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

Merritt Lane Campground

Closed — Closed for winter. Isle Royale National Park operates annually from April 16 through October 31 and is closed November 1 through April 15 due to extreme winter weather conditions.

About

Merritt Lane Campground offers a true wilderness camping experience on the remote northeast end of Isle Royale National Park, accessible only by water. The campground features one shelter and one individual tent site, both available on a first-come, first-served basis. Boaters can overnight at the dock, which has approximately 8 feet of depth under normal conditions, making this an ideal stop for kayakers, canoers, and private boaters exploring the island's coastline. The campground provides basic amenities including non-potable water, seasonal composting toilets, and food storage lockers. Due to wolves accessing human food and garbage on the east end of the island, new food storage guidelines are in effect to ensure the safety of visitors and wildlife. Only self-contained stoves are allowed; campfires are not permitted. The terrain throughout the campground is uneven and rough, and facilities are not accessible. Isle Royale National Park is a remote archipelago in the middle of Lake Superior, and Merritt Lane Campground exemplifies the park's primitive, backcountry character. Visitors must be prepared for unpredictable Lake Superior weather conditions and should plan accordingly. A free overnight camping permit is required, and stays are limited to 3 consecutive nights from June 1 through Labor Day. Pets are not allowed, and quiet hours are observed from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. EDT.

Directions

Merritt Lane Campground is located in Merritt Lane on the northeast end of Isle Royale National Park. Accessible only by canoe, kayak, or private boat.

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