Is Lane Cove Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Lane Cove Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

Can I see photos of campsites at Lane Cove Campground before I book?

Yes! Lane Cove Campground has 3 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Lane Cove Campground?

Lane Cove Campground is open Rock Harbor, Three Mile, Lane Cove, and Washington Creek stay limits in effect 6/1 - 9/21.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Lane Cove Campground?

Lane Cove Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Lane Cove Campground have?

Lane Cove Campground has 5 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Lane Cove Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Lane Cove Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

Lane Cove Campground

3.72

10 reviews

Romantic GetawayScenic ViewsPeace & QuietSummer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping Michigan Camping Near Isle Royale National Park

First-come, first-served

This campground doesn't take reservations — sites are claimed in person on arrival, so there's no availability to check online. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Quick Facts

594 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Rock Harbor, Three M...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

First-come, first-served

This campground doesn't take reservations — sites are claimed in person on arrival, so there's no availability to check online. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Quick Facts

594 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Rock Harbor, Three M...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Lane Cove Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No paid fee categories listed.

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Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(906) 482-0984isro_parkinfo@nps.gov

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Lane Cove Campground

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

Lane Cove Campground

48.1449, -88.5577

Nearby places

Houghton, MI: Exact distances and travel times not provided.

Weather at Lane Cove Campground

Best Time to Camp at Lane Cove Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the clearest, warmest weather and the most reliable lake conditions for reaching Lane Cove by ferry, private boat, or kayak — daytime highs typically sit in the mid-50s to upper-60s°F with cool nights in the 40s–50s. Trails are snow-free, paddling and shoreline hiking are at their peak, and wildlife (moose, shorebirds) is easy to observe while camps remain remote and tranquil compared with mainland parks. Expect the highest visitation July–August — sites fill faster and ferry runs/ Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Summer is peak/practical season (June–Sept); trails snow-free and lake calmer then.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Rock Harbor, Three Mile, Lane Cove, and Washington Creek stay limits in effect 6/1 - 9/21.

About Lane Cove Campground

Lane Cove Campground sits on the remote shore of Isle Royale National Park, accessible only by ferry, private boat, or kayak across Lake Superior. This National Park Service primitive site offers a handful of tent spots with wildlife viewing and sunset vistas, operating under a one-night stay limit to spread visitor impact across the island. Paddlers and boaters use it as a backcountry stopover rather than a base for day hikes.

Lane Cove Campground is a primitive backcountry campground designed for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the clearest, warmest weather and the most reliable lake conditions for reaching Lane Cove by ferry, private boat, or kayak — daytime highs typically sit in the mid-50s to upper-60s°F with cool nights in the 40s–50s. Trails are snow-free, paddling and shoreline hiking are at their peak, and wildlife (moose, shorebirds) is easy to observe while camps remain remote and tranquil compared with mainland parks. Expect the highest visitation July–August — sites fill faster and ferry runs/ Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation594 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a sheltered cove on Lake Superior, framed by dense spruce and birch forest. Sites face the water, where reviewers report frequent moose sightings in the shallows at dawn and sunsets that stretch across the lake's western horizon. The island rises to 594 feet in elevation, and ancient volcanic ridges define the interior landscape beyond camp. Loons call across the cove at dusk. The setting is remote enough that wolves. Part of the island's long-studied predator-prey dynamic. Move through the surrounding forest unseen.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not offer hotel-style accommodations, as it is designed to serve backcountry campers.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are explicitly mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

1night effective June 1 – September 17 annually.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov using the website, contact center, app, or in-person.

AccessibilityThe campground is accessible only by foot, canoe, or kayak, which makes it less accessible for individuals with mobility impairments.

Total Campsites5 campsites

Recommended SitesIf strong winds are a concern, choose Site 1. For the best sunset views, select Site 2.

Best CampsitesReviewers recommend site 2 for sunset views and proximity to the water. Site 1 offers better wind protection if conditions turn rough. With only five sites total, any spot here delivers solitude, though competition increases in late July and August.

Amenities available

Lane Cove Campground is a remote, less visited campground located in Isle Royale National Park. The campground is accessible only by foot, kayak, or canoe and lacks direct boat access. It does not offer many modern amenities, emphasizing a rugged, backcountry camping experience. Reviews highlight its natural beauty, serenity, and the chance to observe stunning sunsets.

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at Lane Cove Campground are focused on enjoying the natural and remote setting, including hiking to the site, wildlife observation, and watching the sunset.

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.7

10 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Lane Cove Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Lane Cove Campground receives high praise for its seclusion, natural beauty, and opportunities for wildlife observation. Common themes include the challenging yet rewarding hike to reach the campground and the peacefulness of the setting.

Review Summaries

Based on 10 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 10 reviews.

Site 2Mentioned
Site 2 is highly recommended for its sunset views and proximity to water.
Site 1Mentioned
Site 1 is noted for its wind protection and suitability during harsh conditions.

What Campers Love

The setting is described as 'absolutely beautiful' with 'plenty of wildlife' and 'BEAUTIFUL sunsets.' Another user called it 'amazing, quiet, and secluded,' while others praised specific campsite...

Based on 10 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users noted the limited number of campsites, the absence of adjacent day hiking trails, and the ruggedness of the hike required to reach the campground.

Based on 10 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

One reviewer suggested trying to secure site 2 for its sunset views and proximity to the water. Site 1 offers protection from wind and is also recommended for campers who prefer more shelter.

Based on 10 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground's stay limit from June 1 to September 17 suggests summer is the most popular and accessible season. No specific reviews highlight winter camping.

Based on 10 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Absolutely beautiful campground. Tucked away, plenty of wildlife, BEAUTIFUL sunsets. 10/10.' 2. 'Amazing, quiet, and secluded campground. Stayed here our first night out of Rock Harbor. Well...

Based on 10 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility features, though the remote and rugged nature of the campground makes it less suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Based on 10 reviews