South Lake Desor Campground
04 reviews800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI, 49931, USA
South Lake Desor Campground
$3.00 - $9.00 / 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
Fees for campsites range based on activity: $8 online, $9 via contact center, or $3 in person.
About this campground
Hidden deep within Isle Royale National Park's untamed interior, South Lake Desor Campground offers adventurous souls a true wilderness escape. This remote sanctuary, tucked along the tranquil southern shores of Lake Desor, rewards those willing to journey on foot through pristine backcountry trails. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the gentle lapping of lake waters and the whisper of wind through ancient forests—a place where solitude and natural beauty converge in perfect harmony.
South Lake Desor Campground is a primitive, backcountry site accessible only by foot. It offers individual campsites and group camping areas.
Historical SignificanceSouth Lake Desor Campground stands as a gateway to Isle Royale National Park's storied past—a landscape that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries. This rugged wilderness has long captivated explorers, naturalists, and those seeking refuge from civilization. The park's designation protects not just spectacular scenery, but a living laboratory where wolves and moose continue their ancient dance of predator and prey, and where the rhythms of nature proceed undisturbed by human interference.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of Isle Royale's wilderness at South Lake Desor. Summer brings warm, sun-dappled days perfect for lakeside relaxation, when wild thimbleberries ripen along the trails, offering sweet rewards to foragers. As autumn approaches, the forest explodes in brilliant colors before winter's arrival transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland of snow and ice. Be prepared for nature's full spectrum—from balmy summer afternoons to the raw beauty of freezing winter conditions that test even seasoned adventurers.
ElevationNestled at the heart of Isle Royale's interior landscape, the campground rests at a comfortable elevation that provides easy access to Lake Desor's shoreline while remaining protected from the more extreme weather patterns that affect the island's exposed ridges and coastal areas.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanting world where nature reigns supreme at South Lake Desor. The campground is enveloped by a lush canopy so dense it creates an almost tropical atmosphere, despite the northern latitude. Towering trees filter sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor, while understory vegetation creates intimate spaces perfect for quiet contemplation. In summer, thimbleberry bushes heavy with ruby-red fruit line the paths, their sweet bounty a delightful surprise for hikers. The lake itself serves as a mirror to the sky, its calm waters reflecting the surrounding wilderness in perfect detail.
Geological RegionSouth Lake Desor Campground occupies a fascinating geological niche within Isle Royale National Park's ancient landscape. Formed by volcanic activity and sculpted by glaciers over millions of years, this inland location showcases the island's unique geological story. The dense vegetation that characterizes the area thrives in the rich soils deposited by retreating ice sheets, while Lake Desor itself fills a depression carved by those same glacial forces. This creates a microenvironment where boreal and temperate species intermingle, resulting in the unexpectedly lush, almost jungle-like atmosphere that surprises and delights visitors.
Campsite details
AccessibilityDue to its backcountry location and foot-only access, the campground is not likely to be accessible for individuals with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeIndividual campsites vary in size, but specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews highlight a high level of privacy at the interior sites. One user commented, 'Camping during August was busy so we took an interior site which was very private.'
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose interior sites for privacy and beachfront locations for social activities near sunset.
Best CampsitesIndividual campsite 1 is highlighted for its 'best water access and best pads.'
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay limit is 2 nights from June 1 through Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified
Groups
User reviews mention a group site area with a beach, offering space for larger groups. Specific details on capacity are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampground layout includes interior sites offering privacy and a beach area near group site 1.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is accessible year-round, but specific stay limits apply between June 1 and Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as the campground is not reservable.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are first-come, first-served as reservations are not applicable.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not applicable as South Lake Desor Campground is not reservable.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides a back-to-nature experience with limited recreational infrastructure, but offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and enjoying scenic sunsets.
Hiking
The campground is accessible via the Greenstone Ridge Trail, a prominent hiking trail in Isle Royale National Park.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife observation is a notable activity. A user mentioned moose drinking from the lake at dusk and swimming at night.Beach activities
The group site area is noted to have a beach, which one user described as 'nice' and a social area with views of great sunsets.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not relevant, as the campground is primarily used during warmer months.Water Sports
No water sports are mentioned, as access to the lake is limited and the site is inland.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policies provided.
Hazards
General hazardsDense vegetation may obscure trails, and moose are commonly sighted near water bodies. Swimming is not ideal due to the presence of seaweed.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11.7 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
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Houghton, Michigan.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season occurs from June 1 through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned, which is typical for remote, primitive campgrounds.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Lake Desor, but there is no direct water access for swimming or boating.
Common complaintsSome reviews mentioned the campground being busy during August and noted seaweed interfering with swimming.
HostNo host information is available.
Campground Map
800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI, 49931, USA
Driving directionsSouth Lake Desor Campground is located on the south side of Lake Desor off of the Greenstone Ridge Trail.
Access is exclusively via foot, as the campground is situated inland and lacks vehicle access.Nearby places
Houghton is approximately null miles away.
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Houghton, Michigan.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
South Lake Desor Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is appreciated for its privacy, scenic views, and natural setting. 'The view of the lake through the trees is pretty cool,' one reviewer noted. The sunsets are a recurring highlight.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlighted the privacy of the campsites, the lake views, and the opportunity to observe moose and other wildlife. The beach area at the group site was also well-received for its social...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users mentioned the lack of infrastructure, which is inherent to its primitive nature. Others noted that the lake's south side had significant seaweed, making it less appealing for swimming.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own tent, as there are no shelters. Prepare for backcountry conditions, with minimal amenities. August may be busy, so interior sites offer more privacy.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during the summer months (June 1 – Labor Day), when the two-night stay limit is enforced. Wildlife viewing and berry-picking (e.g., thimbleberries) are popular activities...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Camping during August was busy so we took an interior site which was very private.' - 'Water is pure and moose love to drink out of it at dusk.' - 'The beach area was social with a great sunset!'
Based on 4 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
User Stephen Smith noted that 'Individual Campsite 1 has the best water access and best pads.' The group site area was described as having a 'nice beach' by Eric Stelter.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features, but the backcountry nature and foot-only access suggest challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not mentioned in the available materials, and no reviews address pet-related experiences.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025