READ MORE FROM OUR APOSTLE ISLAND FEATURE HERE.
The Wild Option
ON THE ISLANDS
With few exceptions – Big Bay State Park on Madeline Island and a couple other campgrounds – Apostle Islands camping leans heavily on the rustic wilderness experience. We’re talking tents and schlepping gear in most cases.
On 18 of the 22 islands there are 57 individual campsites, nine group campsites, and 17 primitive camping zones. Sites require a permit and accommodate up to seven campers, while group sites accept 8 to 21 campers. The three mainland sites are only accessible via the 6-mile Lakeshore Trail or by sea kayak.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
While Apostle Islands Cruises offers shuttles to Stockton Island and Oak Island, the other islands will require some paddling or a private boat.
Most sites have a picnic table, fire ring, pit toilet and a bear locker for your food. That tells you something about current residents! At most, you’re on your own for water. But primitive zone camping has none of these amenities, and a special set of rules you can get from the website or park office. Make reservations as early as 30 days from the trip date.
Logging was the primary commercial activity on the islands from the 1840s until the lakeshore protection in 1970.
A Little Civilization, Please
ON THE MAINLANDS
Little Sand Bay Campground
Near the national park office at Little Sand Bay is the town of Russell’s simple Little Sand Bay Campground, with 32 RV sites and 14 tent-only sites. Amenities include showers, water, ice and firewood – and all of it not 500 feet from the beach and boat launch.
Point Detour Wilderness Campground
Located nearly at the northernmost point of mainland Wisconsin, these 25 rustic sites are arranged in a tight circle at the end of a rough dirt road. There’s no electricity or water, and only an outhouse, but the views of the lake and the islands are superb. First come, first served; check-in is at the casino in Red Cliff.
Buffalo Bay Campground
Right across the lot from Legendary Waters Casino & Resort in Red Cliff, this private campground features five partly shaded, tent-only sites and 34 sunny RV sites with picnic tables and firepits along the lake. Facilities include indoor showers and restrooms.
