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Three types of camping are available at Isle Royale: three sided shelters (maximum six people), tent sites (maximum six people) for one to three tents, and group sites (for parties of seven to ten people). Long term campground stays are not permitted. To ease overcrowding, campgrounds have varying limits on consecutive night stays. There are no fees for the camping. Refer to the table below for specific limits. Come prepared to be mobile, self sufficient, and flexible.
The following information describes the maximum consecutive nights stay, number of individual tent sites, number of shelters, number of group tent sites, special information, and depth at dock in feet for 36 campgrounds at Isle Royale National Park.
| Campground | Open | Close | Max Nights | Tent Sites | Shelters | Group Sites | Fire (F) or Stove (S) | Depth at Dock (ft) | Boat, Canoe, Kayak Access |
| Beaver Island | Spring | Fall | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | S | 2 - 5 | Yes |
| Belle Isle | Spring | Fall | 5 | 1 | 6 | 0 | F | 13 | Yes |
| Birch Island | Spring | Fall | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | S | 5 | Yes |
| Caribou Island | Spring | Fall | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | S | 10 | Yes |
| Chickenbone East | Spring | Fall | 2 | 3 | 0 | 1 | S | No Dock | Yes |
| Chickenbone West | Spring | Fall | 2 | 6 | 0 | 3 | S | No Dock | Yes |
| Chippewa Harbor | Spring | Fall | 3 | 2 | 4 | 1 | F | 7 | Yes |
| Daisy Farm | Spring | Fall | 3 | 6 | 16 | 3 | S | 9 | Yes |
| Desor North | Spring | Fall | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | S | No Dock | Trail Access |
| Desor South | Spring | Fall | 2 | 7 | 0 | 0 | S | No Dock | Trail Access |
| Duncan Bay | Spring | Fall | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | F | 6 | Yes |
| Duncan Narrows | Spring | Fall | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | F | 6 | Yes |
| Feldtmann Lake | Spring | Fall | 2 | 5 | 0 | 2 | S | No Dock | Trail Access |
| Grace Island | Spring | Fall | 3 | 0 | 2 | 0 | S | 3 - 4 | Yes |
| Hatchet Lake | Spring | Fall | 2 | 5 | 0 | 3 | S | No Dock | Trail Access |
| Hay Bay | Spring | Fall | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | S | 5 - 7 | Yes |
| Huginnin Cove | Spring | Fall | 3 | 5 | 0 | 0 | S | No Dock | Trail Access |
| Intermediate Lake | Spring | Fall | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | S | No Dock | Yes |
| Island Mine | Spring | Fall | 3 | 4 | 0 | 2 | S | No Dock | Trail Access |
| Campground | Open | Close | Max Nights | Tent Sites | Shelters | Group Sites | Fire (F) or Stove (S) | Depth at Dock (ft) | Boat, Canoe, Kayak Access |
| Lake Richie | Spring | Fall | 2 | 4 | 0 | 2 | S | No Dock | Yes |
| Lake Richie Canoe | Spring | Fall | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | S | No Dock | Yes |
| Lake Whittlesey | Spring | Fall | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | S | No Dock | Yes |
| Lane Cove | Spring | Fall | 3 | 5 | 0 | 0 | S | No Dock | Yes |
| Little Todd | Spring | Fall | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | F | No Dock | Yes |
| Malone Bay | Spring | Fall | 3 | 0 | 5 | 2 | F | 6 - 7 | Yes |
| McCargoe Cove | Spring | Fall | 3 | 3 | 6 | 3 | F | 7 | Yes |
| Merritt Lane | Spring | Fall | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | S | 8 | Yes |
| Moskey Basin | Spring | Fall | 3 | 2 | 6 | 2 | S | 8 | Yes |
| Pickerel Cove | Spring | Fall | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | S | No Dock | Yes |
| Rock Harbor | Spring | Fall | 1 | 11 | 9 | 3 | S | 5 - 10 | Yes |
| Siskiwit Bay | Spring | Fall | 3 | 4 | 2 | 3 | F | 5 - 7 | Yes |
| Three Mile | Spring | Fall | 1 | 4 | 8 | 3 | S | 9 | Yes |
| Todd Harbor | Spring | Fall | 3 | 5 | 1 | 3 | F | 4 | Yes |
| Tookers Island | Spring | Fall | 3 | 0 | 2 | 0 | S | 7 | Yes |
| Washington Creek | Spring | Fall | 3 | 5 | 10 | 4 | S | No Dock | Yes |
| Wood Lake | Spring | Fall | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | S | No Dock | Yes |
| Campground | Open | Close | Max Nights | Tent Sites | Shelters | Group Sites | Fire (F) or Stove (S) | Depth at Dock (ft) | Boat, Canoe, Kayak Access |
Alcohol
Open containers of alcoholic beverages are prohibited at Siskiwit Bay and McCargoe Cove Campgrounds, on their associated docks, and while on board boats at their docks.
Backpacks
A strong pack that fits well is a must. This is a poor time to break in a new pack, since it could strain your back, raise blisters on your hips, and make walking uncomfortable. Whether you use an internal or external frame pack is a matter of preference., as long as it is durable and well designed for backpacking. Load test your pack prior to your island visit. Balance your load. Make sure your pack rain cover or poncho is in good condition and readily accessible. Remember to keep your first aid kit, flashlight, snack and water bottles where they can be accessed without disturbing the rest of the pack.
Campfires
Opportunities for campfires are limited; a self contained fuel (backpacking) stove is needed. Backpacking stoves are dependable, easier to use, and less damaging to the park than wood fires. Backpacking stoves are also lightweight and eliminate the need for hatchets, axes, or saws. Where campfires are allowed, a metal fire ring is provided. Never build your own ring. Use only wood that is dead and down. Please do not peel bark or cut live trees or branches. Always extinguish your campfire completely before you depart the area. Water at Isle Royale deserve special care to avoid polluting it and exposing yourself or your party to diseases.
Drinking Water
Water not obtained from the spigots at Rock Harbor or Washington Creek Campground/Windigo area must be considered contaminated with eggs of the hydatid tapeworm and bacteria and requires special care. Boil water for two minutes or filter through a 25 micron water filter.
The purchase and use of water filters is highly recommended. One unit for each group of five or six will provide an adequate and safe water supply. Bring along a piece of linen or tightly woven cotton pre filter large organic matter before running water through your filter. Collapsible plastic jugs are very useful at campsites. If you decide to boil, rather than filter water, be sure to carry extra fuel. Keep in mind that accidentally boiling water can cause severe injuries.
Remember that it is unsafe to drink untreated Isle Royale water. Water treated only with chemical tablets WILL NOT guarantee safe drinking water.
Food
There are several manufacturers of trail foods on the market, making menu selection unlimited. Sample your meals at planning meetings. Cook at a shake down outing, so that you order only those items that will be eaten and enjoyed by the group. There will be minimum opportunity for substitutions on the island.
Consider developing your menu from items at your local supermarket. There are many things on the shelf that are suitable for backpacking, and usually they are cheaper than freeze dried trail foods. Try dry soups, potatoes, fast cooking grains, biscuits, breakfast foods, desserts, and juices. Keep meals simple; one pot meals are best for preparation and cleanup. Don't skimp on food. Package your meals so that they can be distributed easily and allow everyone's load to become a little lighter each day. All your trash must be hauled off the island by your group when you leave, so refrain from using canned goods; they are heavy, bulky, and messy to carry around after they have been opened. A multi day menu that repeats itself can simplify planning and purchase of food.
Squirrels and foxes have been conditioned by visitors to become bandits and may raid your equipment and food. Don't feed them. Protect your food and trash; arrange a bag and line to hang them above their reach.
Footwear
EXPECT BLISTERS! If you don't get them, you will be happy; if you do, you will at least be prepared. Foot wear that has been a friend for years may seem to turn against its owners for no apparent reason. Walking long distanced in wet footwear is a classic way to invite blisters. Even when your boots seem dry, take frequent short breaks to dry accumulated sweat from socks and footwear and reduce the probability of blisters. Wear footwear that is comfortable and in good condition. Boots high enough to give ankle support are recommended. Boots should breathe. Heavy mountaineering types are not needed.
Whenever you suspect that someone may have a blister starting, treat it immediately. Don't wait until the next scheduled stop. If there is noticeable rubbing, redness, or soreness, cover the area with moleskin or good quality adhesive tape. Keep the area clean and covered. It is recommended that you waterproof your boots and carry along running shoes or moccasins for evening wear while your boots air or dry out.
Hazards
Beware of open mine pits at Island Mine, Todd Harbor, Siskowit Mine, Daisy Farm, Minong Mine, and other areas throughout the park. Be prepared for rapid and dramatic changes in weather. Know signs and symptoms of hypothermia and heat related emergencies. It is often hot and dry on the ridges, even when it is cool down by Lake Superior. Carry plenty of drinking water and drink it! Watch your footing on wet and slippery trails, rock surfaces, and roots. There are 88 three sided sleeping shelters on Isle Royale. They provide a convenient source of shelter, especially during bad weather, and the front of each shelter is screened to provide relief from the biting insects. Availability is on a first come, first served basis. We encourage you to do your part in keeping these shelters in good condition. Vandalism such as carving and writing on the walls and ceilings is illegal. To prevent damage to the screens and the doors, be careful with your camping gear, and close doors softly. Sweep them out with the brooms provided before you depart, so they will be clean for the next user.
Drinking water can be a source of great pleasure on a wilderness journey, or it can ruin your trip.
Water borne diseases may not be a problem at Isle Royale, but harmful bacteria and other microscopic creatures may contaminate the water.
WARNING! Water not obtained from spigots in Rock Harbor or Windigo must be considered contaminated with intestinal bacteria and the eggs of the hydatid tapeworm. Boil water for at least two minutes or filter through an adequate filter (0.4microns for bacteria; 25 microns for tapeworm). Halizone tablets, bleach, and other chemical purifiers WILL NOT kill tapeworm eggs although they may be effective against bacteria if used properly. PLAY IT SAFE!
Take time to read this basic information about how your should care for your drinking water at Isle Royale National Park.
Human Waste
Use pit toilets provided at campgrounds to dispose of human waste. If not available: select a spot at least 100 feet from trails, streams, lakes, or dry stream beds and dig a hole six inches deep. Cover the hole tightly with duff after use. Carry out sanitary napkins and tampons.
Expect mosquitoes, black flies, gnats, and other insects to peak in June or July. They are part of your Isle Royale experience. Bring plenty of insect repellent and netting or other skin barriers. Think in terms of being able to cover all exposed skin on your body from biting insects. Insects can bite through thin clothing. Make sure your tent has mosquito netting and that it has no holes. Bring materials to repair damaged mosquito netting.
The mosquito and black fly hatch generally starts at the end of May or the beginning of June. Black flies hatch in cold running water. They can be especially numerous if we have unusually warm weather during spring runoff, or when heavy rains keep streams high into summer. Large numbers of black flies are usually gone by July. Some years, the island has relatively few. In a heavy year, a few may linger until frost. The first frost may come as early as the end of August or as late as the end of September.
Mosquitoes usually get off to a quick start and then slowly taper down as the summer dries out. In a rainy summer, they will stay at high numbers. At least some mosquitoes will hang on until a heavy frost finally ends their season.
Insects are part of the natural scene at Isle Royale and they can be annoying. The number of bugs and when they arrive varies considerably from year to year. Insect numbers also vary from one location to another on the Island due to micro climate effects and from day to day due to weather changes. For example, the cooler Lake Superior shores tend to have fewer mosquitoes, but wind direction and other factors can override that tendency. Hot, humid weather brings out every available mosquito and black fly. Cool, dry, breezy days slows them down.
In a typical year, the mosquito and black fly hatch starts at the end of May or the beginning of June. Black flies hatch in cold running water. They can be especially numerous if there is unusually warm weather during spring runoff, or when heavy rains keep streams high into summer. When they are really out, they can be so thick as to drive campers to desperate measures such as spending lots of time in tents, using head nets and breathing through their teeth. At times, the conversation turns to modes of protection. Discussions of the merits of DEET repellents versus citronella repellents entertain some folks, while others securely cover all exposed skin on their bodies with bite proof material and receive the benefits of both insect protection and a walking sauna simultaneously. Do come prepared to protect yourself. Large numbers of black flies are usually gone by July. Some years, the island has relatively few. In a heavy year, they may not be completely gone until frost. (The first frost may come as early as the end of August or as late as the end of September.) Fortunately unlike mosquitoes, black flies do sleep at night.
Mosquitoes mostly hatch in standing water during warm weather. In a typical year they get off to a quick start and then slowly taper down as the summer dries out. In a rainy summer, they will stay at high numbers. At least some mosquitoes will hang on until a heavy frost finally ends their season.
Deer flies and horse flies are most prevalent during the warmer months.
Stable flies can be quite numerous during periodic hatches, mostly along shorelines. Long pants and thick socks are the best defense.
No See Ums come around from time to time during the warm part of the season. Make sure the zippers on your tent are closed really tight when they are around.
Glossary:
Mosquito: Most everyone knows what they look like, the flying hypodermic needle.
Black Fly: These look like overgrown fruit flies or a husky gnat, lots smaller than a house fly. Mostly teeth, they don't poke you with a needle; they chew a small hole to take a little blood. They love the backs of your ears and along the edges of clothing.
Deer Fly: The delta winged B 1 bomber of the insect world. Some are quite colorful with green and orange markings. The most colorful are sometimes affectionately called "moose flies" on the Island. The most persistent of this species are capable of following the same hiker for miles often trying to land on the exact same place in the part of your hair every few seconds unless you persuade it to do otherwise. A hat also helps.
Horse Fly: Maybe not be as big as their southern cousins, but otherwise the same idea.
Stable Fly: Looks like a slightly undersize house fly (somewhat lighter in color) but the soft, blunt probe is missing (replaced by a retractable drill). They tend to stay close to the ground explaining one of their many names, "ankle biter". Also known as the "fish fly", or "beach fly" for its favorite environment.
No See Ums: If you figure out what they look like you've got quick eyes. You feel them before you see them.
Isle Royale may seem rugged, but it is also fragile. The goal is to have minimum human impact. To help preserve it, follow low impact camping practices wherever you go.
Plan ahead and prepare
Natural Fire
Lightning caused forest fires are a natural and historic part of the Isle Royale environment. Some plant and animal species require fire to survive, such as jack pine. Some, such as moose, actually thrive in recently burned areas. Therefore, the park's policy is to closely monitor natural fires if certain qualifying conditions are met. Fire is a powerful force. Help protect the island from human caused fires by being careful with cigarettes, campfires and camp stoves.
Noise
Quiet hours at all campgrounds and docks are 10:00 pm to 6:00 am EDT. This will insure that all campers can have a restful experience, enjoying the natural sounds of the wilderness.
Pets
Dogs, cats, and other pets are not allowed within the park boundaries, including pets on boats. Visitors bringing pets to Isle Royale will be required to leave immediately. Pets can disturb wildlife and be a source of disease (such as canine parvovirus), particularly for park wolves.
Permits
All campers and boaters are required to obtain a camping permit on the Ranger III vessel or at Rock Harbor or Windigo upon arrival. When leaving the park, return the permit, with itinerary corrections noted.
Sanitation
The same techniques you use to avoid water borne disease will also help prevent it from spreading from you to others.
Always use pit toilets when provided, and at other times perform your toilet needs AT LEAST 100 feet from any water or wet ground. Use a plastic trowel and buy human waster four to ten inches deep. Take your toilet paper to the next privy; it doesn't decompose easily and spring and autumn frosts can bring it to the surface. Wash your hands afterwards!
Wash yourself and your dishes away from lakes or streams to avoid contaminating the park's water. Take your water to camp and scrub and rinse there. Even biodegradable soap is a stress on the environment. Wash with as little soap as possible. Dispose of used water at least 100 feet from any water source, wet ground, campsite, or water spigot. Don't wash dishes at water spigots!
Be careful to avoid contamination of food from careless handling of infected soil that may be on your hands, clothing, or boots.
NOTE: The diseases mentioned are unlikely to prove fatal, but can cause extreme distress.
Sleeping Bags
The cool Isle Royale climate makes a warm sleeping bag a must. Prepare for sudden drops in temperature. House bags or lightweight summer bags are not suitable. Bags that compress easily and are somewhat water resistant work best. Bring a foam pad to sleep on since air mattresses are uncomfortably cool and cutting tree boughs for bedding is prohibited. Remember, one third of your time on the island will be spent in a sleeping bag.
Solitude
Among Isle Royale's important backcountry values are its natural sights and sounds. You can enhance your own and other's solitude by keeping quiet in campgrounds and on docks and trails, traveling in small parties, and avoiding unnecessary noise like sing alongs or the use of radios and tape decks. Refrain from group games like Frisbee and tag, which often lead to shouting and extra noise. Enjoy the natural sights and sounds of the island around you. One of Isle Royale's greatest gifts is the healing meditative solitude available there.
Stoves
Self contained fuel stoves are a must, since campfires are not allowed at most Isle Royale campgrounds. Stoves reduce the amount of wood and brush that would otherwise be cut for fuel and in this way help preserve the natural forest cover. Avoid stoves that use specialized or disposable canisters, sincere refills may not be available and they are a potential source of pollution. Any stove used for a group should have a high BTU output, and be stable enough to handle group sized cooking pots.
A few cans of Sterno can come in handy should you encounter stove problems; it works well for keeping some things warm while cooking other things. Don't attempt to cook with only Sterno; groups that have attempted this have usually ended up borrowing or sharing the stove of another backpacker.
Determine you fuel needs during a shakedown outing. Bring 50% more fuel that you think you'll need, since heating dish water and cooking drinking water in a cool environment will require a generous supply. Check park brochures for the latest information on bringing fuel to the island.
Tents
Use tents you are familiar with and trust. This is not the time to experiment. The "lake effect" can alter weather in a very short time, and you will have only your tent for shelter. Your tent should have insect proof netting sewn in floor, waterproof fly, stability in strong winds, and cross flow ventilation for moisture removal. It should also be lightweight. A lightweight dining fly is well worth the added pounds. The park's three sided shelters are not available to groups.
Trash
Trash is a continual problem in the park. The rule is simple: CARRY OUT WHATEVER YOU CARRY IN! There are no trash cans in the backcountry. Do not bury, burn, or scatter trash and do not put it into pit toilets. As you hike, help maintain a pristine backcountry by picking up litter dropped by other visitors.
Weapons
Firearms, fireworks or any implements designed to discharge missiles in the air or water are prohibited.
Wheeled Vehicles or Devices
Wheeled vehicles (except for wheelchairs) or other mechanical forms of transportation are not allowed on trails. This includes bicycles and canoe portage devices.
Where to Camp
Campsites cannot be reserved, except for group campsites by groups of seven to ten. Shelters cannot be reserved. Individual sites are available on a first come, first served basis. The number of tent or shelter sites are limited. Be prepared to travel to an alternate campground in case the one where you plan to stay is full. At peak times, double up with another party using available
tent pads, rather than camping outside established sites and causing campground sprawl, soil compacting, and trampling. Campers must stay in established campground unless they make arrangements for off trail hiking and camping when the camping permit is issued. Off trail hiking and camping is difficult at Isle Royale and recommended only for experienced campers.
Wilderness
Wilderness is managed for preservation and solitude. We need such natural places for study, measuring the forces of natural change and dynamics, and as a place to renew the human spirit. Isle Royale has established rules and regulations governing group size, fires, sanitation, and basic conduct to help protect its varied resources as well as the quality of experience for users.
Help preserve wilderness by following these guidelines.
Wildlife
Keep wildlife wild. Feeding wildlife upsets the natural food chain and makes animals dependent on humans. It also causes them to lose their fear of humans and approach more and more closely. Finally, an animal such as a fox, otter, or squirrel may bite a human an have to be destroyed, all because someone started the vicious cycle by feeding them. It has happened here before.
Respect the needs of birds and other animals for undisturbed territory. Feeding, touching, teasing, trapping, molesting, or intentional disturbance of any wildlife or of their homes, nests, or activities is prohibited and detracts from the wilderness character of Isle Royale. Fishing requires knowledge of the Isle Royale fishing regulations.
A "group" constitutes any party of seven to ten people, including leaders. No group may be larger than ten persons. Consult group camping information to explore the possibilities for separate groups. IF THERE ARE MORE THAN TEN OF YOU, YOU WILL BE BROKEN INTO SMALLER GROUPS and required to go on separate routes. Plan to use your stoves, water filters, and first aid kits accordingly. Have sufficient equipment available. (Moral of the story – do not exceed ten persons, including yourself).
Tips for Camping Groups
There are 42 designated group sites at 17 different campgrounds (see campground chart). Use loops whenever possible; it's more interesting than backtracking on the same trail. If your group is young or inexperienced, hike a short loop and overnight at each group campground encountered.
Houghton and Hancock area Campgrounds
Michigan State Parks will not reserve group sites. They are assigned on a first come, first served basis. Plan accordingly and if possible arrive early in the day.
Distances from Campgrounds to Ranger III and Sea Plane Service in Houghton:
If you have questions, contact:
Group Camping
Isle Royale National Park
800 East Lakeshore Drive
Houghton, MI 49931-1895
Phone: 906-482-0984
For Group Camping Reservations: ISRO_GroupReserve@nps.gov
Helping the Group During the Trip
Preparation
Preparation is the key to a successful Isle Royale visit. Being prepared for whatever occurs will help you to be an effective leader. Keep in mind that the park is a natural wilderness that should be left preserved for future generations of hikers and campers. It is difficult for first time visitors to realize beforehand the isolation that is part of the Isle Royale experience. Few facilities exist in the interior. There are no hospitals or clinics. Supplies in limited quantities are available only from two small stores on each end of the island. Bring with you whatever you will need:
Help the group understand the problems of fatigue, exhaustion, and hypothermia. Group members should be able to recognize and treat the initial stages of these conditions.
Train in the basics. Include information about clothing, equipment, food, stoves, camping, water purification, foot travel, shelters, map and compass, first aid, and weather.Hold a shake down meeting followed by a practice weekend outing. Train all group members to use cooking stoves, tents, and backpacks.
Help your group learn about Isle Royale, its scenic and ecological uniqueness, its national park and wilderness status, and the type of camping and hiking they will experience here. Inquire how you might view a park video before your visit.
Preparing Yourself (The Leader)
As the leader, you are in charge! You control your group! Know the answers to these questions:
As a group leader, there are many things you can do to prepare your group and yourself for an Isle Royale trip that will be remembered as "the trip of a lifetime, " and not a negative experience.
If your groups lacks the experience for an Isle Royale trek, consider these similar nearby areas:
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