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

Chippewa Harbor Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Isle Royale National Park opens April 16, 2026. Individual tent sites and shelters are first-come, first-served; the group site requires advance reservation.

About

Chippewa Harbor Campground is located in a sheltered harbor on the south shore of Isle Royale National Park, offering backcountry camping in one of the most remote wilderness areas in the Great Lakes. The campground can be reached by private boat, kayak, canoe, or on foot via the Indian Portage Trail, making it a destination for paddlers and backpackers exploring the island's rugged coastline and interior trails. The campground has 4 shelters and individual tent sites, all available on a first-come, first-served basis. One group site can be reserved in advance for parties of 7 or more. Boats can stay overnight at the dock, which has a depth of approximately 7 feet under normal conditions. The campground features food storage lockers (required to protect against wildlife, including wolves), composting toilets (seasonal), and non-potable water. Campfire rings or standing grills are provided at sites. Stay limits of 3 nights apply from June 1 through Labor Day. No pets are allowed in the park. Isle Royale operates seasonally, typically opening in mid-April and closing in late October or early November depending on weather and ferry schedules. The remote location and unpredictable Lake Superior weather require visitors to be prepared for all conditions and to plan self-sufficient trips.

Directions

Chippewa Harbor Campground is located in Chippewa Harbor on the south shore of Isle Royale National Park. Trail access is via the Indian Portage Trail. Accessible by private boat, kayak, canoe, or on foot.

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