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Established Camping

West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park

West Chickenbone Campground, near Houghton, Michigan, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Isle Royale National Park. This place is all about seclusion and stunning views, with individual access to Lake Chickenbone from each campsite, making it a prime location for fishing and wildlife watching.

The campground is designed for tent camping, and visitors rave about the spacious sites tucked away among the trees. One camper mentioned, “The tent sites are really nice with lots of space to set up away from your neighbors,” which adds to the peaceful vibe. While there are no electric hookups or showers, you’ll find drinking water and toilets available, keeping things simple and natural.

If you’re into fishing, you’re in luck! Campers have reported great catches, including pike and walleye, right from the lake. Plus, the area is a haven for wildlife, with sightings of moose being a highlight for many. The views along the lake are breathtaking, especially at sunset, making it a perfect backdrop for your camping adventure.

Getting to West Chickenbone is a breeze for those who enjoy hiking or boating, and it’s a short trek from McCargoe Cove. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or explore the trails, this campground offers a serene escape into nature.

Description

National Park Service

Isle Royale National Park

West Chickenbone Campground is located on the west end of Chickenbone Lake, off of the Indian Portage Trail This inland campground has no boater access. Canoe/kayak access from the 1.2 mile portage from McCargoe Cove or the 0.2 mile portage from Lake Livermore. Stay Limit: 2 nights from June 1 Labor Day annually. Access: Foot/canoe/kayak

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Location

West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Directions

West Chickenbone Campground is located on the west end of Chickenbone Lake, off of the Indian Portage Trail.

Address

800 E. Lakeshore Drive
Houghton, MI 49931

Coordinates

48.063272 N
88.724676 W

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Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Good
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Nov. 1, 2024

Primitive

Primitive site. Most sites have room for a couple of backpacking tents if you are hiking in a small group. No fire rings or picnic table. I believe there was an outhouse in the campground. I believe this is one of the lakes that periodically has algal blooms. When you get to the island off the boat, the ranger goes through everybody’s route and itinerary with them and will let you know what water sources may be dried up and what water sources are going through an algal bloom so you can plan your water sourcing appropriately.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Tori K., November 1, 2024
  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Tori K., November 1, 2024
  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Tori K., November 1, 2024
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Aug. 29, 2021

Great for fishing

Beautiful views and secluded sites but the air was a bit stagnant. Nice access to the lake for a dip but it seems if you want to fish, this is it. Our neighbor caught 3 pike and a walleye in about 45 minutes.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Jason H., August 29, 2021
  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Jason H., August 29, 2021
  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Jason H., August 29, 2021
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Aug. 14, 2018

Great wilderness campsite

Very secluded campground with individual Lake Chickenbone access at each campsite. Very good spot to see wildlife including moose!

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Jesse H., August 14, 2018
  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Jesse H., August 14, 2018
  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Jesse H., August 14, 2018
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Sep. 28, 2016

Many private sites near the lake

I stayed here one night of a four day trip through Isle Royale NP. There are many tent sites, including a few group sites, and a couple of privys. Not all of the sites are on the lake but all have plenty of tree cover. My partner and I each found a nice spot on either side of our tent site which was pretty close to the water and up a short slope, nestled right in the trees.

  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Danielle A., September 28, 2016
  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Danielle A., September 28, 2016
  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Danielle A., September 28, 2016
Reviewed Sep. 28, 2016

Quite stay at West Chickenbone Lake

After getting off the ferry at McCargoe Cove, I hiked a short distance to W Chickenbone Lake. The views along the lake were incredible and you have an awesome view along the lake front campsites. There aren't shelters at this campsite but there is a privy, and the tent sites are really nice with lots of space to set up away from your neighbors. This wasn't my favorite campsite of the ones I stayed at on Isle Royale. The group sites were a little overgrown and there were only a few sites closer to the lake. However, it was a great place to stay, very quiet despite the large crowd, and a short hike away from McCargoe Cove if you're wanting a slow start to your day after the ferry ride over from Grand Portage.

  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Alexa S., September 28, 2016
  • Review photo of West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park by Alexa S., September 28, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, West Chickenbone Campground — Isle Royale National Park does not have wifi.