Tent camping near La Pointe, Wisconsin requires careful planning for weather conditions unique to Lake Superior's microclimate. Summer temperatures average 10-15 degrees cooler than inland Wisconsin locations, with frequent fog and sudden weather changes common across the Apostle Islands. Lake Superior's surface temperature rarely exceeds 55°F even during peak summer months, creating challenging conditions for paddlers and swimmers.
What to do
Explore sea caves: Devil's Island features dramatic rock formations along its shoreline. Visitors can see the natural caves that create whistling sounds during high winds. According to one camper, "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."
Hike to island lighthouses: Oak Island offers challenging trails leading to panoramic overlooks. A visitor notes, "Long hike to get to The Overlook. Bring a sandwich and water. Hike light." The island's elevation makes it an excellent vantage point for viewing neighboring islands.
Island hopping adventures: Sand Island provides secluded camping with access to hiking trails through dense forest. "This island was beautiful and had very thick forestry, but plenty of room on the hiking path to hike. I loved that most of the land was untouched by humans," reports one camper who stayed at site 6.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Point Detour Wilderness Campground offers 24 unique sites with natural vegetation buffers. A camper mentioned, "All were very unique, no two were the same. Some very small for a tiny tent and privacy and a few others more open for bigger tents and maybe a small family group."
Free firewood availability: Some locations provide unexpected amenities. At Point Detour, a camper discovered "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."
Secluded alternatives to crowded areas: Big Rock Campground serves as an overflow option when other sites are full. According to one visitor, "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."
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Most island campsites require boat transportation, with limited shuttle service. At Stockton Island, "Kayaking there took time and effort, but beautiful site was worth it. Sites were divided by natural vegetation, the trails were nice."
Water safety precautions: Cold water requires proper gear year-round. A Sand Island camper warns, "It's important to have a sea kayak or a motorized boat. If using a kayak make sure you have a wet suit! The water can be difficult and cold."
Island closure status: Some islands have restricted access. A camper noted about Devil's Island, "Usually closed. Been since 2019 for sure. Most likely for 2021 season too. Accessing the mainland anyway."
Primitive facilities: Most campgrounds feature basic amenities only. At Point Detour, "Sites had a fire pit and picnic table. The outhouse was a bit messy, but usable."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for space: Big Rock Campground offers larger sites suitable for family groups. One camper observed, "Campsites are wooded and spacious... but a bit weary from use." Choose sites farther from common areas for more privacy.
Preparation for isolation: Stock all supplies before island visits. Bring water filtration systems, sufficient food, and emergency supplies. Island locations have no stores or services.
Weather planning: Schedule family trips in August when water temperatures are warmest and early-season insects have diminished. Water temperatures remain cold enough to require caution for swimming activities with children.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The best tent camping near La Pointe, Wisconsin primarily supports tent camping, with few RV-friendly sites. Big Rock Campground accommodates smaller RVs but lacks hookups. A visitor noted, "Stayed here for 3 nights over the summer when every other campsite in the surrounding area was full... Close enough to Apostle Islands and other hiking."
Water access points: RVers staying at mainland campgrounds should note water fill locations. "There's a great water source in Ashland next to the lake. We would fill our jugs here," reports one camper who used Big Rock Campground as a base for exploring the region.
