Apostle Islands National Lakeshore features 21 islands in the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. This Wisconsin archipelago maintains average summer temperatures between 60-75°F, creating a short but reliable camping season from late May through September. Weather conditions can shift rapidly, with fog prevalent in June and strong winds capable of creating 6-10 foot waves that can strand boaters on islands for multiple days.
What to do
Kayak sea caves: The northern shore of Devil's Island features dramatic sea caves carved by Lake Superior's waves. "The jagged beauty of the rocks that have been naturally edged by the rugged waters and the cool blue-green hue of the rippling water under the cave hoods is breathtaking," notes one visitor. These formations are accessible only during calm water conditions.
Hike inland trails: Stockton Island offers extensive hiking through old-growth forest with several loop trails ranging from 1-3 miles. "Lots of hiking, kayaking, nature watching and more, even swimming if you can brave the cold Superior temps," reports a camper who visited in June.
Visit historic lighthouses: Six historic light stations stand throughout the archipelago, with Sand Island hosting one of the most accessible. "There's also a lighthouse that you can hike to. It's really cool because it's on a huge rocky part of the island. It was locked but still cool. There were some signs to read with history there," explains one camper.
What campers like
Site privacy: Campsites on most islands provide significant separation. At Sand Island, a visitor notes, "The sites are very secluded from one another so you hardly run into people. There is a place to use an open outhouse. It's sitting in the middle of the woods not too far from the campsites."
Accessibility options: Stockton Island offers specialized facilities for visitors with mobility challenges. "A stellar handicapped accessible platform campsite is adjacent to the ranger station, the best and most accessible I've ever seen and would be perfect for a family member of mine with special needs and mobility issues," explains a camper.
Free amenities at mainland options: Point Detour Wilderness Campground provides unexpected complimentary resources. "Fun fact: free firewood! Or at least there was a large pile of it when we were there. Free for the taking, so that was a nice surprise," shares a July visitor. This mainland alternative also offers free shower access at the nearby casino with scheduled time slots.
What you should know
Water transportation required: Most Apostle Islands campsites require boats for access. Commercial water shuttles service major islands from Bayfield, but operate on limited schedules (typically 2-3 days per week). A Stockton Island camper advises, "Be prepared with all the supplies you need for your stay as the water shuttle only comes to the island a few days a week and once you are there, you are there for the duration."
Mainland alternatives available: When weather prevents island access, Big Rock Campground offers a mainland option. "Found this backside campground when everything else was full. Great location on a river and was there when no one else was. Stayed two nights and moved to a site further into the woods the second night," reports a visitor.
Maintenance varies significantly: Site conditions can differ dramatically between campgrounds and even within the same facility. At Point Detour, a camper observed, "Some sites had grass which had not been cut in quite some time and would make it really difficult to camp, others had the grass cut."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: At Oak Island, specific sites offer better experiences for groups. A visitor recommends, "Site-A is where it's at for group camping (8-24 people). Site-6 is off on its own on the northeastern side which is nice. I'd say site A, 1, 6. Site 3 is okay too. All others are close to ranger station."
Pack insect protection: Biting insects can be problematic, especially early in the season. "Bring head nets and long clothes June-July for bugs," advises an Oak Island camper who experienced the conditions firsthand.
Consider mainland alternatives for flexibility: Point Detour Wilderness Campground offers easier access while maintaining proximity to the islands. "We used The Dyrt to find this location. Thinking we would be staying at the casino campground, we discovered this gem, that they also run. Not as crowded, as most people want to be closer to the casino itself, it's lovely, although primitive."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The best tent camping near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore rarely accommodates RVs. Only Point Detour Wilderness Campground officially permits RVs, but with significant limitations. "All the spaces were mowed and ready for campers except for one that was so far back in the woods that someone seemed to have missed it. Plenty of other spaces. All were very unique, no two were the same," reports a visitor who noted most sites could only accommodate small RVs or vans.
Advanced reservations recommended: Point Detour operates through the nearby casino's reservation system. "The reservation set up is a bit odd since you have to make it with the casino/hotel front desk and check in there, but the campground is about 9 miles away. Once you get to the campground, then you call the front desk to let them know what space you are in."
