Caribou Island Shelter #1

Caribou Island Campground

Open

Open for the 2026 season. Isle Royale National Park operates April 16 through October 31. Stay limit of 3 consecutive nights applies June 1 through Labor Day. Camping is first-come, first-served with a free permit obtained upon arrival at Rock Harbor or Windigo.

About

Caribou Island Campground occupies the western tip of West Caribou Island within Rock Harbor Channel on the northeast side of Isle Royale National Park. Accessible only by canoe, kayak, or private boat, this remote backcountry campground provides a true wilderness experience in the middle of Lake Superior. The dock accommodates overnight boat mooring with approximately 10 feet of water depth under normal conditions. The campground offers 3 tent sites and 2 three-sided wooden shelters on a first-come, first-served basis. Amenities include seasonal composting toilets, non-potable water (must be treated before drinking), and food storage lockers to protect against wildlife. A community fire ring allows campfires; otherwise, campers must use self-contained stoves. The terrain is uneven and rough throughout, and facilities are not ADA accessible. As with all Isle Royale camping, visitors must obtain a free backcountry permit upon arrival at Rock Harbor, Windigo, or aboard the Ranger III ferry. Pets and other animals are prohibited throughout the park, including on boats within park boundaries. Quiet hours are observed from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. EDT.

Directions

Caribou Island Campground is located on West Caribou Island in Rock Harbor Channel on the northeast end of Isle Royale. Access is by canoe, kayak, or private boat only. From Rock Harbor, paddle or motor west through Rock Harbor Channel to West Caribou Island. The campground dock is on the island's western tip.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed No
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $0

Vehicle

Max RV Length
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Email isro_parkinfo@nps.gov
Phone +1 (906) 482-0984

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Photos

Caribou Island Shelter #1
Caribou Island is a popular boater campground
West Caribou Island is a popular campground for boaters.
West Caribou Island is a popular destination for boaters.

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