Merritt Lane Campground
The campground is open for the 2026 season. A 3-night consecutive stay limit applies from June 1 through Labor Day. Wolf activity is elevated on the island; proper food storage is critical. All sites are first-come, first-served with a free permit obtained upon arrival at Rock Harbor or Windigo.
About
Merritt Lane Campground sits in a secluded cove on the northeast shore of Isle Royale, one of America's least-visited national parks. This backcountry campground is accessible only by water via canoe, kayak, or private boat, with an 8-foot dock depth under normal lake conditions. The campground offers 2 tent sites and 1 three-sided shelter, all available first-come, first-served with no advance reservations. Facilities are minimal but functional: seasonal composting toilets, food storage lockers to protect against wildlife, and a water source that is non-potable and requires treatment. Campfires are prohibited; campers must use self-contained stoves. A free overnight permit is required and can be obtained at Rock Harbor or Windigo upon arrival. Stay limits of 3 consecutive nights apply from June 1 through Labor Day. The terrain is uneven and rough throughout, with no accessible facilities. Pets are strictly prohibited anywhere in Isle Royale National Park, including on boats within park boundaries. Isle Royale's remote wilderness setting means campers should arrive fully self-sufficient and prepared for unpredictable Lake Superior weather.
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. Ferry service to Isle Royale departs from Houghton, Michigan (Ranger III) or Copper Harbor, Michigan and Grand Portage, Minnesota via concessionaire ferries.
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | — |
| 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
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!