Lake Richie Campground
00 review800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
Lake Richie 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
Campground fees vary based on reservation method: $8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in person. Reservation fees are non-refundable.
About this campground
Tucked away on the pristine north shore of Lake Richie, this secluded campground rewards adventurous souls who venture deep into Isle Royale National Park's wilderness. Your journey here—whether by foot through winding forest trails, or paddling across crystal waters by canoe or kayak—becomes part of the adventure itself. This hidden gem sees fewer visitors than other Isle Royale destinations, offering an authentic backcountry experience where the loudest sounds are often just the gentle lapping of waves and the whisper of wind through ancient trees.
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.
Historical SignificanceThis remarkable landscape holds stories stretching back millennia, where Native American peoples first navigated these waters and walked these shores. Today, Lake Richie Campground sits within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a testament to its global importance for conservation. Every footstep here follows ancient paths, and every paddle stroke crosses waters that have witnessed centuries of human connection with this extraordinary wilderness. Isle Royale's designation recognizes not just its natural beauty, but its role as a living laboratory for understanding how humans and nature can coexist.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this northern paradise from June through Labor Day, bringing a delightful mix of sunny days and dramatic skies. While mornings might greet you with misty fog rolling off the lake, afternoons often bloom into perfect camping weather. Be prepared for nature's full spectrum—from crisp nights that dip toward freezing (perfect for campfire gatherings) to warm days ideal for swimming. Lake Superior's influence means weather can shift quickly, with occasional snow flurries reminding visitors of the region's wild character even in summer months. Strong winds sometimes sweep across the lake, adding their voice to the wilderness symphony.
ElevationThe campground rests at lake level, where the rhythms of water and shore create a constantly changing tableau of natural beauty.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to mirror-like reflections on Lake Richie's surface, where morning mist dances between towering conifers. The boreal forest embraces the campground with its cathedral of spruce, fir, and pine, their evergreen boughs creating natural shelters and windbreaks. Beneath this protective canopy, a rich tapestry of moss, ferns, and wildflowers carpets the forest floor. From your campsite, watch eagles soar overhead, listen for the haunting call of loons, and lose yourself in sunsets that paint the lake in shades of gold and crimson. This is nature's amphitheater, where every view frames a masterpiece.
Geological RegionPerched on an island within the vast expanse of Lake Superior, this campground occupies one of North America's most fascinating geological landscapes. Isle Royale's rugged terrain tells the story of ancient volcanic activity and glacial sculpting, creating the dramatic ridges and valleys that define the island today. The boreal forest ecosystem here represents the southern edge of Canada's great northern forests, creating a unique meeting place of ecosystems. Surrounded by the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area, campers experience the raw power and beauty of Superior's influence on every aspect of the landscape.
Campsite details
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay limit of 2 nights from June 1 – Labor Day annually.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from June 1 to Labor Day annually.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations required; walk-up or first-come-first-served policy applies.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability only. Limited use due to access constraints and less popularity.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not available for Lake Richie Campground; hence, no cancellation policy applies.
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Lake Richie Campground are centered on paddling and hiking. The serene environment provides opportunities for water-based activities and nature exploration.
Hiking
The campground is located off the Indian Portage Trail, a well-known path in the area. Portages range from 0.6 to 2 miles, connecting the campground to various lakes, offering both challenge and scenic views for hikers.Boating
Access to Lake Richie is primarily through canoeing and kayaking, with portages connecting nearby lakes such as Intermediate Lake and Moskey Basin. Paddlers have noted the remoteness and tranquility of the area.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife encounters, including moose and wolves. Remote location makes emergency access challenging. Weather conditions can be extreme outside the summer season.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
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
Closest emergency services are likely in Houghton, MI, including hospitals and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 1 – Labor Day annually.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to Lake Richie, enhancing the campground's appeal for paddlers.
Campground Map
800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
Driving directionsLake Richie Campground is located on the north shore of Lake Richie, off of the Indian Portage Trail.
Accessible only via foot, canoe, or kayak. No private boat access. Portage distances include .6 miles from Intermediate Lake, 2.0 miles from Moskey Basin, 1.2 miles from Chippewa Harbor, and .6 miles from Lake LeSage.Nearby places
Houghton is the nearest city, but exact distances are not provided.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are located in Houghton, MI, which is also the administrative hub for Isle Royale National Park.
Camper Reviews
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Last updated August 10, 2025