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Aerial View of Belle Harbor

Isle Royale National Park

warningPark Closure6 warnings calendar_monthJun–Augbest time schedule4 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$7entry
Isle Royale National ParkYour own route Plan a trip here →
Park Closure Tent Camping Closed at Multiple East End Campgrounds

Due to increased human-wildlife interactions and food storage concerns, individual tent sites and group sites at Three Mile, Daisy Farm, Moskey Basin, and Caribou Island Campgrounds are currently closed. Tent and hammock camping are not permitted anywhere within the campground. O Details open_in_new

Caution Harmful Algal Blooms Occurring in Lake Richie and Intermediate Lake

Blooms are tested for toxin levels and monitored. Toxin levels are consistently low on Isle Royale. It is not recommended to filter water in any areas where there is surface scum, strong odors, or other evidence of a significant bloom. Blooms move around depending on wind and rai Details open_in_new

Caution Island Mine Campground Stream Low

The stream has very little water flow. Campers should bring enough water to Island Mine or plan on collecting water along your route. 

Information All Backpacks Must be in Storage Area at Three Mile and Rock Harbor.

All backpacks must be stored in backpack storage areas at Three Mile and Rock Harbor campgrounds. All food and scented items are to be in the Food Storage Lockers. Containers should be kept in the Food Storage Locker when space allows or near the Food Storage Locker, do not store Details open_in_new

Information Food Storage Regulations in Effect

Proper food storage is required on Isle Royale. All food, trash, scented items, cooking supplies, cooking utensils, and fish/fish parts must be stored properly. To learn more about food storage and to learn how to properly store your food, trash, and scented items, click "more." Details open_in_new

Information Boat Fuel Unavailable

Fuel for boaters will not be available from September 13 through October 31 except for emergencies only. Boaters are encouraged to bring extra fuel in containers. Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Isle Royale National Park is a remote wilderness area located in Lake Superior, Michigan. It attracts visitors seeking solitude and a chance to connect with nature, offering a variety of trails and opportunities for wildlife observation. The park is known for its rugged terrain and limited amenities, making it a true escape from modern life.

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The island is home to diverse wildlife, including moose and wolves, and provides a unique environment for camping and hiking. However, visitors should be prepared for basic conditions, as facilities are minimal and camping requires adherence to strict leave-no-trace principles.

In pictures

Young bull moose browsing for food
Young bull moose browsing for food

Things to do

Become an Isle Royale Junior Ranger
2-6 Hours · Winter/Spring

Become an Isle Royale Junior Ranger and learn about the isolated island, the unique plants and animals found i...

Attend a Rock Harbor Ranger Program
20-60 Minutes · Spring/Summer

Attend a Rock Harbor ranger program at Isle Royale National Park. Learn about the isolated island, it's cultur...

Explore Raspberry Island
2-6 Hours · Spring/Summer

Take a leisurely walk along a boardwalk through the spruce bog on Raspberry Island accessible by private boat,...

Greenstone Section 1: Hike from Lookout Louise to Mount Franklin
1 Day · Spring/Summer

This secluded section of the Greenstone Ridge Trail reaches to the northeastern tip of Isle Royale. Mileage: A...

Minong Section 1: Hike from McCargoe Cove to Todd Harbor
1 Day · Spring/Summer

Try out Isle Royale's most challenging trail by trekking this more traveled section of this primitive trail. M...

Minong Section 2: Hike from Todd Harbor to Little Todd
1 Day · Spring/Summer

Enjoy scenic views of interior lakes, Lake Superior, and Canada on this strenuous, primitive trail. Mileage: A...

Minong Section 3: Hike from Little Todd to North Desor
1 Day · Spring/Summer

Trek the most challenging section of the primitive Minong Ridge Trail with strenuous hill climbs, unsure footi...

Minong Section 4: Hike from North Desor to Windigo
1 Day · Spring/Summer

Discover remnants of a wildfire, carefully trek over beaver dams, and roll with the ridges of the longest sect...

Hike the Mount Franklin Trail
1-4 Hours · Spring/Summer

Looking for a hike with a scenic view? The Mount Franklin Trail connects Three Mile Campground to Mount Frankl...

Hike the Mount Ojibway Trail
1-3 Hours · Spring/Summer

Hike from Mount Ojibway to Daisy Farm on the Mount Ojibway Trail. Explore an old fire tower on the Greenstone...

Hike the Daisy Farm Trail
1-3 Hours · Spring/Summer

Explore a bog, trek along a lengthy boardwalk through wetlands, and view wildlife along the Daisy Farm Trail t...

Harbor to Hills Section 5: Hike from Lake Richie to West Chickenbone
1 Day · Spring/Summer

Hike from one interior lake to the next on the Indian Portage Trail. Mileage: About 3.6 miles

Practical

At a glance

Established
1940
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Price
Per Person $7
Accessibility
Limited facilities, rugged terrain
Address
800 East Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
9064820984
Price
~$7
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Access is primarily by boat or seaplane, with limited schedules.
Camping permits are required and should be obtained in advance.
Pack in all food and supplies, as stores are limited.
Water sources must be treated before consumption.

Photo: NPS Photo / Paul Brown