Tent campsites near Victory Mills, New York provide access to the eastern Adirondack foothills and southern Lake George region. The area features rolling terrain with mixed hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet above sea level. Campgrounds in this region experience typical northeastern seasonal patterns with warm summers, colorful autumns, and the possibility of significant spring mud conditions on trails and forest access roads.
What to do
Kayaking and boating access: Lake George Islands offer unique island camping experiences requiring watercraft. At Glen Island Group — Lake George Islands, campers need "a decent sized boat with a gas outboard to get there," according to Justin B., who adds that there's "great fishing, lots of fun to be had on the water and quiet peaceful evening by the campfire."
Winter camping and hiking: For experienced winter campers, the region provides challenging cold-weather opportunities. Miccal M. described camping at Stratton Pond Shelter: "Spent the weekend here on the last weekend of Feb. 2024. Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods with only the people I hiked in with. It was great! The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter."
Trail exploration: The region contains interconnected trail networks suitable for day hiking and mountain biking. At Ushers Road State Forest, bicycle-friendly nature trails extend in multiple directions, though travelers should note that according to one visitor, "The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall."
What campers like
Private island camping: Secluded island sites on Lake George provide exceptional privacy. One camper at Narrow Island Group — Lake George Islands advised: "Check the weather before your stay- you may be able to swap for a site on the opposite side of the island if you get an idea of where the winds will be coming from. Don't under estimate this tip."
Holiday celebrations: Lake George offers special seasonal experiences. Erin H. described July 4th at one of the islands: "We went for July 4th and got front row seats for their fireworks over the lake from our private shore. It was beautiful. Spent the rest of our time kayaking, swimming, hiking in the mountains."
Family-run operations: The smaller campgrounds in the Victory Mills region often provide personalized camping experiences. Elizabeth P. noted about Stony Creek Family Campground: "It's a nice family ran campground. We love it here and plan to come back!"
What you should know
Shelter availability concerns: During peak season, backcountry shelters may fill quickly. Daniel S. warns about Seth Warner Shelter: "IF you arrive late and there is no more room in the shelter use your tent or hammock in one of the many flat perfect spots for either. I arrived at sunset and met some awesome folks and had a fire."
Boat noise disruptions: Island campers should expect motorboat traffic. Rebecca E. cautions: "Warning: lots of boat motor noise esp on summer weekends which sadly dilutes the otherwise 'cut off' feeling" at Narrow Island Group. She also reminds visitors to "PLEASE do not pollute the lake with soaps or detergents of ANY kind."
Weather preparedness: Lake George's open water creates variable conditions. Justin B. notes that while camping on Glen Island provides "spectacular views and pristine waters," there are "definitely no amenities other than an outhouse," meaning campers must prepare for changing weather without shelter options.
Tips for camping with families
Island reservation timing: Lake George Islands sites require advance planning. Rebecca E. advises: "Book 9 months in advance & good luck. Last minute cancellations are a common occurance though."
Wildlife precautions: Protect food supplies from wildlife encounters. In the backcountry shelters, Daniel S. recommends: "Hang your food! Watch for bears and coons."
Site selection at Lake George: When camping with children, consider site location carefully. At Long Island Group — Lake George Islands, Anastasiia T. notes: "We had a great spot on Long Island! Beautiful view, chill atmosphere, easy boat parking on the slip."
Tips from RVers
Site conditions assessment: RVers report variable site quality at some locations. Ryan observed at Long Island Group: "There were no leveled space whatsoever (except for one platform per site...but where would a second tent go? On the horrible ground beside it."
Transportation logistics: Island camping with RV equipment requires planning. Sam B. loves the Narrow Island Group so much that they "almost feel like I shouldn't say it's amazing," indicating the need to secure transportation and site reservations well in advance for campers bringing substantial gear.
Platform limitations: Some tent campsites near Victory Mills have tent platforms with size constraints. Ryan noted that when multiple tents are needed, securing appropriate space can be challenging, stating the wooden platforms accommodate one tent while any additional tents would need to be placed "on the horrible ground beside it."