Tent camping near Bayfield, Wisconsin provides access to the archipelago of 22 Apostle Islands scattered across Lake Superior. These remote campsites experience Lake Superior's maritime climate with summer temperatures averaging 65-75°F during the day and 45-55°F at night. Many sites on the islands require campers to filter lake water or pack in their own supplies due to limited facilities.
What to do
Hike to lighthouse views: On Devil's Island, follow trails to the historic lighthouse where visitors report dramatic rock formations. One camper noted, "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."
Paddle protected waters: Sand Island offers kayakers multiple protected coves to explore. A reviewer mentioned, "The sites are very secluded from one another so you hardly run into people. There is a place to use an open outhouse. Its sitting in the middle of the woods not too far from the campsites."
Forest exploration: Oak Island features extensive hiking trails through mature forests with views from the island's highest point. According to one camper: "Long hike to get to The Overlook. Bring a sandwich and water. Hike light."
What campers like
Site privacy: Point Detour Wilderness Campground offers 24 unique sites with varying levels of seclusion. A camper observed, "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."
Free amenities: Several campgrounds provide unexpected perks. At Point Detour, a visitor reported, "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."
Beach access: Stockton Island features sandy beaches alongside forested campsites. One reviewer commented, "Kayaking to this site and camping for a few days was one of my favorite trips ever. Kayaking there took time and effort, but beautiful site was worth it. Sites were divided by natural vegetation."
What you should know
Reservations and permits: Most island campgrounds require advance permits through the National Park Service's recreation.gov website, with peak season bookings filling 3-6 months ahead.
Weather preparedness: Lake Superior creates unpredictable conditions year-round. Pack layers and rain gear even in summer months when temperature swings of 30°F can occur within 24 hours.
Limited accessibility: Big Rock Campground near Washburn provides mainland camping when islands are inaccessible. A camper noted, "Found this backside campground when everything else was full. Great location on a river and was there when no one else was."
Site security concerns: Some mainland campgrounds have reported theft issues. As one visitor to Big Rock mentioned, "Although this is in a beautiful setting with decent campsites, and not far from Ashland for day trips, a concern for me was a notice up about frequent car break-ins and campsite vandalism there."
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility options: Stockton Island offers handicap-accessible platforms near the ranger station. A visitor reported, "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."
Bug protection: Insect populations peak in June and July on the islands. A camper advised, "Bring head nets and long clothes june-july for bugs."
Water source planning: Pack filtration systems for island camping or identify mainland fill stations. One camper at Big Rock shared, "There's a great water source in Ashland next to the lake. We would fill our jugs here."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most island camping is tent-only, but Devil's Island offers scheduled boat tours for day visitors who camp elsewhere with RVs. A visitor recommended, "I recommend the tour of the Apostle Islands to anyone visiting Bayfield, WI and the views at Devil's Island are indescribable."
Mainland alternatives: Point Detour accommodates small trailers with primitive amenities. A camper noted, "The outhouse was a bit messy, but usable. Sites had a fire pit and picnic table."
Shower arrangements: Some campgrounds offer creative solutions for hygiene. At Point Detour, "You can sign up for a time slot at the casino front desk and then go there and take one. They are quite clean. So while not terribly convenient, they are free and it is a nice shower."
