Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Outer Island Nighttime Closure — Outer Island is closed to all use from 10 PM to 6 AM due to bear activity and food‑storage concerns. Day use is permitted outside these hours. The closure remains in effect until further notice to protect visitor safety and support ongoing wildlife management.
Bear Alert — Black bears inhabit many of the Apostle Islands. Follow safety guidelines: store food and scented items properly, hike in groups, stay attentive, and make noises if you encounter a bear in a visitor area. Details ↗
Construction Activity at Meyers Beach; Visitor and Kayak Access Maintained — Construction has begun on the Meyers Beach Access Path Project. Access to the beach and parking lot will remain open, but visitors should expect construction noise and closed lawn areas for staging. Kayak groups should move gear directly to the beach to reduce congestion. The pro Details ↗
Construction Activity at Little Sand Bay; Boat and Kayak Access Maintained — Construction for the Little Sand Bay Marina Rehabilitation Project begins May 1. The Town of Russell boat launch and the NPS kayak beach will remain open, with short detours around work areas. Expect reduced parking, delays, and increased noise. The Little Sand Bay Visitor Center Details ↗
Private Inholdings: Sand & Rocky Islands — There are privately occupied residences and docks on the southeast corner of Sand Island, as well as just north of Group Site A on Rocky Island. These areas are closed to the public. Please respect their privacy and do not trespass in these locations.
Ongoing Closure Notices — Devils Island dock and campsites and West Bay Club on Sand Island are closed. These closures affect only a small portion of the Lakeshore. Enjoy your visit.
Stockton Island Trail Access — The trail between Presque Isle Bay and Quarry Bay on Stockton Island is open, but a footbridge on the western portion of the trail was washed out in a 2024 storm. Visitors must wade through shallow water or take an alternate route.
Source: US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.
Introduction
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a collection of 22 islands in Lake Superior, known for its unique rock formations and sea caves. Travelers come to explore the natural beauty, kayak among the islands, and enjoy the diverse wildlife, including bears and various bird species.
The park also offers camping opportunities, but permits are required. Visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions, as Lake Superior can be unpredictable, with cold temperatures and sudden squalls.
In pictures
Things to know
Good to know
Photo: NPS Photo / Billy Flynn