New York State by Aaron Starmer

Author:Aaron Starmer
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: eBook ISBN: 9780897327602
Publisher: Menasha Ridge Press
Published: 2007-11-15T00:00:00+00:00

THIS SCENIC CAMPGROUND is located at the western end of Fourth Lake, a central part of the Fulton Chain of lakes. The Fulton Chain is a series of connected lakes that begins at Old Forge Pond and ends at Eighth Lake. The first five lakes stretch unbroken for 14 miles. Old Forge Pond and Sixth through Eighth lakes are separated from this main expanse by a series of channels. Steamboat inventor Robert Fulton envisioned connecting the lakes and creating an “Adirondack Canal.” Although the canal was never built, the lakes still bear Fulton’s name.

The lakes were eventually dammed and connected to provide flood control, recreational opportunities, and power in Lyons Falls. The shores are dotted with numerous summer “camps,” or private residences, and boathouses—not mere storage buildings for boats, but actual homes ranging from quaint cottages to luxurious estates dating back to the Gilded Age. Though the shoreline is certainly developed, the area is heavily wooded. Views from the lakes reveal rocky outcroppings and a vast, serene wilderness that have drawn outdoors enthusiasts to this region for generations.

First known as Deer Island, then Big Island, the name eventually changed to Alger Island after its longtime owners Mort and Ollie Alger. The state acquired the island in 1950 and began to build lean-tos in the 1960s. Each site is heavily wooded with evergreens and situated a stone’s throw from the water’s edge. Sites along the northern shore face the lakes’ main channel, so boat tours, waterskiers, and Jet Skis are occasional disturbances during the day. A charming lighthouse is also visible from the northern shore. Sites on the southern shore border a small inlet and provide more seclusion. Access is limited to registered campers, and isolation from the mainland ensures privacy and security.

Campers should be aware that the only way to get to the island is by boat. A state-owned boat launch is located at the Fourth Lake picnic area. This picnic area also serves as the Alger Island registration and permitting station. Boats launched at this facility are limited to car-top boats such as kayaks; motorboats can be launched from the public launch in Inlet. For campers who don’t own boats, numerous outfitters along NY 28 not only rent boats but also offer rafting packages. The popularity of this campground is evident; most sites are fully booked during July and August, with the most popular sites being booked a year in advance.

Hiking at the campground is limited to a perimeter trail, but access to the central region of the Adirondacks provides miles of hiking opportunities. Hiking terrain in the region is generally hilly and rugged but not mountainous. Most of the surrounding area is heavily forested and within the protected Forest Preserve Area of the Adirondack State Park. Trails are often old logging roads that have become overgrown as they transform back into wilderness. Large, expansive views are limited, but numerous lakes, ponds, swamps, and streams present surprises around every corner. Most trails are can be done as day hikes and can be reached from NY 12 and NY 28.

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