Isle Royale National Park offers rustic cabin camping across several sites on the 45-mile long island, which sits in the northwest corner of Lake Superior. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-70°F with frequent fog and rain, while nights can drop into the 40s even in July. Water-based transportation is required to access all cabin accommodations as no roads connect to the mainland.
What to do
Hike to observation points: The trail from Daisy Farm Campground leads to scenic viewpoints overlooking Lake Superior. "The campground has a number of shelters and we had no problems finding an available one... The campsite also has a dock with a great view of the lake. We ate dinner out at the beach and spent the afternoon relaxing on the dock, talking to other backpackers," notes Alexa S. from Daisy Farm Campground.
Explore mining ruins: Historical mining sites near Three Mile Campground provide interesting day trip opportunities. "The trail that connects on either side of the campground is made up of huge rock slabs that are just feet away from Lake Superior, and there's old mining grounds just West of the Three Mile campground that are fun to walk around, just be aware of bees!" warns Alexa S.
Wildlife watching: Many campers report frequent fox and moose sightings around the cabin structures. "A loon was swimming in the cove and we came across a cow moose just south on the trail," reports Ethan S. about his experience at McCargoe Cove. The area's isolation creates ample opportunities for wildlife observation.
What campers like
Group gathering areas: Unlike many dispersed camping locations, some Isle Royale sites feature communal spaces. "This is one of only a handful of camps on the island that has a fire pit! It's a shared fire (not one for each site) with picnic tables nearby and a lovely view of the water," explains Amy G. about McCargoe Cove Campground.
Lake access for swimming: The cabin locations with direct shore access are particularly valued. "After hiking in from West Chickenbone, we were in need of cool swim as the interior of the island can be much warmer than the coast, not to mention the arid conditions throughout making it difficult to find water," shares Jason H. from Daisy Farm.
Shelter design features: The cabin structures include practical design elements for backcountry conditions. "There are boards all over the inside (parallel to the floor around the walls) that are great for hanging and airing out wet items. Each one had a picnic table and trees and was a very short walk to water and a toilet," describes Amy G. about the shelters at McCargoe Cove.
What you should know
Water treatment requirements: Lake Superior water requires careful treatment before consumption. "The Park Service recommends treating your drinking water in two ways (i.e., filter AND boil, chemically treat AND filter, some combination of two). The water is refreshing but there are leaches in addition to abundant bird poop," warns Sarah C. from McCargoe Cove.
No reservations system: All yurt camping at Rock Harbor Campground and other Isle Royale locations operates on a first-come basis. "Stayed in a shelter (there are 9) - they are no additional cost. There was one open when we got in on a Saturday afternoon in late June," reports Ann E.
One-night limits: Some cabin sites restrict stays. "This site only allows 1 consecutive night stays due to it being popular with those just getting to the island and those preparing to leave the next day," explains Tori K. about Rock Harbor Campground.
Weather protection varies: Not all shelters provide equal protection from storms. "We arrived on the island during a rainstorm. One of our friends wasn't feeling so well, so instead of making it to Daisy Farm, we stopped here. We scrambled for a shelter, but the only shelter with room for 3 people was right on the water and the wind, rain, and mist from the lake sprayed right inside," cautions Nicole L. from Three Mile.
Tips for camping with families
Toilet preparations: Facilities are primitive and require planning. "Toilets - not fancy but offer privacy. Small wooden shelters with a metal toilet and a pit. NOTE: they do not provide TP - you must take your own. They don't smell like roses (what pit toilet does?) but they allow privacy and no need to dig a cat hole," advises Amy G. about McCargoe Cove.
Food storage precautions: Wildlife presents challenges for food security. "The squirrels here are fearless and will try to steal your food or garbage when you are sitting right there," warns Tori K. about Daisy Farm Campground.
Natural hazards awareness: Children need supervision around water. "Be aware - there are leeches in the lake. We attempted to splash off a bit and noticed them," cautions Amy G. about swimming at McCargoe Cove.
Tips from RVers
Ferry planning: While no RV camping exists on Isle Royale, mainland options like Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground can serve as staging areas. "This place is way off the beaten path. Long dirt road to get back here. There are tent sites all along the beach front to watch the sunset and pick rocks," notes Stephen L.
Offsite supply options: Before boarding ferries to yurt camping at Isle Royale, stock up. "There's a camp store that has limited supplies but have the essentials. Everything is based on the honor system," explains RJ W. about nearby Sunset Bay RV Resort.
