Notable Campgrounds
- Best campground for less-remote camping: While some want to camp in isolated wilderness, those seeking more civilization may like Daisy Farm Campground, the largest of Isle Royale’s 36 campgrounds, offering 25 sites.
- Best campground for amenities: While all of the campgrounds at Isle Royale offer primitive camping, Washington Creek Campground has potable water, ice, firewood, laundry, and more nearby.
- Best for isolation: Several of Isle Royale’s 36 campgrounds only have a handful of sites, and some are only accessible by boat from the larger island, which creates even more seclusion. Check out Duncan Narrows Campground, Hay Bay Campground, and Pickerel Cove Campground, among others.
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- Campsites are only accessible by foot and by boat, so Isle Royale is only available for tent camping.
- Isle Royale has 36 established campgrounds, with most having a handful of campsites.
- All sites are first-come-first-served and require permits.
- Permits are available aboard the Ranger III passenger boat and at Rock Harbor Visitor Center and Trading Post and Windigo Visitor Center.
- Cross-country camping outside of established campgrounds is allowed, by permit.
- The number of nights you are allowed to stay varies by campground. Check the park newspaper or website for details.
When to Go
Due to its northern location, Isle Royale closes for the winter season, November through April. Extreme cold and freezing precipitation are possible outside of those dates. Visiting during early spring requires extra preparation, as services are reduced or non-existent. Summer is peak season, as the weather warms, the ice melts, and services open. Prepare for mosquitoes and black flies in late June through late August. Fall is particularly beautiful, as colorful trees fill the islands; however, services are limited or non-existent in September and October, and fall weather is unpredictable, with extreme cold snaps possible.
Know Before You Go
- Isle Royale National Park is closed November 1 until April 15.
- Potable water is limited on the islands. It can be accessed at the two visitor centers.
- Non-potable water is available from Lake Superior or interior lakes at most campgrounds. Come prepared to properly boil and/or filter water.
- Ferry and seaplane transportation options operate mid-May through September, with departures from Minnesota and Michigan.
- Only credit cards are accepted on the island for entrance fees and many other services.
Isle Royale National Park
Find yourself—and few others—in this remote island wilderness.
The fact that Isle Royale National Park is one of the least-visited national parks speaks more to its remote location than its awe-inspiring landscapes, found north of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Take a journey across Lake Superior by boat or seaplane to reach the spectacular collection of islands that make up this park, which consists of one larger island and over 400 small ones. Though far from civilization, it is closer to nature, offering abundant opportunities for camping, backpacking, and hiking on land, as well as canoeing/kayaking, boating, fishing, and scuba diving in the clear waters of Lake Superior and pristine inland lakes.
The fact that Isle Royale National Park is one of the least-visited national parks speaks more to its remote location than its awe-inspiring landscapes, found north of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Take a journey across Lake Superior by boat or seaplane to reach the spectacular collection of islands that make up this park, which consists of one larger island and over 400 small ones. Though far from civilization, it is closer to nature, offering abundant opportunities for camping, backpacking, and hiking on land, as well as canoeing/kayaking, boating, fishing, and scuba diving in the clear waters of Lake Superior and pristine inland lakes.
Activities in the park
35 campgrounds in Isle Royale National Park
Off the west shore of Isle Royale in Lake Superior, Grace Island Campground is a cool little destination for the adventurous and romantic alike. A small boat-in-only area with limited shelter space, this primitive wilderness campground requires a permit to be acquired upon arrival at Windigo or Rock Harbor (on the Isle Royale mainland). On the bri Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Notable Campgrounds
Notable Campgrounds
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Due to its northern location, Isle Royale closes for the winter season, November through April. Extreme cold and freezing precipitation are possible outside of those dates. Visiting during early spring requires extra preparation, as services are reduced or non-existent. Summer is peak season, as the weather warms, the ice melts, and services open. Prepare for mosquitoes and black flies in late June through late August. Fall is particularly beautiful, as colorful trees fill the islands; however, services are limited or non-existent in September and October, and fall weather is unpredictable, with extreme cold snaps possible.
Know Before You Go
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a bear canister in Isle Royale National Park?
Yes, using a bear canister is recommended when camping on Isle Royale to protect your food and scented items from wildlife, such as red foxes and red squirrels. While there are no black bears on the island, it's still essential to follow proper food storage practices to avoid attracting other animals to your campsite.
Can you stay overnight at Isle Royale National Park?
Yes, you can stay overnight at Isle Royale National Park, which is located in Lake Superior in Michigan. The park offers a variety of camping options, including 36 designated wilderness campgrounds for tent camping. Some campgrounds have shelters, while others only have tent sites. Keep in mind that permits are required for overnight stays, and you must follow the park's regulations for camping. You can learn more about camping in Isle Royale National Park and make reservations through the National Park Service website. If you're looking for other camping options nearby, check out Bois Blanc Island in Michigan.
Do you need permits to camp in Isle Royale National Park?
Yes, you need permits to camp on Isle Royale. Isle Royale National Park requires all campers to obtain a backcountry camping permit before setting up camp. The permit is required for all overnight stays at the park's campgrounds and is available at the visitor centers in Houghton, Rock Harbor, or Windigo. Additionally, there is an entrance fee for visiting the park. You can find more information about Isle Royale camping, permits, and fees on the Hipcamp Isle Royale page and the National Park Service website.
Which campsites on Isle Royale have shelters?
On Isle Royale National Park, several campsites have shelters available for campers. These shelters are typically three-sided wooden structures with a roof, providing protection from the elements. Campsites on Isle Royale with shelters include:
Please note that shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved in advance. Additionally, always check with the National Park Service for the most up-to-date information on camping and shelters at Isle Royale National Park.
Public campgrounds (book externally) —