Lake George FAQs
Lake George is a 32-mile long, pristine body of water in the Adirondack Park. Nicknamed the “Queen of American Lakes”, it is widely known for its crystal-clear waters and a wide variety of lake activities. From swimming, paddling and fishing to boating, parasailing and sightseeing cruises, Drake’s Lakeside Cabins is proud to offer our guests waterfront access to this fresh-water playground.
For those visiting the lake for the first time, you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Lake George below.
The lake spans 45 square miles. It is 32 miles long, ranges from 1 to 3 miles in width, and reaches depths of nearly 200 feet. Although the average depth is 70 feet.
Lake George is widely considered one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the United States. Its pristine, mountain-fed waters hold New York State’s highest water quality rating of Class AA-Special, meaning it is safe to swim in and literally clean enough to drink.
Lake George water temperatures range from the low 30s°F in winter to the low 70s°F in summer. Summer surface temperatures typically peak in July and August, reaching 70°F to 75°F.
Lake George has several public beaches, including Million Dollar Beach, Shepard Park Beach and Ushers Park Beach in Lake George Village, Roger Memorial Park Beach and Veterans Memorial Park Beach in Bolton Landing, and Hague Town Beach in Hague. Guests staying at Drake’s Lakeside Cabins can also enjoy our private beach on Lake George.
Yes, motorized boats are permitted on Lake George. However, all motorized watercraft 18-feet or longer, or mechanically propelled by motors of 10 HP or greater, are required to register with the Lake George Park Commission and display a decal.
You can rent a variety of boats, including pontoons, deck boats, speed boats, fishing boats and jet skis from several marinas, including Chic’s Marina and F.R. Smith & Son’s Marina in Bolton Landing, Lake George Boat Rentals in Lake George, or Yankee Boating Center and Little Harbor Boat Rentals in Diamond Point.
There are limited public docks in Lake George for daily use, as well as private marinas. However, booking in advance is highly recommended. Drake’s Lakeside Cabins is also one of the few vacation properties on Lake George with dock slips located onsite. Our dock rentals are available to guests traveling with jet skis or boats up to 30 feet, and can also be reserved by guests staying at our sister properties, Adirondack Diamond Point Lodge and Cramer’s Point Lake Breeze.
Paddling is safe, provided you are aware of the weather and areas of heavy boat traffic. Sticking to the coves and sheltered shorelines, especially in the early morning, offers the calmest waters. Drake’s Lakeside Cabins provides guests with complimentary kayaks and canoes and is located near Northwest Bay, a nautical cul-de-sac which receives significantly less boat traffic.
Fishing is permitted and popular on Lake George, offering a wide variety of species. A valid New York State fishing license is required for anyone 16 years or older, and can be purchased online through the New York State DEC. For length requirements, daily limits and seasonal open dates, view the NYSDEC Lake George Regulations.
In addition to boating, tubing, jet skiing, paddling, swimming and fishing, you can take a sightseeing cruise with the Lake George Steamboat Company and Lake George Waterfront Cruises, or go parasailing with Parasail Joe’s and Parasailing Adventures.
At Drake’s Lakeside Cabins – of course! Choose from our two-bedroom, three-bedroom and four-bedroom Adirondack cabins, or stay in our year-round Lakefront vacation home rental, and enjoy a private beach with complimentary canoes and kayaks, as well as dock rentals, fire pits, a playground for the kids, lawn games, and many additional amenities.
Book online or give us a call at (518) 644-3018.