Michigan / Keweenaw County / Isle Royale Wilderness / Isle Royale National Park

Birch Island Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Isle Royale National Park opens April 16, 2026. First-come, first-served; no reservations. A free overnight permit is required.

About

Birch Island Campground is a remote wilderness campground located on Birch Island near the mouth of McCargoe Cove on the northern side of Isle Royale National Park. This primitive boat-access-only site offers one individual tent site and one shelter, accommodating a total of two camping parties. The campground includes a dock where boats can stay overnight, with a depth of approximately 5 feet under normal conditions. The campground features food storage lockers to protect against wildlife interactions, composting toilets (seasonal), and non-potable water. The terrain is mostly uneven and rough throughout the campground, and facilities are not accessible. Campfires are prohibited; only self-contained stoves are permitted. Isle Royale is a designated wilderness area within traditional homelands of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. Birch Island Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. Camping is limited to 3 consecutive nights between June 1 and Labor Day annually. All visitors must obtain a free overnight camping permit. The remote location in the middle of Lake Superior means weather can be unpredictable, and campers should be prepared for any conditions. Pets are not allowed, and quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. EDT.

Directions

Birch Island is located near the mouth of McCargoe Cove on the north side of Isle Royale. Accessible only by canoe, kayak, or private boat. Detailed boating directions and navigation information available at nps.gov/isro/planyourvisit/boating-guide.htm.

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