Beaver Island Campground
The Quick Take
Beaver Island is one of Isle Royale's most intimate campgrounds -- just three waterfront shelters on a small island in Washington Harbor, accessible only by canoe, kayak, or private boat. Every shelter faces the water, which means you're falling asleep to lapping waves and waking up to mist rolling across the harbor. There are zero amenities here: no potable water, no flush toilets, no cell service, no nothing. You're trading every modern convenience for the kind of quiet that most people only read about. The shallow dock (a few feet deep in normal conditions) keeps larger vessels away, adding to the seclusion. This is a campground for paddlers who want a base near Windigo's trail network but prefer sleeping on the water rather than on the main island. If you need running water or company, look elsewhere. If you want to feel like you've earned your solitude, put Beaver Island at the top of your list.
Booking
Reserve Your Campsite
3 sites, first-come first-served.
What You Get
Sites & Setup
RV Information
No RVs. No electrical hookups. Generators permitted during designated hours.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible. No Roads
Rules to Know
- Generators:Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m.
Pro Tips
The three-night stay limit kicks in from June through Labor Day, so plan your Windigo-area itinerary accordingly. Outside that window you technically have more flexibility, but weather on Lake Superior in shoulder season is no joke -- bring layers and a solid rain fly.
Washington Harbor is prime northern pike and walleye territory. You don't need a fishing license for inland waters on Isle Royale, but Lake Superior requires a Michigan license. Pack barbless hooks and artificial lures only -- that's the park rule for all inland fishing, and rangers do check.
Bring every drop of water you'll need or pack a reliable filtration system -- there is no potable water on Beaver Island. A gravity filter hung from a shelter beam works well for multi-night stays and saves you from pumping in the cold.
Photos
NPS / Paul Brown
NPS / Marty Olgren
Tom BrownGetting There
Directions
Located on the west end of Isle Royale National Park, in Washington Harbor, near Windigo.
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