Stockton Island - Campsite — Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

It’s been quite a few years since i visited, but 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, the trails were nice. I’d definitely return!!!

Stockton Island is one of about a dozen islands in the Apostle Islands archipelago. The Apostle Islands are managed as a national lakeshore by the National Park Service. Access to the islands is by water shuttle https://www.apostleisland.com/shuttles-camping/ or via your own watercraft. The islands are famous for a wilderness experience in a pristine part of Lake Superior offshore from Bayfield Wisconsin. Camping and kayaking in the islands is a spectacular experience. The season is short, from late June to Labor Day; traversing the lake lake is too unpredictable after that! We went in June and had a fabulous experience. Lots of sun, no bugs, gentle breezes, perfect temps in the 60’s. The water shuttle drops you passengers at a large dock in a natural harbor on the southeast side of Stockton Island. A short walk from the landing brings you to the Island’s ranger station and visitor center for an orientation and an intro to the island. 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. It would be completely do-able for folks camping with someone in a wheel chair, thank you NPS for your efforts! Additional walkin campsites are spread out further down the shore, under magnificent trees, along the sandy shore, with plenty of seclusion and a great rustic experience. Tent camping only, of course. No vehicles on the island! Lots of hiking, kayaking, nature watching and more, even swimming if you can brave the cold Superior temps. 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. Coming here is a real adventure!