Best Tent Camping near South Glens Falls, NY
Tent campgrounds in the Lake George region near South Glens Falls offer island camping experiences and backcountry options. Lake George Islands features several tent-focused campgrounds including Long Island Group, Glen Island Group, and Narrow Island Group, all requiring boat access for an isolated camping experience. These established sites operate seasonally, typically from mid-May through early September, with some extending into October.
Primitive tent camping options exist at Ushers Road State Forest, approximately 25 miles south of South Glens Falls, where dispersed camping is permitted. Sites must be located at least 150 feet from trails and water sources. Most primitive sites lack amenities, requiring campers to pack in water and pack out waste. Fire rings may be present at established sites, but new fire pits should not be created. The terrain varies from flat to uneven, with limited site preparation, making proper tent placement important for comfort.
Island camping on Lake George provides a unique tent camping experience with sites accessible only by boat. The terrain on these islands can be challenging with uneven ground and limited flat spaces. According to one visitor at Long Island Group, "There were no leveled spaces whatsoever except for one platform per site." Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off offers more secluded options with riverside sites that provide natural soundscapes. One camper noted, "There is a river down the hill from the campsite which helps keep it fairly cool at night." Murphy Lake Leanto, accessible by hiking or biking, offers backcountry tent camping beside a lake but requires preparation for a challenging trek on technical trails with potential downfalls to navigate.












