Tent camping near Ashland, Wisconsin centers around the Apostle Islands archipelago, where more than 20 islands offer remote wilderness opportunities with Lake Superior's waters framing the experience. Camping season typically runs from mid-May through October, with water temperatures warming slightly by July. Weather conditions can change rapidly, requiring careful planning and appropriate gear even during summer months.
What to do
Hike interior trails: On Stockton Island, multiple hiking paths traverse old-growth forests. "Kayaking to this site and camping for a few days was one of my favorite trips ever. The trails were nice," notes camper Don M. The island features approximately 14 miles of maintained hiking trails.
Explore lighthouses: Visit the historic lighthouse on Devil's Island via guided tour or personal watercraft. "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," reports Glenda D. The lighthouse dates back to 1891.
Fish trout streams: At Big Rock Campground, campsites sit adjacent to a productive trout stream. "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," shares Lesley R., who used the campground as a base for exploring nearby trails.
What campers like
Group camping options: The Basswood Island Group Site accommodates larger parties with designated space away from individual sites. Similar group options exist on other islands, with Oak Island's Site-A designed specifically for 8-24 people according to Kurt S., who recommends: "Site-A is where it's at for group camping. Bring head nets and long clothes June-July for bugs."
Free amenities: Point Detour Wilderness Campground offers unexpected benefits despite its remote setting. "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," reports Amy G., who also notes the availability of free showers at the nearby casino, though not directly at the campground.
Beach access: Several island sites feature direct shoreline positioning. "We had a group of 7 at one campsite (3 of them being under 5). Its kind of hard to find some of the camp sites but when you do find them they have tables and rock fire rings," explains Shy R. about Point Detour's beach sites.
What you should know
Permits required: Most island camping within Apostle Islands National Lakeshore requires permits obtained through recreation.gov or at the Bayfield visitor center. Availability is limited, with permits available 30 days in advance.
Transportation planning: Water taxis run on limited schedules to select islands. A camper at Stockton Island notes: "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, no store or anything on the island."
Safety considerations: Some mainland locations report security concerns. At Big Rock Campground, Janet R. observed "a notice up about frequent car break-ins and campsite vandalism there. We ended up not staying here because no one else was at any of the campsites and we wondered about security."
Site accessibility: Site turnover happens quickly at first-come, first-served locations. "The only drawbacks were that some people seemed to be staying for extended periods and if you leave your campsite for any period of time it can be reclaimed. Even if you have paid. We lost our spot when we went into town," reports Eric about Big Rock Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility options: Families with mobility concerns should consider Sand Island, which offers designated accessible sites. On other islands, accessibility varies significantly. Amber W. reports: "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."
Water precautions: Lake Superior poses swimming challenges for young children due to cold temperatures year-round. Even in July, water temperatures rarely exceed 60°F.
Bug protection: Pack appropriate clothing and repellents, especially during peak summer months. "Bring head nets and long clothes June-July for bugs," advises an Oak Island camper, indicating the intensity of insects during prime camping season.
Planning buffer days: Weather can delay water transportation, potentially extending trips unexpectedly. Allow 1-2 extra days in your schedule when planning island camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Limited options: Most island camping prohibits RVs entirely, while mainland sites like Big Rock accommodate smaller rigs only.
Utilities: No hookups exist at most campgrounds near Ashland. Eric from Big Rock Campground suggests: "There's a great water source in Ashland next to the lake. We would fill our jugs here."
Site size variations: At Point Detour, Amy G. notes: "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. No biggie. Plenty of other spaces. All were very unique, no two were the same."
