Chippewa Harbor Campground
The Quick Take
Chippewa Harbor sits on Isle Royale's quieter south shore, tucked into a protected harbor that feels like the island's best-kept secret. With only a handful of sheltered sites and dock access, it draws a mix of backpackers working the Indian Portage Trail and paddlers who stumble onto one of the most peaceful anchorages in the park. There are no showers, no potable water, no cell service -- just food lockers between you and the wildlife. The shelters are a genuine luxury on an island where weather can turn fast, but the three-night limit during peak season means you cannot just claim one and settle in for the week. This is the campground for experienced backcountry travelers who want a south-shore basecamp with legitimate solitude and do not need anyone holding their hand.
Booking
Reserve Your Campsite
All 7 sites are reservable.
What You Get
Sites & Setup
RV Information
No RVs. No electrical hookups. Generators permitted during designated hours.
Accessibility
No wheelchair access. No Roads
Rules to Know
- Fires:Campfire rings or standing grills provided.
- Generators:Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m.
Pro Tips
The dock depth runs about seven feet under normal conditions, making this one of the more reliable harbors for private boats on the south shore. Arrive early in the day -- dock space is first-come and there is no overflow option if it fills up.
Indian Portage Trail connects Chippewa Harbor to Lake Richie and eventually the Minong Ridge, making this a strategic midpoint for multi-day crossings. Plan your itinerary so you hit Chippewa on day two or three when you are ready for a rest day with waterfront views.
Pack a gravity water filter and enough capacity for your full stay -- there is no potable water here. Lake Superior water needs treatment, and the inland harbor water even more so. Bring at least one backup purification method because a gear failure out here means a long walk to the next source.
Photos
NPS / Paul Brown
NPS / Derrick JaegerGetting There
Directions
Chippewa Harbor Campground is located in Chippewa Harbor on the south shore of Isle Royale National Park.
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