Apostle Islands Camping

Camping in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the serenity and natural beauty of Lake Superior’s iconic archipelago. This technical write-up will guide you through the process of making camping reservations via Recreation.gov and explain the requirements for wilderness camping permits essential for your adventure.
Making Reservations through Recreation.gov
Recreation.gov is the official platform for reserving campsites in many federally managed outdoor areas, including the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. To secure a campsite, follow these steps:
Create an Account: Start by creating an account on Recreation.gov. This account will allow you to manage your reservations, make payments, and access important information regarding your camping trip.
Search for Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: Use the search function to find the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore page. Here, you’ll find detailed information about the park, including maps, available campsites, and amenities.
Select Your Dates: Choose your preferred camping dates. Keep in mind that campsites in the Apostle Islands are highly sought after, especially during peak summer months. It’s advisable to book well in advance.
Choose a Campsite: The Apostle Islands offer a variety of camping experiences, from individual to group sites. Review the descriptions and select a site that meets your needs in terms of size, accessibility, and amenities.
Complete Your Reservation: Once you’ve selected your site, follow the prompts to complete your reservation. This will include entering your payment information and agreeing to any park-specific regulations.
Confirmation: After completing your reservation, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your reservation details, including your permit number and instructions for checking in.

Wilderness Camping Permits
Wilderness camping permits are required for all overnight stays in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore backcountry areas. These permits are designed to help manage the wilderness character of the islands by limiting the number of campers and ensuring that visitors are prepared for the unique challenges of wilderness camping.
How to Obtain: Wilderness camping permits can be obtained through Recreation.gov at the same time you make your campsite reservation. The permit fee is in addition to any campsite reservation fees.
Important Information: When obtaining your permit, you’ll need to provide details about your group size, camping dates, and specific islands you plan to visit. The permit will include important regulations and guidelines for wilderness camping, such as Leave No Trace principles, fire regulations, and wildlife safety.
Displaying Your Permit: Your wilderness camping permit must be displayed at your campsite or carried with you at all times. Rangers may check permits to ensure compliance with park regulations.

Camping in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Lake Superior’s islands. By making reservations through Recreation.gov and obtaining the necessary wilderness camping permits, you can ensure a well-planned and enjoyable adventure. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and park regulations to preserve the beauty and wilderness character of the islands for future generations.
For more detailed information or to make reservations, visit Recreation.gov. Prepare for an unforgettable experience in one of America’s most beautiful natural landscapes.