South Lake Desor Campground
Closed — Closed for the winter season. Isle Royale National Park reopens April 16, 2026, and closes October 31, 2026. Individual tent sites are first-come, first-served; group sites require advance reservation.
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
South Lake Desor Campground is a remote backcountry camping destination located on the south shore of Lake Desor within Isle Royale National Park. This foot-access-only campground is reached via the Greenstone Ridge Trail and offers a true wilderness experience in one of America's most isolated national parks. The campground provides 7 individual tent sites available on a first-come, first-served basis, plus 3 group sites that require advance reservations for parties of 7 or more people. The campground features seasonal composting toilets, food storage lockers to protect against wildlife, and non-potable water. Unlike many Isle Royale campgrounds located along the shoreline, South Lake Desor has no canoe, kayak, or boat access, making it a quieter destination for backpackers. Campers must use self-contained stoves only, as campfires are not permitted. The campground has a 2-night stay limit in effect from June 1 through Labor Day. Isle Royale is a remote wilderness archipelago in Lake Superior with unpredictable weather conditions year-round. The terrain throughout the campground is uneven and rough, and facilities are not ADA accessible. All visitors must pay a park entrance fee, and a free overnight permit is required for camping. The park prohibits pets, and quiet hours are observed from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. EDT.
Directions
South Lake Desor Campground is located on the south side of Lake Desor, accessible only by foot via the Greenstone Ridge Trail. There is no canoe, kayak, or boat access to this campground.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 - $25 |
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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