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.
New Food Storage Guidelines to Reduce Human - Wildlife Interactions
In response to wolves accessing human food and garbage in and around Rock Harbor and campgrounds located on the east end of the island, new food storage guidelines to ensure the safety of visitors and wildlife are in effect.
Malone Bay Campground Shelters Closed Nights of July 29 - August 1, 2025
On these dates, the Malone Bay shelters are reserved for Agaaming Aki tribal summer youth camp. Isle Royale is within the traditional homelands of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. The 2 group sites at Malone Bay will remain open.
Duncan Bay Narrows Campground Closed Nights of August 1 - August 5, 2025
On these dates, Duncan Bay Narrows campground will be closed for shelter and privy maintenance.
USCG Navigational Buoys Not in Water Until Mid-June
Boaters: Due to USCG season start-up delays, navigational buoys are not in Lake Superior waters around Isle Royale. Use caution around navigational channels. Buoys are estimated to be put in place by mid-June.
2025 RANGER III Parking Area Construction Notice: Carpool When Possible
Houghton city will be doing construction work that affects the upper, non-gated lot for most of the 2025 summer season. Parking may become limited in the NPS available lots. To help with available parking, when possible, please carpool.
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.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 - $25 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| isro_parkinfo@nps.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (906) 482-0984 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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