A popular 6.6-mile round trip hike to a 2334-foot summit with sweeping views of Lake George and the surrounding mountains. The trail gains about 2000 feet of elevation so it is a real workout and best suited for families with older kids who enjoy a challenge. The summit has wide open rock slabs perfect for spreading out a snack. On a clear day you can see all the way to Vermont. This is one of the most rewarding day hikes in the Lake George region.
One of the most popular state campgrounds in the Adirondacks right on the shore of Lake George. The 251 sites are shaded by tall pines and many sit directly on the waterfront. Kids can swim at the campground beach, fish from shore, and explore nearby hiking trails. Its location just two miles south of Lake George village makes it convenient for day trips to shops and attractions. Reserve months in advance for summer weekends because this one books up fast.
Camping on one of the islands in Lake George is a bucket-list Adirondack experience. Over 300 islands dot the lake and the DEC maintains campsites on many of them accessible only by boat. Kids are thrilled by the adventure of paddling or boating to a private island campsite surrounded by clear water and mountain views. Sites include fire rings and pit toilets. The Glen Island, Long Island, and Narrow Island groups are the most popular. You will need your own boat or canoe to reach the sites.
The most popular public beach on Lake George with a wide sandy shoreline, lifeguards on duty, and crystal-clear mountain water that stays shallow for a long way out. Kids can splash in the roped swimming area while parents relax on the sand with views of the surrounding Adirondack peaks. Changing rooms, restrooms, and a snack bar are right on site. The beach gets crowded on hot summer weekends so arriving early is the move.
The largest marble cave entrance in the eastern US sits at the center of this family-friendly nature park. Self-guided trails wind past caves, waterfalls, and geological formations that kids find genuinely fascinating. The stone bridge itself is massive and the gorge below it is dramatic. A gem mining sluice keeps younger kids busy for a long time. Seasonal activities include snowshoe trails in winter. It is a privately run park so expect a polished experience with good signage and clean restrooms.
A 157-acre preserve managed by the Lake George Land Conservancy with gentle trails winding through meadows and forests above the southern tip of Lake George. The 1.5-mile loop trail is perfect for younger hikers and offers nice views of the lake from several overlooks. Wildflowers fill the meadows in spring and early summer. It is a quieter alternative to the more crowded Lake George trails and a great spot for a nature walk with kids who are not ready for a big summit hike.
Drive or hike to the 2030-foot summit for jaw-dropping panoramic views of Lake George, the Adirondacks, and the Green Mountains of Vermont. The scenic toll road gets you most of the way up and a short shuttle ride or 0.6-mile walk reaches the top. Kids love running around the summit area and picking out landmarks below. The hiking trail from the base is 3.2 miles and a solid workout for older kids. Either way, the views from the top are absolutely worth it.
A state campground on the northern end of Lake George with direct lake access, a sandy beach, and outstanding cliff views. The 332 tent and trailer sites are spread through a wooded area and many have lake views. Kids love the beach and the boat launch makes it easy to get out on the water. The nearby Rogers Rock cliff face is a striking backdrop and a popular spot for experienced rock climbers. The campground is quieter and less crowded than those near Lake George village.
A short half-mile trail through the woods that leads to a stunning waterfall tumbling over a wide rock shelf. The trail is easy enough for younger kids and the payoff is huge. The falls drop about 50 feet and in spring they are roaring. Kids love climbing around the rocks at the base (carefully). You can extend the hike by continuing to the Lake George shoreline at Shelving Rock Bay for a swim in the warm months.
A moderately challenging 7-mile round trip hike that rewards with one of the best views in the Lake George region from open rock ledges at the summit. The trail passes through quiet forest and the summit clearing feels like your own private lookout. Kids who are strong hikers will love the accomplishment of reaching the top. The last stretch is steeper but not technical. Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch with a panoramic view of Lake George spread out below.