DEC Announces Increased Access and Extended Hours for Lake George Beach

$33,000 in Improvements at Million Dollar Beach Complete by June 2017

A new gate, sidewalk lighting, increased access, and extended hours are all in store for Lake George (aka Million Dollar) Beach this summer, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos announced today. The improvements to the gates, lighting, and signage cost an estimated $33,000.

"Governor Andrew Cuomo is committed to making DEC facilities more accessible and enjoyable for everyone," said Commissioner Seggos. "We're improving access and updating facilities to ensure visitors to Million Dollar Beach have the best possible experience."

DEC is constructing a new gate on the western end of the beach, allowing pedestrians to enter the beach from Beach Road. The gate is expected to be completed before the end of June.

Later this summer DEC will extend lighting along the sidewalk from pedestrian crossing at the western end of the beach to the boat launch so the public can comfortably walk in that area.

Beginning May 27 through Labor Day, the public will be able to access the beach through the new gate from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily to relax, picnic, or recreate on the sand, though they may not enter the water when lifeguards are not on duty. The Lake George Beach House, complete with changing facilities, showers, and bathrooms, will also be open to the public.

Swimming will be permitted on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from May 27 to June 11 when lifeguards are on duty. Beginning June 16 through Labor Day, swimming will be permitted daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. when lifeguards are on duty.
The new hours of access and operation are being done on a trial basis this year and will depend on staff availability. The use of the beach remains free of charge. There is a $10 per vehicle parking fee.

Beachgoers must follow the rules of the beach at all times:

• No glass
• No alcohol
• No smoking
• No pets
• Swimming is allowed in designated areas only
• Swimming is prohibited at the approach and during thunderstorms.

In addition to these changes at Lake George Beach, swimming will be prohibited along the shoreline between West Creek and the beach - the area commonly referred to as "Dog Beach."