Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and user-submitted reviews.
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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"
"Boondocking great spot! Drive back in to open field."
"Easy gravel road to the pin, there is one or two small sites on the left side of the road but we turned right and went down the 2 track (which was fine in 2wd vans w low clearance) and you end up in a"
"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."
RangerThis 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.
GuideVery 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
GuideThis 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.
LegendIf 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.
Traveler8 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.
TravelerThis 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.
TravelerIt was the most relaxing, peaceful, enjoyable campsite. I love the wilderness.
LegendIf you like wilderness, rustic, resourcing wood for fires and pure relaxation in the woods, here’s the place for you to add to your trip. No where you’d find on the main searches, it’s a place to respect.
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.
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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