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

Hatchet Lake Campground

Closed — Closed for winter. Isle Royale National Park reopens April 16, 2026. The campground operates seasonally through late September or early October. A 2-night stay limit applies from June 1 through Labor Day.

About

Hatchet Lake Campground is situated on Hatchet Lake in the interior of Isle Royale National Park, Michigan's remote island wilderness in Lake Superior. This backcountry campground is accessible only by hiking and features 5 first-come, first-served individual tent sites and 3 group tent sites that require advance reservation. The campground is equipped with seasonal composting toilets, non-potable water, and food storage lockers to prevent wildlife interactions. Isle Royale operates seasonally, typically from mid-April through late September or early October. During the main season (June 1 through Labor Day), there is a 2-night stay limit at Hatchet Lake. The campground's central location makes it a strategic stopping point for backpackers traversing the island's trail system. The terrain throughout the campground is uneven and rough, and facilities are not accessible. Visitors must use self-contained stoves only, as campfires are not permitted. All campers need a free overnight permit for small parties of 6 or less, while groups of 7 or more must submit permit requests through the park's online system and pay a $25 per-permit fee. Pets are not allowed anywhere on the island. The park entrance fee is separate from camping permits.

Directions

Accessible only by foot via Hatchet Lake Trail. Located near the center of Isle Royale. Detailed trail maps and camping information available at nps.gov/isro.

Nearby Campgrounds