Birch Island Campground

About

Birch Island Campground sits on a small island near the mouth of McCargoe Cove on the north side of Isle Royale National Park. This remote, primitive site is accessible exclusively by canoe, kayak, or private boat and offers just two camping options: one individual tent site and one three-sided shelter. The dock accommodates overnight boat moorage with a typical depth of 5 feet under normal water conditions. Amenities are minimal but functional for backcountry camping. The campground has composting toilets available seasonally, food storage lockers to protect against wildlife (wolf activity is high on the island), and a non-potable water source. Campers must treat all water before drinking. There are no showers, no fire rings, and no trash service. Self-contained stoves are required for cooking, and all trash must be packed out. The terrain is mostly uneven and rough throughout, with no accessible facilities. Stay limits of 3 consecutive nights apply from June 1 through Labor Day. All camping is first-come, first-served with a free overnight permit required, obtained upon arrival at Isle Royale.

Directions

Birch Island Campground is accessible only by water. From McCargoe Cove on the north side of Isle Royale, the campground is located on Birch Island near the cove's mouth. Visitors must first reach Isle Royale via ferry from Houghton or Copper Harbor (Michigan) or Grand Portage (Minnesota), by seaplane, or by private boat. No roads or trails connect to Birch Island; canoe, kayak, or private boat access only.