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Best Dispersed Camping near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

10 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping areas surround the Apostle Islands region in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Foster Falls offers secluded primitive camping approximately 100 feet from a waterfall, accessible via an 8-mile drive off the main road. The access road is mostly paved with some gravel sections. Castle Danger provides hidden wilderness sites but requires high-clearance 4WD vehicles to navigate the extremely rough access roads. These sites feature stone fire rings and typically remain uncrowded even during peak seasons.

Afterhours Meadow provides an open field camping area surrounded by wildflowers in summer, with easy access via gravel roads suitable for standard vehicles including vans with low clearance. State Land in the Lax Lake Area offers secluded woodland sites but requires navigating overgrown access routes. For paddlers, Last Creek Kayak Site provides boat-in primitive camping with picnic tables. According to one visitor, it offers "private views" but comes with seasonal challenges: "Bring your bug nets, spray, bear rope, you've joined nature." Most dispersed sites in the region lack facilities such as toilets, drinking water, or trash service.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (8)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

18 Photos of 8 Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

10 Reviews of 8 Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Campgrounds

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Castle Danger

    Awesome extremely private and primitive camping

    DO NOT COME HERE UNLESS YOU HAVE A HIGH CLEARANCE 4x4. The “road” up to the campsite is basically a jeep trail. But if you can get to it I recommend taking the first right if you have a pickup truck or going immediately left if you have anything else. The spot on top of the hill is a great spot.

  • TexasRed (.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    State Land Lax Lake Area - Dispersed Camping

    Nice quiet spot

    Nice secluded spot near many cool attractions but a few miles off the beaten path so it’s a lot less busy. The dirt road in was fine, the driveway was overgrown and the clearing has lots of rocks and vegetation so glad I checked it out in the daytime. I left and came back to find some other Dryters who were really cool and let me stay next to them. Had a fun night by the fire talking with the couple and looking at the stars. Overall very cool spot.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 18, 2024

    Castle Danger

    Great dispersed camping!

    This spot is pretty well hidden in the woods with a tight trail in. There are a few spots you could camp with stone firepits. Didn't look to be visited often, but I came in winter. There are low sites, and if you have 4x4, you can drive up to another plateau of sites. There's plenty of wood, but depending on location, you'll have to walk for it.

  • TexasRed (.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Castle Danger

    Great Spot

    Very nice n secluded spot, only had one other person stay there on labor day weekend. There are a couple of designated spots with fire rings, some are harder to get to. The road in is kind of rough but my subie handled it fine. The location on the dirt does take you to a persons property but check out Skips review for a detailed location. Overall great spot and close to a superior hiking trailhead

  • Carissa J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Castle Danger

    Well hidden dispersed spot

    This area is definitely off the beaten path. Super skinny road with lots of rocks/hills and puddles coming in. I would recommend a car with 4WD for it and would not suggest pulling a camper unless you have experience bringing it over rough terrain. The sites themselves appeared to not be visited often. I went in early August and a lot of the places were over grown with plants! It was nice to be right by the north shore but in a spot that felt very much secluded. There was also no bugs here which was amazing! Great spot to hang out by a campfire without getting swarmed. You’ll be able to find plenty of wood from the nearby trees for a fire as well.

  • Lesley R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 20, 2022

    Last Creek Kayak Site

    Private with Views

    If you’re a serious boater who loves a good challenge with the goal of spending buggy days in the thickets of the woods along Lake Superior, this private boat-in site has been tailored for you. Perhaps early spring or late fall would be an ideal time to visit this location, either way, the landscape is stunning, no one else around. Bring your bug nets, spray, bear rope, you’ve joined nature.

  • Irvin N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Foster Falls

    Alone in the woods

    8 Mile drive off the main road. Mostly paved, some gravel, but all smooth. We had the place to ourselves. A short walk down to the waterfall. Quiet and serene, towering trees and only a few mosquitoes.

  • Michael G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2022

    Foster Falls

    Foster Falls

    This is a nice, secluded site about 100 feet from the falls. We did get several visitors to the falls each day, but most were only there for a few minutes and left us alone. The mosquitoes were somewhat bad. Also got a bit nervous hearing timber wolves in the distance for a few hours at night then again in the early morning. But we practiced good camp hygiene and they left us alone.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 10, 2023

    Foster Falls

    Peaceful

    It was the most relaxing, peaceful, enjoyable campsite. I love the wilderness.

Guide to Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, where nature lovers can find secluded spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. This area offers a variety of unique camping experiences, perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Secluded Spots for Nature Lovers

  • For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, consider the Castle Danger, which features a rugged access road and sites that feel untouched by frequent visitors.
  • If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, Foster Falls offers a serene environment with towering trees and minimal disturbances, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.
  • The State Land Lax Lake Area is perfect for those who appreciate rustic camping, allowing you to gather firewood and enjoy the wilderness without the crowds.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin

  • Always be prepared for a lack of amenities; for instance, Last Creek Kayak Site has no drinking water or toilets, so bring your supplies and plan accordingly.
  • If you’re camping at Carlton Peak, be ready for a bumpy road, but the stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding mountains make the journey worthwhile.
  • Keep in mind that some areas, like Brule River State Forest Backpacking Sites, require a permit, so check local regulations before heading out.

Activities While Free Camping Near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the trails near Castle Danger, where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the North Shore.
  • At Foster Falls, take a short walk to the waterfall for a refreshing view and a perfect photo opportunity.
  • For those who love boating, the Last Creek Kayak Site offers a private boat-in experience, ideal for adventurous souls looking to explore the waters of Lake Superior.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are dispersed camping sites located in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore?

Dispersed camping sites in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore area are primarily located on the islands and accessible by boat. Last Creek Kayak Site is a boat-in site along Lake Superior for experienced paddlers. On the mainland, options include Afterhours Meadow, which features a large clearing at the end of a gravel road with sites suitable for vans and smaller vehicles. Most mainland dispersed sites are found down forest roads or spur trails, often near natural features like waterfalls or lake overlooks. Many of these sites require traveling on unpaved roads, and some may benefit from vehicles with higher clearance or 4WD capability.

What permits are required for dispersed camping in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore?

For dispersed camping in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, you typically need to obtain backcountry camping permits for island camping. For nearby mainland dispersed sites like Foster Falls or Castle Danger, permit requirements vary based on land management. Many National Forest dispersed sites follow a 14-day stay limit rule. Some areas may require self-registration at trailheads or ranger stations. For State Forest lands, check local regulations as some require camping permits while others are free but have specific distance requirements from water sources and trails. Always verify current permit requirements with the park service before your trip as regulations may change seasonally.

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is Lake Superior Overlook at Northshore Park with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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