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

East Chickenbone Campground

Closed — Closed for the winter season. Isle Royale National Park typically reopens in mid-April. The 2026 season is scheduled to open April 16, 2026.

About

East Chickenbone Campground offers a true wilderness camping experience in one of Isle Royale National Park's most remote inland locations. Situated on the east end of Chickenbone Lake along the East Chickenbone Trail, this backcountry campground is accessible only by experienced hikers or paddlers willing to portage their watercraft 1.2 miles from McCargoe Cove or 0.2 miles from Lake Livermore. The campground is not located directly on the lake shoreline, making West Chickenbone Campground a more practical choice for those traveling primarily by water. The site provides basic amenities appropriate for backcountry camping, including seasonal composting toilets, non-potable water sources, and food storage lockers that comply with the park's wildlife interaction protocols. Three individual tent sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while one group site accommodates parties of 7 or more through advance reservation. From June 1 through Labor Day, a 2-night stay limit applies to ensure equitable access during peak season. Only self-contained stoves are permitted, as open fires are prohibited to protect the wilderness environment. Visitors should be prepared for challenging conditions and self-sufficiency. The terrain throughout the campground is uneven and rough, with no accessible facilities. Lake Superior's unpredictable weather can dramatically affect conditions on the island, requiring preparation for any season regardless of forecast. All visitors must obtain a free overnight permit, and parties of 7 or more pay a $25 group site fee. Pets are not allowed anywhere in the park, and quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. EDT.

Directions

Located on the east end of Chickenbone Lake, accessed via the East Chickenbone Trail on foot, or by canoe/kayak using a 1.2-mile portage from McCargoe Cove or 0.2-mile portage from Lake Livermore. No boat access available. The campground is inland from the shoreline.

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