Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits

4.15

174 reviews

415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

768 ft

Price

$15 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

83 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Apostle Islands National Lakeshore site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

768 ft

Price

$15 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

83 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Apostle Islands National Lakeshore site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits

$15.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$15 per night for individual campsites (1-7 people), $30 per night for group campsites (8-21 people). Primitive camping areas also cost $15 per...

Standard Site Fee$15.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$30.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

715-779-3398

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What Campers Say

4.15

Satisfactory

Based on 174 reviews

148 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanwell-maintained

Some mention

reservation

"The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore campground is highly praised for its natural beauty, tranquility, and unique camping experience. However, challenges include the reservation system and maintenance issues at certain facilities. Weather and bugs are commonly mentioned factors affecting the camping experience."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits

415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814

Driving directionsFollow Highway 13 North for about 12 miles from Washburn. Turn left onto 4th Street, and the headquarters is the large brownstone building a block and a half up.

The campground is accessible only via boat, sea kayak, or a 6-mile hike for the Mainland 1 campsite. There is no car or RV access.

Nearby places

Bayfield (0 miles), Washburn (~12 miles)

Nearby supplies

Supplies can be obtained in Bayfield, including groceries and camping essentials. Kayak rental services are also available.

Best Time to Camp at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits

Summer brings a delightful dance of temperatures to the Apostle Islands, with days warming from crisp 40-degree mornings to comfortable afternoons in the 70s. Mother Nature keeps you on your toes here, as Lake Superior's mighty influence creates its own microclimate with rapid weather shifts. The lake itself maintains an icy embrace year-round, hovering near 42°F even in summer's peak, reminding adventurers to respect its power and pack accordingly for both warm sunshine and the lake's perpetual chill.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 23% in WI

Peak season (June–Sept): mild days, beach and boating access; bugs are more common in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Shoulder season with cooler temps and fewer bugs; scenic fall colors and good solitude.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Variable weather and cold water temps in spring; fewer crowds but less predictable conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Open year‑round but winter camping is cold and challenging; limited winter recreation noted.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June to September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open year-round, with the peak season occurring from June to September.
Current Alerts: Certain areas are closed to camping to protect endangered species and sensitive ecosystems.

About Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits

Escape to the pristine wilderness of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, where your camping adventure begins with a journey across Lake Superior's crystal-clear waters. Whether you arrive by boat, glide in by sea kayak, or trek along scenic trails, you'll discover a collection of carefully preserved camping experiences ranging from secluded individual sites to welcoming group areas and untouched primitive zones. Each camping option has been thoughtfully designed to match your comfort level and wilderness expertise, ensuring every visitor finds their perfect basecamp for island exploration.

The campground offers individual campsites, group sites, and primitive camping zones. Individual sites accommodate 1-7 people, group sites allow 8-21 people, and primitive zones are for 1-5 people. All camping is tent-only, with no car or RV camping permitted. Campsites are accessible only by boat or sea kayak, except for the Mainland 1 site, which can be reached by a six-mile hike.

Historical SignificanceStep into a living museum where centuries of human stories echo across the islands. Majestic lighthouses stand as sentinels, their beacons having guided countless vessels through Superior's tempestuous waters. Ancient Ojibwe legends whisper through the forests, sharing tales of these sacred islands that have served as spiritual grounds for generations. Weathered remnants of logging camps and fishing villages dot the landscape, silent witnesses to the hardy souls who once made their living from these remote shores.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings a delightful dance of temperatures to the Apostle Islands, with days warming from crisp 40-degree mornings to comfortable afternoons in the 70s. Mother Nature keeps you on your toes here, as Lake Superior's mighty influence creates its own microclimate with rapid weather shifts. The lake itself maintains an icy embrace year-round, hovering near 42°F even in summer's peak, reminding adventurers to respect its power and pack accordingly for both warm sunshine and the lake's perpetual chill.

ElevationThe islands offer gentle terrain perfect for exploration, with subtle elevation changes that reveal new perspectives of Lake Superior's endless horizon.

Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to have your breath stolen by nature's masterpiece gallery. Towering sandstone cliffs plunge into sapphire waters, carved by centuries of waves into mystical sea caves that glow with ethereal light. Pristine sandy beaches invite barefoot wandering, while ancient forests shelter towering hemlocks and yellow birches that have witnessed centuries pass. Wildlife thrives in this protected paradise—from black bears foraging along shorelines to bald eagles soaring overhead, while the waters teem with lake trout and the haunting calls of loons echo across still evenings.

Geological RegionThe Apostle Islands showcase Lake Superior's incredible geological diversity, where billion-year-old sandstone formations create a dramatic coastline unlike anywhere else in the Great Lakes. This archipelago represents a unique ecological crossroads where northern boreal forests meet Great Lakes coastal environments. Wind-sculpted beaches give way to towering cliffs, mysterious sea caves beckon kayakers to explore their depths, and pockets of old-growth forest preserve ecosystems that have remained largely unchanged since before European settlement.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in hour is not specified.

Check-out

Campsite check-out must be by 11 a.m.

Stay Limit

Visitors may stay for up to 14 consecutive nights per permit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Individual sites can host 1-7 guests
group sites can host 8-21 guests.

Groups

Group sites can accommodate up to 21 people and are equipped with fire rings, bear lockers, and picnic tables. These sites cost $30 per night and are reserved through a lottery system.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutPrimarily primitive camping zones, individual campsites, and group sites. Layout includes sandy beaches, forested areas, and cliffs.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or via phone at the park office.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability applies to public docks for boat camping, but camping permits for land sites must be reserved in advance.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations made 8 days or more before the reservation start receive a 50% refund of use fees. Cancellations within 7 days are non-refundable.

AccessibilityAccessible campsites, vault toilets, and picnic areas are available. Some designated campsites, such as Sand Island 1, 2, and 3, are labeled as handicapped accessible.

Site SizeIndividual campsites accommodate 1-7 people, and group campsites accommodate 8-21 people. Primitive camping zones are limited to 1-5 people.

PrivacySites vary in privacy, with some being highly secluded and others located near docks or other campsites.

Total Campsites83 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose campsites with bear lockers and fire rings for added convenience. Dockside campsites are ideal for kayakers.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The Apostle Islands offer a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and beach-related activities. Visitors can explore scenic trails, sea caves, and historic lighthouses. Cold water temperatures and the possibility of hypothermia are consistent concerns.

HikingHiking trails vary in difficulty, with some being well-maintained and others overgrown or difficult to navigate. The Lakeshore Trail on the mainland provides access to hike-in campsites. One user described the hike to Mainland 1 as 'hilly with lots of overgrowth and downed trees to crawl under/over.'

BoatingBoating is a popular activity, with visitors accessing campsites via sea kayaks, water taxis, or personal boats. Sea kayaking is highly recommended, with safety precautions emphasized due to the cold waters of Lake Superior. One review describes the experience as 'unforgettable!'

Wildlife viewingCommon wildlife includes bald eagles, black bears, and various bird species. Visitors are advised to practice food safety due to the presence of black bears.

Beach activitiesBeach-related activities include hiking, sunbathing, and exploring unique features such as 'singing sands.' The beaches are described as clean and sandy, with some campsites located directly on the shore.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBlack bears are common, and food must be stored securely. Hypothermia risk due to cold lake water temperatures. Trails may be overgrown and challenging.

Active AlertsCertain areas are closed to camping to protect endangered species and sensitive ecosystems.

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

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers provided at designated campsites to secure food and other items.

Fire PolicyFires allowed only in designated fire receptacles; firewood must be collected from downed wood on the ground.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are available at Bayfield, including hospitals and police stations.

Trash & RecyclingAll refuse must be carried out of the park. Garbage disposal in toilets, burning, burying, or disposing of trash in Lake Superior is prohibited.

Water FeaturesAll campsites are near Lake Superior, offering easy access to beaches, cliffs, and sea caves.

Camp HostPark rangers are available for assistance, especially during peak season.

Weather at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits

Reviews

4.2

174 reviews

Satisfactory

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore campground is highly praised for its natural beauty, tranquility, and unique camping experience. However, challenges include the reservation system and maintenance issues at certain facilities. Weather and bugs are commonly mentioned factors affecting the camping experience.

Review Summaries

Based on 174 reviews

What Campers Love

Scenic views, well-maintained trails, clean vault toilets, and the opportunity to experience seclusion and natural beauty. One user described it as 'one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been.'

Based on 174 reviews

Common Concerns

Difficulty with the Recreation.gov reservation system, maintenance issues with docks and outhouses, and challenges with overgrown hiking trails. Bugs, particularly mosquitoes and ticks, are also...

Based on 174 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra food and bug spray, prepare for fluctuating weather, and download maps or resources beforehand due to limited cell service. One visitor advises using a weather radio to plan activities.

Based on 174 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Camping is most popular from June to September due to milder temperatures. Cold weather and snow make winter camping difficult but possible. Bugs are more of an issue in the summer.

Based on 174 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The sea caves are beyond words. A must-see.' 2. 'The campsite is perched up from the beach making the view from the tent pad spectacular.' 3. 'Be prepared with an actual sea kayak and proper...

Based on 174 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

1. Mainland 1 - Highly praised for its seclusion and scenic views. 2. Stockton Island - Mixed reviews, with some praising the beaches and others noting maintenance issues. 3. Sand Island - Described...

Based on 174 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites such as Sand Island 1, 2, and 3 are highlighted, but no specific feedback on accessibility experiences is provided.

Based on 174 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed and waste must be collected. No specific pet-related reviews are noted.

Based on 174 reviews

0 review

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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