Is Lake Richie Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Lake Richie 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 Lake Richie Campground before I book?

Yes! Lake Richie 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 Lake Richie Campground?

Lake Richie Campground is open Open seasonally from June 1 to Labor Day annually.. 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 Lake Richie Campground?

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

Are dogs allowed at Lake Richie Campground?

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

Lake Richie Campground

3 reviews

800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931, USA

Peace & QuietSummer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping Michigan

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

656 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Open seasonally from...

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

656 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Lake Richie Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(906) 482-0984isro_parkinfo@nps.gov

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Lake Richie Campground

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Campground Map

800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931, USA

Lake Richie Campground

800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931, USA

Nearby places

Houghton is the nearest city, but exact distances are not provided.

Weather at Lake Richie Campground

Best Time to Camp at Lake Richie Campground

Best season: summer. Summer (June 1 through Labor Day) offers the most reliable access and the mildest weather — expect daytime highs in the mid-50s to upper-60s °F (approximately 13–20 °C) and crisp nights in the 40s °F (4–10 °C). Hiking the island’s rugged ridges and paddling on mirror-like Lake Richie are at their peak, with long daylight, calmer afternoon water, and abundant wildlife and wildflowers. Crowds are light compared with mainland parks, but weekends and peak July/August days see more visitors arriving; Peak months: July, August, June Avoid: September, October, November, December

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open June 1–Labor Day; daytime highs in the mid-50s to upper-60s and calm paddling days.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Open seasonally from June 1 to Labor Day annually.

About Lake Richie Campground

Lake Richie Campground sits on the shore of an inland lake within Isle Royale National Park, a roadless wilderness island in Lake Superior accessible only by boat or seaplane. Operated by the National Park Service, this primitive tent-only site serves backpackers and paddlers exploring the island's ridgeline trails and backcountry waterways. Visitors hike in from the island's ferry landings or paddle across Lake Richie to reach the campground, where they can fish, swim in cold clear water, and watch for moose and loons.

Lake Richie Campground is a backcountry-style camping area emphasizing self-sufficiency. The focus is on tent camping and watercraft access, making it ideal for paddlers and hikers.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer (June 1 through Labor Day) offers the most reliable access and the mildest weather — expect daytime highs in the mid-50s to upper-60s °F (approximately 13–20 °C) and crisp nights in the 40s °F (4–10 °C). Hiking the island’s rugged ridges and paddling on mirror-like Lake Richie are at their peak, with long daylight, calmer afternoon water, and abundant wildlife and wildflowers. Crowds are light compared with mainland parks, but weekends and peak July/August days see more visitors arriving; Peak months: July, August, June Avoid: September, October, November, December

Elevation656 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryLake Richie sits at 656 feet elevation, surrounded by boreal forest. Spruce, fir, and pine frame the lakeshore. The forest floor grows thick with moss, ferns, and seasonal wildflowers. The lake reflects the tree line on calm mornings. Loons call across the water. Eagles pass overhead. This landscape sits at the southern edge of Canada's northern forest ecosystem, shaped by ancient volcanic ridges and glacial valleys that define Isle Royale's interior.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Stay limit of 2 nights from June 1 – Labor Day annually.

Amenities available

Lake Richie Campground provides a backcountry camping experience focused on canoe and kayak enthusiasts. The campground is situated along Lake Richie and is accessible by foot or watercraft. No private boat access is allowed, emphasizing its remote and rugged appeal.

I manage this campground

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