Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park
Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Oct. 21, 2017

Worth the Drive to the Top of MI

The Keewanaw Peninsula is a really neat part of Michigan and definitely deserves a visit. The whole way up to Copper Harbor is full of history and worthy places to visit. Copper Harbor sits at the tip of the peninsula and if you want to camp here there are really only two choices – the state park and the privately-owned Lake Fanny Hooe Resort and Campground.  Fort Wilkins is a pretty cool campground because it’s set among the Fort Wilkins Historic Complex and a great place to explore (especially with kids and history buffs) and learn about the areas past without even leaving the park. The grounds are beautiful as this is a well-maintained nineteenth century military outpost. Many of the buildings have been lovingly restored and are now exhibits beckoning you to explore and learn about life and operations of the fort.  

The campground is sandwiched between Lakes Fanny Hooe and Superior so either way you choose you have water. Lake Fanny Hooe is a long, skinny (and deep) lake that’s great for paddling, fishing, or just gazing at. The sites are pretty close together so you may get to know your neighbor like it or not. The park is full on weekend in the summer and for holidays so book early and expect crowds. There are two loops the “east” and the “west.” The west loop seems to have more trees and a little more privacy and wifi. If you can score site #10 it’s the best. Some sites have 50 amp while others are 30/20 amp with fire pits and picnic tables. Water spigots are scattered throughout the campground and there is a dump station available.  Some really nice amenities are the fort for exploring and learning, a large playground for kids to play, pavilions for groups to gather, on-site laundry (not very common in state parks), and water access. Definitely bring a fishing pole and watercraft if you have them. 

This area is a launching point for those wanted to visit Isle Royale National Park and draws many outdoor enthusiasts with its mountain biking trails, water activities, and hiking. When it is summer, Copper Harbor comes alive with outdoor activities. Numerous outfitters will rent gear for you to explore the area and enjoy the summer months. We loved that there are numerous trails skirting the grounds that make a nice walk. Nothing strenuous but nice to be able to stretch our legs and give the dog some exercise.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park by Nancy W., October 21, 2017
  • Review photo of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park by Nancy W., October 21, 2017
  • Review photo of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park by Nancy W., October 21, 2017
  • Review photo of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park by Nancy W., October 21, 2017
  • Review photo of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park by Nancy W., October 21, 2017
  • Review photo of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park by Nancy W., October 21, 2017
  • Review photo of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park by Nancy W., October 21, 2017
  • Review photo of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park by Nancy W., October 21, 2017
  • Review photo of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park by Nancy W., October 21, 2017
  • Review photo of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park by Nancy W., October 21, 2017
  • Review photo of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park by Nancy W., October 21, 2017