Lake Whittlesey Campground
Closed — Closed for the season. Isle Royale National Park reopens April 16, 2026. Campground operates through October 31, 2026.
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
Lake Whittlesey Campground offers a true wilderness camping experience in the heart of Isle Royale National Park. Located on the north shore of Lake Whittlesey, this remote campground is accessible only by canoe or kayak via a 0.6-mile portage from Wood Lake or Chippewa Harbor, with no private boat or trail access available. The campground features three individual tent sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. The terrain throughout the campground is uneven and rough, and facilities are not accessible. Basic amenities include seasonal composting toilets and non-potable water. Campers must bring all necessary water treatment supplies. Only self-contained stoves are permitted; campfires are not allowed. Due to the portage-only access and primitive conditions, this campground is best suited for experienced backcountry paddlers seeking solitude. Stay limits apply: a two-night consecutive limit at this specific campground, and a three-night maximum from June 1 through Labor Day annually. All visitors must obtain a free overnight camping permit. Quiet hours are observed from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. EDT. Pets are not allowed anywhere in Isle Royale National Park. Be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions due to the island's remote location in the middle of Lake Superior.
Directions
Lake Whittlesey Campground is located on the north shore of Lake Whittlesey. Access is by canoe or kayak only via 0.6-mile portage from Wood Lake or 0.6-mile portage from Chippewa Harbor. No private boat or trail access.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| 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
| isro_parkinfo@nps.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (906) 482-0984 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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