Pickerel Cove Campground
Closed — Closed for the season. Isle Royale National Park operates April 16 through October 31 annually. The campground reopens April 16, 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
Pickerel Cove Campground offers backcountry camping in one of the most remote settings within Isle Royale National Park. Located on the north shore of the island, this primitive site is accessible exclusively by canoe or kayak, either directly from Pickerel Cove or via a 0.1 mile portage from Lake Superior. The campground features uneven, rough terrain and is not accessible for visitors with mobility limitations. This first-come, first-served site accommodates small parties of six people or less and requires only a free overnight camping permit. From June 1 through Labor Day, stays are limited to a maximum of 2 nights to allow other visitors access to this popular paddle-in destination. Only self-contained stoves are permitted; no campfires are allowed. The campground provides seasonal composting toilets and non-potable water that must be treated before consumption. Isle Royale's remote location in Lake Superior means visitors must be completely self-sufficient and prepared for unpredictable weather conditions. Services on the island are limited, especially during the early and late season, and emergency response may be non-existent. Visitors should bring all necessary supplies, including water purification methods, extra food, layers for variable weather, and rain gear. The island is home to moose and wolves, and new food storage guidelines are in effect to prevent human-wildlife interactions.
Directions
Pickerel Cove Campground is located in Pickerel Cove on the north shore of Isle Royale National Park. Canoe or kayak access from Pickerel Cove or via 0.1 mile portage from Lake Superior. No dock available for boats.
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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