Duncan Narrows Campground
00 review800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI, 49931, USA
Duncan Narrows Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Recreation Use Fees vary by activity and location, with camping fees generally ranging from $3 to $8. Additional fees may apply for reservation services, modifications, or cancellations.
About this campground
Tucked away in the pristine narrows of Duncan Bay, this intimate campground offers a true escape into Isle Royale's untamed wilderness. With just two shelters nestled among towering trees, Duncan Narrows provides an exclusive retreat accessible only by paddle or private watercraft. A sturdy dock awaits your arrival, offering 6 feet of depth for secure mooring under normal conditions. This hidden gem promises solitude and immersion in nature that few places can match.
Duncan Narrows Campground is tailored for boaters and offers a minimalistic camping experience with shelters.
Historical SignificanceThe waters surrounding Duncan Narrows have witnessed centuries of human stories, from the ancient paths of indigenous peoples who first navigated these channels to the boom days of copper prospectors seeking fortune in the island's depths. Early tourists discovered Isle Royale's raw beauty, establishing a tradition of wilderness appreciation that continues today. Each paddle stroke through these narrows follows routes carved by history itself.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Duncan Narrows into a paddler's paradise, with the campground welcoming adventurers from June 1st through Labor Day. During these precious months, gentle breezes ripple across the bay while mild temperatures create perfect conditions for exploration and relaxation. As autumn fades, the harsh Lake Superior winter claims the island, blanketing the landscape in snow and ice, preserving this sanctuary in frozen stillness until summer's return.
ElevationWhile specific elevation measurements remain unrecorded, the campground rests at Lake Superior's level, where the rhythms of the great lake dictate the daily experience.
Natural Features and SceneryDuncan Bay cradles the campground in a natural amphitheater of emerald forests and crystal-clear waters. Ancient trees lean over the shoreline, their reflections dancing on the bay's mirror-like surface. This corner of Isle Royale's wilderness sanctuary pulses with life—from the haunting call of loons at dawn to the rustling of unseen wildlife in the understory. The narrow passage creates an intimate connection with nature, where every sunrise paints the water in new hues and evening brings a symphony of wilderness sounds.
Geological RegionPerched on the northeastern shores of Lake Superior, Duncan Narrows showcases Isle Royale's dramatic geological story. The campground sits within a landscape sculpted by ancient volcanic activity and relentless glacial forces, creating the rugged coastlines and hidden bays that define the island today. Dense boreal forests blanket the rocky terrain, while the surrounding waters harbor one of North America's most pristine freshwater ecosystems, making every visit a journey through millions of years of natural history.
Campsite details
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGiven the limited number of shelters, arriving early is recommended during peak season.
Best CampsitesThe campground consists of only two shelters, limiting choices. Reviews or ratings for these shelters are not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
3nights from June 1 through Labor Day annually.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of two shelters located near a dock in Duncan Bay.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 1 through Labor Day annually; closed outside this period.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations required; visitation is first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served; no reservation required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not required; therefore, cancellation policies are not applicable.
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Duncan Narrows Campground are centered around boating, kayaking, and canoeing due to its location in the narrows of Duncan Bay. The campground offers direct access for boaters.
Boating
Boating is a primary activity at this campground. Overnight docking is available with a depth of 6 feet under normal conditions. Access is limited to canoe, kayak, or private boats.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Specific fire policies for Duncan Narrows Campground are not provided.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters (such as moose and wolves), water-related risks, and challenging weather conditions.
Active alertsNo active alerts are noted.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are located in Houghton, MI, including hospitals and police stations. Emergency services within Isle Royale National Park include ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 1 through Labor Day annually.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on Duncan Bay, with a dock providing access to the water.
Common complaintsNo user reviews are available to document common complaints.
HostThere is no indication of campground host availability or services.
Campground Map
800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI, 49931, USA
Driving directionsDuncan Narrows Campground is located in the narrows of Duncan Bay on the northeast end of Isle Royale National Park.
Access to the campground is limited to canoe, kayak, or private boat. There are no paved roads or direct vehicular access.Nearby places
Houghton, MI (approximately 56 miles by ferry and boat)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, camping equipment, and fuel must be procured in Houghton, MI before ferrying to Isle Royale National Park. There are no supply stores on the island.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Duncan Narrows Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews available for Duncan Narrows Campground. The overall sentiment for campgrounds within Isle Royale National Park is rated 4.0 out of 5.
Review Summaries
No review summaries available for this campground yet.
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Last updated August 10, 2025