Birch Island Campground

Star0
3 reviews
800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MN, 49931, USA
Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietSummer Destination

Quick Facts

594 ft

Price

$3 - $8/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Isle Royale National Park site

Official Website
Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Birch Island Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary by reservation method: $8 if made online or through the app, $9 via contact center, and $3 in-person.
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

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
(906) 482-0984isro_parkinfo@nps.gov
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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 3 reviews

1 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewslocation

"Birch Island Campground receives positive feedback for its solitude and fishing opportunities. It is described as remote and less frequently visited, making it ideal for those seeking quiet and seclusion."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

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

Birch Island Campground

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

Driving directionsDetailed directions for Birch Island Campground can be accessed at https://www.nps.gov/isro/planyourvisit/boating-guide.htm.
Access is only available via canoe, kayak, or private boat. There are no major road connections.
Nearby places
Houghton: Closest city, but specific distance not provided.
Nearby supplies
Specific information about the closest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel is not provided.

Best Time to Camp at Birch Island Campground

Isle Royale's weather tells its own dramatic story, with nature's moods shifting from gentle summer breezes to fierce winter gales. Visitors should prepare for the island's temperamental personality—moderate snowfall can dust the landscape while powerful winds sweep across the exposed northern shores. The region's characteristic low precipitation creates crisp, clear days perfect for photography, though freezing conditions during shoulder seasons remind adventurers that this is truly a northern wilderness where preparation meets paradise.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 14% in MN

Open June 1–Labor Day; described gentle summer breezes and peak-season access.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
Not recommended

Campground open only through Labor Day; generally closed during fall.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Opens June 1; spring access not supported.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed outside June 1–Labor Day; winter gales noted but site not open for winter use.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 1 through Labor Day.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open seasonally from June 1 through Labor Day.
  • Current Alerts: No current active alerts specific to Birch Island Campground.

About Birch Island Campground

Tucked away at the mouth of McCargoe Cove on Isle Royale's windswept northern shore, Birch Island Campground offers an intimate escape into true wilderness solitude. This hidden gem welcomes adventurous paddlers and boaters with just one individual tent site and a rustic shelter, creating an exclusive backcountry experience. Your vessel can rest safely in the protected waters, with overnight docking available at a comfortable 5-foot depth under normal conditions—perfect for those arriving by canoe, kayak, or private boat after a day exploring Lake Superior's crystalline waters.
Birch Island Campground is a basic and primitive site catering to small groups or individuals seeking a remote wilderness experience.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
N/A
Check-out
N/A
Stay Limit
3nights June 1 - Labor Day annually.


Activities you can enjoy

Birch Island Campground is primarily suited for paddling and water-based activities, thanks to its location near McCargoe Cove. Fishing is a highlight here, with user reviews explicitly mentioning the area's excellent pike fishing.
FishingUser reviews emphasize the excellent fishing opportunities in nearby Brady Cove, describing it as 'pretty much guaranteed' for pike fishing.
BoatingThe campground is accessible by canoe, kayak, or private boat, and it provides a dock with a depth of 5 feet under normal conditions.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include rugged terrain and possible encounters with wildlife such as moose or bears. Weather conditions may also pose challenges.
Active AlertsNo current active alerts specific to Birch Island Campground.

Weather at Birch Island Campground

Reviews

0.0
3 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Birch Island Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Birch Island Campground receives positive feedback for its solitude and fishing opportunities. It is described as remote and less frequently visited, making it ideal for those seeking quiet and seclusion.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews

What Campers Love

The campground's remote location and the shelter availability are appreciated. User reviews highlight excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for pike.
Based on 3 reviews

Common Concerns

No specific complaints are documented, but the lack of detailed amenities and facilities may be a drawback for some users.
Based on 3 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your fishing gear, as pike fishing in nearby Brady Cove is highly recommended by users.
Based on 3 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The stay limit of 3 nights is enforced from June 1 through Labor Day, making this period the peak season. Weather conditions and accessibility may vary outside this window.
Based on 3 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Usually get this site to yourself but more boaters than canoes/yaks will visit.' 2. 'The pike fishing in Brady Cove is unreal and pretty much guaranteed!'
Based on 3 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The campground has only one tent site and one shelter. Users appreciate the privacy and typically have the site to themselves.
Based on 3 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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