Isle Royale National Park offers tent campsites on a 45-mile long island located in the northwestern portion of Lake Superior. The island sits 56 miles from the Michigan mainland and contains over 165 miles of trails connecting various campgrounds. Water temperature around the island rarely exceeds 55°F even in summer months, creating unique camping conditions where shoreline sites experience significantly cooler temperatures than inland locations.
What to do
Fishing at inland lakes: West Chickenbone Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities at its inland lake. According to Jason H., "Our neighbor caught 3 pike and a walleye in about 45 minutes" at West Chickenbone Campground.
Hiking to lookout points: The trail from Daisy Farm leads to a scenic tower with panoramic views. Nicole L. notes that Daisy Farm has "access to the trail that goes up to the tower" and describes it as having "a lot going on" with numerous facilities.
Wildlife observation: Todd Harbor offers prime wildlife viewing opportunities along Lake Superior. Matt S. explains that "The breeze from Lake Superior kept the bugs down and the campsite had awesome views of the lake" at Todd Harbor Campground.
Swimming at rocky beaches: Three Mile Campground provides refreshing swimming spots. Jason H. shares, "Swimming off the remnants of the dock and such easy access to the lake made for a wonderful experience" at this location near Rock Harbor.
What campers like
Shelters with lake views: Three Mile Campground offers shelters with prime waterfront positioning. Tee Jay M. explains that while Three Mile Campground can be "crowded for obvious reasons" as it's "only 2.7 miles from rock harbor," it remains "nice all the same" with "decent trees to put hammocks up if you bring one."
Secluded sites: Lane Cove features widely spaced tent sites. Danielle A. describes it as having tent sites that "are all pretty far from one another" with "direct access to the lake" making it ideal for privacy at Lane Cove Campground.
Community fire areas: Select campgrounds permit fires in designated communal rings. Sarah C. notes that Todd Harbor has "a large group fire pit in the middle of the campground area" making it a rare spot on the island where fires are allowed.
Evening wildlife encounters: Many campers report close wildlife sightings. Tee Jay M. mentioned making "a little fox friend that came through our site" at Three Mile, while Danielle A. reported hearing "a family of moose tromp through the forest in the night" at Lane Cove.
What you should know
Water treatment requirements: All water from lakes requires thorough treatment. Sarah C. warns about water quality at McCargoe Cove Campground: "There are quite a number of waterfowl that frequent the area so treat your water well" and notes that "the water is refreshing but there are leaches in addition to abundant bird poop."
Seasonal algal blooms: Late summer brings algal blooms to interior lakes. Nicole L. reports that at East Chickenbone Campground "another hiker told us they spotted algae flakes in the water" and their "resident marine biologist confirmed everyone's fears. Algae."
Limited shelter availability: Shelters fill quickly, especially at popular campgrounds. Tori K. notes that at Moskey Basin, "It a loves truck stop.. sign said no camping" creating confusion for visitors unfamiliar with shelter protocols.
Weather exposure considerations: Some waterfront shelters provide inadequate protection during storms. Nicole L. cautions that at Three Mile, "the only shelter with room for 3 people was right on the water" and during a storm "the wind, rain, and mist from the lake sprayed right inside."
Tips for camping with families
Choose larger campgrounds: Daisy Farm offers more facilities and space. Nicole L. describes it as feeling "large, and has a lot going on. Ranger station, dock, access to the trail that goes up to the tower, lots of vault toilets."
Beware of bold wildlife: Squirrels and foxes can become problematic at campsites. Tori K. warns at Daisy Farm Campground that "the squirrels here are fearless and will try to steal your food or garbage when you are sitting right there."
Plan shorter first-day hikes: Three Mile provides an accessible first-night option. Tee Jay M. explains they "stayed here our last night so we only had a short hike in the morning before catching the ferry back to the mainland."
Use shelters during bug season: Shelters provide essential protection from insects. Amy G. notes at McCargoe Cove that each shelter is "four sided with the front side 'screened in' for bugs. This is lovely in buggy weather!"
Tips from RVers
No RV access on island: Isle Royale is strictly tent and shelter camping. Sarah C. observes that at Moskey Basin Campground, "we could see the water from all shelters" but emphasizes "there are outhouses, but no potable water at the site," highlighting the primitive nature of accommodations.
Ferry logistics for gear: Plan carefully for transporting camping equipment. Matt S. recalls, "A small group of family and friends left the luxuries of home to backpack thirty miles in Isle Royale National Park" requiring thoughtful packing of essential items only.
Boat-in camping options: Anglers can access some campgrounds by private boat. Ann E. notes at Chippewa Harbor that "there were a few people who docked their fishing boat and ate here," making it accessible for day visits.
