Island Mine Campground
05 reviews800 E. Lakeshore Drive
Island Mine Campground
$3.00 - $9.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on reservation method: $8 if made online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Isle Royale National Park, Island Mine Campground offers an intimate escape into Michigan's wilderness where solitude reigns supreme. This hidden gem, nestled just half a mile south of where the Greenstone and Island Mine Trails converge, rewards those seeking tranquility far from the crowds. The nearby Little Siskiwit River whispers through the landscape, providing a natural water source for prepared campers—though wise travelers should note that this lifeline occasionally runs dry during extended dry spells.
Island Mine Campground is a primitive campground located within Isle Royale National Park. It is accessible only by foot, offering a simple and remote camping experience.
Historical SignificanceThe campground's name echoes Isle Royale's rich mining heritage, though the actual mine site remains elusive to modern explorers. As one intrepid visitor discovered, 'I wasn't able to locate the mine either,' adding an air of mystery to this already enchanting location. This lost piece of history serves as a reminder of the island's industrial past, now reclaimed by nature and offering campers a chance to ponder the stories buried beneath the forest floor.
Weather and SeasonsIsland Mine's weather tells a story of nature's raw power, with recorded wind speeds reaching nearly 17 mph and temperatures that can plunge to a bracing 16°F even during camping season. The campground transforms dramatically with the seasons—from the challenging conditions of spring and fall, where cloud cover dominates nearly 87% of the time, to the gentle embrace of summer. June through August emerge as the golden months, when temperatures moderate and the maple canopy provides dappled shade for comfortable camping adventures.
ElevationPositioned in Isle Royale's interior landscape, Island Mine Campground offers a gentle inland camping experience away from the dramatic shoreline cliffs. The terrain provides comfortable camping spots among the rolling forest floor, perfect for those who prefer the sheltered embrace of the woods to exposed ridgelines.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of maple trees creates a natural sanctuary at Island Mine, where filtered sunlight dances through the canopy and paints the forest floor in shifting patterns of gold and green. The campground's crown jewel is its setting—as one enchanted visitor described it, a 'beautiful campsite in a maple forest with creek water close by.' The Little Siskiwit River adds its gentle soundtrack to the experience, while the surrounding hardwood forest provides both shelter and spectacular autumn displays for those lucky enough to witness the seasonal transformation.
Geological RegionIsland Mine Campground rests within Isle Royale's unique geological tapestry, where ancient volcanic rocks meet younger sedimentary layers beneath a thriving maple forest ecosystem. The campground's inland position near the Little Siskiwit River showcases the island's diverse terrain, from the water-carved valleys to the resilient northern hardwood forests that have reclaimed former mining lands. This location offers campers a chance to experience the island's geological diversity while enjoying the protection and beauty of its mature forest communities.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is accessible only by foot, which may pose challenges for individuals with mobility concerns.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious in one user review.
Sites Privacy"Campsites have little to no trees or brush between them, so there isn't much privacy if the campground is full."
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers have recommended building fires to deter insects and filtering creek water if available.
Best CampsitesReviewers did not specifically highlight individual campsites as being notably superior.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
3nights effective June 1 – Labor Day annually.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campsites are described as spacious but with little to no trees or brush between them, resulting in limited privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but the stay limit of 3 nights applies June 1 through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available for this campground.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served only; there are no reservations available.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for individual site reservations canceled after 12AM local time the day before check-in. Additionally, the first night's site fee will be forfeited.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Activities you can enjoy
Island Mine Campground is primarily a destination for hikers, due to its remote and foot-access-only location. The surrounding forest and creek provide a serene environment for nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
The campground is located along the Greenstone and Island Mine Trails, making it a key stop for hikers exploring Isle Royale National Park.Winter Activities
Details about winter activities at this campground are not provided.Water Sports
There are no water sports available at this location due to the lack of water access.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Metal fire rings are available; fires are subject to ranger approval and current regulations.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include proximity to wildlife, seasonal water shortages, and mosquito presence ("just be sure to make a fire to keep the bugs away").
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 71%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely in Houghton, MN; specific details are unavailable.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 1 – Labor Day annually.
Trash and recyclingThere is no mention of trash or recycling facilities, and campers should plan to pack out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near the Little Siskiwit River, which can serve as a water source depending on seasonality.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include lack of privacy between sites, limited water availability, and less scenic surroundings compared to other campgrounds.
Campground Map
800 E. Lakeshore Drive
Driving directionsThe Island Mine Campground is located 0.5 miles south of the Greenstone and Island Mine Trails junction, off of the Island Mine Trail.
Access is restricted to foot travel only; there is no vehicle access.Nearby places
Houghton (null miles, null travel time)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely in Houghton, MN
specific details are unavailable.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Island Mine Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Island Mine Campground generally highlight its peaceful and quiet environment, but also note its lack of privacy and limited facilities. The campground is better suited for those seeking a remote and simple camping experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the serene and quiet atmosphere: 'Beautiful campsite in a maple forest with creek water close by. Incredibly peaceful.' The spaciousness of the campsites was also noted: 'The site...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Main complaints included the lack of privacy between campsites: 'Campsites have little to no trees or brush between them, so there isn't much privacy.' Water availability can also be an issue, as one...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend checking water availability at the Visitor Center before arrival and bringing sufficient water filtration supplies. Lighting a campfire can help with bugs, and one reviewer noted...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews noted the potential for water scarcity and bugs. Fall reviews appreciated the peaceful ambiance but noted minimal amenities.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Incredibly peaceful.' 2. 'Honestly an underrated campsite.' 3. 'The creek had yellow water but it tasted fine.' 4. 'Not as scenic as the other campsites.'
Based on 5 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are provided in the reviews.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features, but the foot-only access may create challenges for some visitors.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pets or pet-related policies.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025