Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits
4.1688 reviews415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
$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 night. A $10 reservation fee applies for all permits, and changes incur a $10 fee.
About this campground
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.
Campsite details
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.
Sites SizeIndividual campsites accommodate 1-7 people, and group campsites accommodate 8-21 people. Primitive camping zones are limited to 1-5 people.
Sites PrivacySites vary in privacy, with some being highly secluded and others located near docks or other campsites.
Total Campsites83 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites with bear lockers and fire rings for added convenience. Dockside campsites are ideal for kayakers.
Best CampsitesMainland 1 for seclusion and coastal views; Stockton Island for its sunsets and sandy beaches.
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutPrimarily primitive camping zones, individual campsites, and group sites. Layout includes sandy beaches, forested areas, and cliffs.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round, with the peak season occurring from June to September.
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.
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.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
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.
Hiking
Hiking 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.'Boating
Boating 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 viewing
Common 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 activities
Beach-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
Winter camping is allowed, but the cold temperatures and snow make it a challenging experience.Water Sports
Activities like kayaking, particularly to explore the sea caves, are highly popular.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in designated fire receptacles; firewood must be collected from downed wood on the ground.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack 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.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
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
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 at Bayfield, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune to September.
Trash and recyclingAll refuse must be carried out of the park. Garbage disposal in toilets, burning, burying, or disposing of trash in Lake Superior is prohibited.
Proximity to water featuresAll campsites are near Lake Superior, offering easy access to beaches, cliffs, and sea caves.
Common complaintsRecreation.gov reservation system is difficult to navigate; some docks are in disrepair, and campsites can be hard to locate.
HostPark rangers are available for assistance, especially during peak season.
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
4.2
88 reviews
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 88 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 88 reviewsCommon 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 88 reviewsShow more
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 88 reviewsSeasonal 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 88 reviewsCamper 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...
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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...
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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 88 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed and waste must be collected. No specific pet-related reviews are noted.
Based on 88 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025