
- Be Bug-Savvy: As mentioned before, insects are part of the Adirondack ecosystem. In the late spring/early summer, tiny black flies can be a nuisance during the day, especially near streams or wet areas, and mosquitoes come out particularly at dusk. Pack insect repellent (look for one with DEET or picaridin) and consider bringing a screened tent or canopy for your picnic table so you can enjoy evenings outside bug-free. By mid-July and into August, the bug situation improves significantly, and by fall you’ll hardly notice any. Ticks can also be present in grassy or wooded areas, so use insect repellent on hikes and do a quick tick check at night (especially on kids and pets).
- Firewood and Campfires: Sitting around a crackling campfire is one of the joys of camping, and most Lake George campgrounds permit fires in designated fire rings. However, never bring in firewood from outside the region. New York State law prohibits bringing firewood from more than 50 miles away to prevent invasive pestsdec.ny.gov. Instead, buy firewood locally (most campgrounds sell it or there are roadside vendors). Use only the provided fire ring and keep fires small and manageable. And of course, never leave a fire unattended – always fully extinguish your campfire before bedtime or when leaving the site. (Tip: Dry kindling can be scarce after rain, so pack a little dry newspaper or fire starter logs to help get your fire going.)
- Know the Rules & Respect Wildlife: Each campground will have its own set of rules, but common ones include quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM (so everyone can enjoy the natural peace), leash requirements for pets, and restrictions on things like outside firewood, washing dishes at water spigots, etc. Pay attention to any posted guidelines upon check-in. Also, keep your campsite clean – food scraps and trash should be disposed of properly (use the dumpsters or trash cans provided, or pack it out). This will help avoid attracting animals. Black bears are not extremely common right around the busy Lake George south basin, but they are present in the Adirondacks. There have been instances of bears raiding coolers or trash where campers were careless. Store all food, toiletries, and scented items in your vehicle or a secure container – never in your tent. If you’re in the backcountry or island camping, use bear-proof canisters or hang food packs high in a tree. Admire wildlife from a distance and do not feed them (feeding ducks or chipmunks may seem harmless, but it can create bad habits and unhealthy conditions for the animals).
- Local Regulations and Safety: If you’re camping at a DEC-run campground or on state land, familiarize yourself with their regulations. For example, DEC island campsites strictly forbid bringing petsdec.ny.gov and have a carry-in, carry-out policy for garbage. Quiet hours and generator hour limits are enforced in state campgroundsdec.ny.govdec.ny.gov. On the water, note that Lake George has an aquatic invasive species inspection program – if you bring a boat, you must have it inspected/washed at a checkpoint before launching (to protect the lake’s water quality). Always practice water safety: wear life jackets when boating and be mindful of weather forecasts since sudden storms can whip up waves on the lake. Finally, while the Lake George area has good cell coverage near town, in more remote spots cell service can be spotty. It’s a good idea to have a paper map or download maps for offline use. In emergencies, dial 911 – the local responders are familiar with campgrounds and parks in the area. For non-emergencies, the campground office or park ranger station can assist you (for example, if you have a late check-in, many have procedures to accommodate that).
- Explore Local Towns & Businesses: Part of the fun of camping here is enjoying the local community. Lake George Village and nearby towns like Bolton Landing, Warrensburg, and Chestertown have farmers’ markets, quaint shops, and festivals worth checking out. If you need a break from camp cooking, you can find everything from casual eateries to gourmet restaurants within a short drive. A rainy day might be the perfect chance to visit a museum (the Lake George Association’s Discovery Center or the Adirondack Experience in Blue Mountain Lake an hour away) or to simply relax at a local café. Supporting local businesses not only enhances your trip but also contributes to the Adirondack community that makes visitors feel welcome.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth and enjoyable camping trip. Lake George has been a beloved vacation spot for generations, and when you camp here, you become part of that tradition. From the practical (like remembering to bring a flashlight) to the profound (like taking time to watch the sunset over the lake), the little things can make a big difference in your experience.
Finding Your Perfect Lake George Campground
With so many options available, the final step is choosing the campground that’s right for you. Start by deciding what type of experience you want: Are you looking for a lively campground with lots of amenities and family activities, or a quiet retreat in nature? Do you need full RV hookups, or are you pitching a tent and happy with just the basics? How close do you want to be to Lake George Village or to the lake itself? Make a checklist of your priorities (e.g., waterfront site, pet-friendly, hiking trails nearby, pool for the kids, etc.) and use it to compare campgrounds.
If you want to be in the heart of the action, a campground near Lake George Village (at the south end of the lake) is ideal – you’ll be minutes from restaurants, shops, and attractions. On the other hand, if you prefer solitude, you might camp further north or west of the lake, where you’re surrounded more by wilderness (the trade-off is a longer drive if you do want to visit the village or theme parks). For families, campgrounds like Lake George RV Park or Lake George Escape offer a complete package of activities, which can be incredibly convenient – kids can stay busy with paddle-boats or mini-golf on-site while parents relax. If your family loves tubing and swimming in a river, a campground on the Schroon River (like Warrensburg Travel Park or Lake George Riverview) could be a great fit. If your main goal is hiking, maybe stay closer to the trailheads – a campground on the east side of the lake puts you near the Shelving Rock and Sleeping Beauty trails, whereas the west side is closer to Tongue Mountain and Crane Mountain areas.
Also consider the size and atmosphere of the campground. Bigger campgrounds have more facilities and people; smaller ones might offer more peace and the feeling of being “away from it all.” Read reviews from recent campers to get a sense of cleanliness, security, and friendliness of the staff. Sometimes a personal recommendation or review detail (like “Site 12 has amazing sunset views of the lake” or “Bathrooms are spotless and cleaned twice a day”) can be the deciding factor.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to contact the campground with questions before you book. The staff can often suggest the best area of their campground for your needs (near playground, or riverside, or shaded, etc.), and clarify any policies (like how late check-in is allowed, or if they have quiet hours strictly enforced).
With research and a bit of planning, you’ll find the perfect spot to call home under the Adirondack stars. Then all that’s left is to count down the days until you’re roasting s’mores by the campfire, with the sounds of nature around you and the excitement of a Lake George adventure ahead!
Camping in Lake George, NY truly offers the best of all worlds – scenic nature, fun recreation, and comfortable accommodations – all in one destination. By following this guide, utilizing smart SEO strategies (like targeting relevant long-tail keywords and providing valuable, in-depth content), and preparing for your trip with our tips, you’ll be well on your way to an epic camping experience. So pack your gear, plan your itinerary, and get ready to make memories by the lake. Happy camping in Lake George! 🏕️🌲🔥