In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 16 United States Code, Section 3, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.
The entire Apostle Island National Lakeshore Superintendent's Compendium, typically updated yearly, is presented here as an easily navigable document. Use the Compendium Table of Contents to find the information relevant to your needs.
A signed hard copy of the the Superintendent's Compendium is available upon request, please contact Park Headquarters.
Compendium signed, March 8, 2022.
A. INTRODUCTION
Superintendent’s Compendium Described
The Superintendent’s Compendium is the summary of park specific rules implemented under 36 Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR). It serves as public notice, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on public use and resource protection regulations pertaining specifically to the administration of the park. The Superintendent’s Compendium does not repeat regulations found in 36 CFR and other United States Code and CFR Titles, which are enforced without further elaboration at the park level.
This Compendium should be used in conjunction with Title 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, to more fully understand the regulations governing the use and enjoyment of all the areas of the National Park System.
The CFR is available on the Internet at: www.ecfr.gov
The regulations contained in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, are the basic mechanism used by the National Park Service (NPS) to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources of the park and to protect visitors and property within the park. Parts 1 through 6 are general regulations applicable to all areas of the National Park system, and Part 7 contains special regulations specific to individual parks. Each of these Parts has many sections and subsections articulating specific provisions. Within some of these Part 1-7 sections and subsections, the Superintendent is granted discretionary authority to develop local rules to be responsive to the needs of a specific park resource or activity, park plan, program, and/or special needs of the general public.
As an example, 36 CFR 1.5(a), Closures and Public Use Limits, provides the Superintendent certain discretion in allowing or disallowing certain activities. The authority granted by the Section, however, requires the Superintendent to comply with the Administrative Procedures Act (6 USC Section 551), which requires public notice on actions with major impact on visitor use patterns, park resources or those that are highly controversial in nature.
Another example is 36 CFR 1.6 Permits, which allows the Superintendent to require a permit for certain uses and activities in the park. This Section, however, requires that a list of activities needing a permit (and a fee schedule for the various types of permits) be maintained by the park.
A final example is 36 CFR 2.1(c) (1) Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources, which provides the Superintendent the authority to designate certain fruits, nuts, berries or unoccupied seashells which may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption. This activity can occur, however, only if a written determination shows that the allowed activity does not adversely affect park wildlife, the reproductive potential of a plant species, or otherwise adversely affect park resources.
A copy of Title 36, CFR, can be purchased from the U.S. Government Printing Office at:
Superintendent of Documents
P.O. Box 371954
Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954
Laws and Policies Allowing the Superintendent to Develop This Compendium
The National Park Service (NPS) is granted broad statutory authority under Title 54 100101, United States Code et.seq. to “…regulate the use of the Federal areas known as national parks, monuments, and reservations…by such means and measures as conform to the fundamental purposes of the said parks…which purpose is to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment for future generations”. In addition, the NPS Organic Act allows the NPS, through the Secretary of the Interior, to “make and publish such rules and regulations as he may deem necessary or proper for the use and management of the parks, monuments, and reservations under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service”
In 1970, Congress amended the NPS Organic Act to clarify its intentions as to the overall mission of the NPS. Through the General Authorities Act of 1970, Congress brought all areas administered by the NPS into one National Park System and directed the NPS to manage all areas under its administration consistent with Title 54 U.S.C.
In 1978, Congress amended the General Authorities Act of 1970 and reasserted System-wide the high standard of protection defined in the original Organic Act by stating “Congress further reaffirms, declares, and directs that the promotion and regulation of the various areas of the National Park System, as defined by Section 1 of this Title, shall be consistent with and founded in the purpose established by Section 1 of this Title, to the common benefit of all people of the United States.”
Title 54 U.S.C defines the National Park System as ” …any areas of land and water now or hereafter administered by the Secretary of the Interior through the National Park Service for park, monument, historic, parkway, recreational, or other purposes.”
In addition to the above statutory authority, the Superintendent is guided by established NPS policy as found in the NPS Management Policies (2006). The Superintendent is also guided by more specific policies promulgated by the Director, National Park Service, in the form of Director’s Orders. As stated in the Management Policies, the primary responsibility of the NPS is to protect and preserve our national natural and cultural resources while providing for the enjoyment of these resources by visitor and other users, as long as use does not impair specific park resources or overall visitor experience. The appropriateness of any particular visitor use or recreational experience is resource-based and will vary from park to park; therefore, a use or activity that is appropriate in one park area may not be appropriate in another. The Superintendent is directed to analyze overall park use and determine if any particular use is appropriate. Where conflict arises between use and resource protection, where the Superintendent has a reasonable basis to believe a resource is or would become impaired, that Superintendent is obliged to place limitations on public use.
Consistency of This Compendium with Applicable Federal Law and Requirements
The Superintendent’s Compendium is not considered a significant rule requiring review by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Order 12866. In addition, this Compendium will not have a significant economic effect on a number of small entities nor impose a significant cost on any local, state or tribal government or private organization, and therefore does not fall under the requirements of either the Regulatory Flexibility Act or the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.
The actions and requirements described in this Compendium are found to be categorically excluded from further compliance with the procedural requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in Department of the Interior (DOI) Guidelines 516 DM 6 and as such, an Environmental Assessment will not be prepared.
Development of the Requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium
As outlined above, the NPS has broad authority and responsibility to determine what types of uses and activities are appropriate in any particular National Park System area. The requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium are developed through an analysis and determination process. The decision criteria used during this process are:
Is there use or activity consistent with the NPS Organic Act and NPS policy?
Is the use or activity consistent and compatible with the park’s enabling legislation, management objectives, and corresponding management plans?
Will the use or activity damage the park’s protected natural and cultural resources and other protected values?
Will the use or activity disturb or be in conflict with wildlife, vegetation, and environmental protection actions and values?
Will the use or activity conflict with or be incompatible with traditional park uses and activities?
Will the use or activity compromise employee or public safety?
Applicability of the Compendium
The rules contained in this Compendium apply to all persons entering, using, visiting or otherwise present on federally owned lands, including submerged lands, and waters administered by the NPS within the legislative boundaries of the park. This includes all waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, including all navigable waters.
Enforcement of Compendium Requirements
NPS Law Enforcement Park Rangers enforce the requirements of the United States Code, Title 36 CFR, applicable state laws and this Superintendent’s Compendium.
Penalties for Not Adhering to the Compendium Requirements
A person who violates any provision of the regulations found in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, or provisions of this Compendium, is subject to a fine as provided by law (18 U.S.C. 3571) up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months (18 U.S.C. 3559), or both, and shall be adjudged to pay all court costs associated with any court proceedings. You may receive a list of fines associated with any particular provision by contacting the Chief Ranger at the park address found below.
Comments on the Compendium
The Compendium is reviewed annually and revised as necessary. The park welcomes comments about its program and activities at any time.
Written comments on the Compendium may be submitted to:
Superintendent
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
415 Washington Avenue
Bayfield, Wisconsin 54814
Effective Date of the Superintendent Compendium
The Superintendent’s Compendium is effective on the approval date listed on the first page of this document and remains in effect until revised. The compendium will normally be updated and re-approved annually.
Additional Information
Some of the terms used in this Compendium may have specific meaning defined in 36 CFR 1.4 Definitions.
Availability
Copies of the Compendium are available at 415 Washington Avenue, Bayfield, Wisconsin.
B. SUPERINTENDENT’S COMPENDIUM
In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 16 United States Code, Section 3, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.
Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 1.5(c), appear in this document identified by italicized print.
TREATY RIGHTS (1842)
Nothing in this Compendium or its implementation is intended to modify, abrogate or otherwise adversely affect tribal reserved or treaty-guaranteed rights applicable within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. These rights include hunting, trapping, fishing, and the gathering of plants. Accordingly, exceptions to the following regulatory provisions may involve the tribal exercise of treaty rights including the use of weapons, traps, and nets as authorized by the treaties involved or as otherwise outlined in written agreements between signatory Ojibwe tribes of the 1842 Treaty and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
36 CFR §1.5 – VISITING HOURS, PUBLIC USE LIMITS, CLOSURES, AND AREA DESIGNATIONS FOR SPECIFIC USE OR ACTIVITIES.
(a)(1)The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for the listed portions of the park, and the following closures are established for all or a portion of the park to all public use or to a certain use or activity:
Visiting Hours:
No special determinations at this time.
Public Use Limits:
Plowing, grooming or moving snow by mechanical means to create a road, parking lot, trail or improved route on the frozen surface of Lake Superior or other park waters or lands is prohibited.
Determining Factors: Plowing an area on the ice leaves the NPS with an unmarked, uninspected road. This can lead visitors to unknown and extremely dangerous conditions. This public use limit is necessary to prevent life-threatening accidents and property loss. Even if ice conditions are perfect when a road is plowed, all ice roads eventually become unsafe. The NPS lacks the staff to monitor, maintain, inspect, or post ice road conditions over such a large area.
Picnicking is prohibited in the following areas:
On Federally owned lands under terms of a use and occupancy lease, without prior permission of the legal occupant.
At reserved campsites.
Determining Factors: Legitimate legal, security, and privacy concerns necessitate the restriction to limit reserved campsites and use and occupancy lands.
Group size on the water from Meyers Beach to Lunch Beach, and at the Devils Island sea caves, is limited to a maximum of 14 people. This applies to both commercial and public users. Commercial services are also limited to a group size with a ratio of one guide for every six visitors/clients.
Determining Factors: The purpose of this restriction is to provide a recreational opportunity that is safe and enjoyable. Visitors in these areas are subject to rapidly changing conditions and extreme winds and waves, which quickly create unsafe conditions. Limited space around the caves leads to congestion and crowding which can also be unsafe. The congestion can lead to resource damage and a degraded visitor experience.
No fires are allowed in portable grills or stoves on docks or topside areas of boats tied to docks.
Determining Factors: This restriction is necessary to protect visitors, vessels, public and private property. Open fires on vessels are in direct proximity to explosive fuel and vapors on boats and marine equipment. Placement of grills and stoves on docks create visitor congestion due to narrow walkways and safety hazards from accidental contact and tripping.
The use of remote and/or unattended cameras, such as game cameras, is prohibited in all areas. The exception is the use of game cameras outside of Wilderness during Wisconsin deer or bear hunting season, and only in areas it is permitted to hunt legally. All cameras must be labelled with the name, address, and phone number of the owner. Cameras must be at least 100 feet from any building, beach (from the mean high-water mark), facility, trail, or road and must not be enabled to record audio. All other remote and/or unattended camera use requires a research permit through the park. Cameras are subject to removal by park staff if they are deemed to be interfering with the orderly management of the park. Cameras must be hung with straps or cable locks in a fashion that does not damage any resources. No nails or screws are allowed for mounting. Cameras must be physically checked at least every 24 hours.
Determining Factors: The purpose of this restriction is to protect privacy of park visitors and allow for the orderly management of the park. Allowing visitors to place cameras in public or high-visitation areas, or for uses other than where hunting is permitted, would be highly controversial and alarming to the visiting public
The launching of any watercraft powered or non-powered, or any other gear or equipment that has not been decontaminated prior to launch into NPS administered waters within the National Lakeshore is prohibited.
“Launching” is defined as entering the waters of Lake Superior within Apostle Islands National Lakeshore from any land area, or upon moving watercraft, gear or equipment over land to access bodies of water within the Lakeshore.
“Decontamination” is defined as cleaning and drying the watercraft and/or all associated gear and equipment so that they are dry and free of any vegetation, animals and mud and that the bilges, live wells and other compartments are also clean, dry and free of all organic material. All water from the bilge and vessel compartments or containers of non-potable water (except those carrying VHS-free certified baits in accordance with State of Wisconsin rules) must be disposed of where it will not drain directly into Lake Superior or inland waters onshore at least 100 feet from any water source including shoreline, stream banks, launching ramps/areas and enclosed rainwater drainage systems.
Determining Factors: The purpose of this restriction is to prevent the introduction and spread, via park waters, of Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus (VHSv) into Lake Superior or the park’s inland waters.
Why current Restrictive Measures Will Not Suffice: The State of Wisconsin’s current VHS regulations require that boaters drain all water from boats, containers and fishing equipment upon leaving any body of water. While this addresses standing water in vessels leaving Lake Superior, it does not address the potential for sediments, fish remains, and organic materials that may still be in a vessel between fishing and/or recreational trips. It also does not address boats trailered to the park and recreational boats, kayaks, etc. These are identified as a moderate vector risk in the Emergency Prevention and Response Plan for VHSv. Therefore, the park is requiring that all vessels be decontaminated prior to launching into NPS waters in Lake Superior.
Organic material removed from the watercraft or equipment must be disposed of in a National Park Service provided trash can or stored in a closed container that remains on land, or in a vehicle until it can be properly disposed of outside of the National Lakeshore.
Determining Factors: The purpose of this restriction is to prevent the introduction and spread, via park waters, of Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus (VHSv) into Lake Superior or the park’s inland waters. The potential impacts of a VHS outbreak could be catastrophic for Lake Superior fisheries and the two state designated fish refuge areas within and adjacent to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Restrictive, park-specific measures are necessary to prevent the spread of VHSv by human-associated vectors through the proper disposal of dead fish, fish parts, aquatic plants or other organic matter.
Closures:
Park administrative, maintenance, operations, storage, and employee housing facilities, including but not limited to access roads, outbuildings, grounds, and docks. This closure shall not apply to residents, guests of residents, or persons engaged in legitimate Government activities or permitted business activities.
Except for facilities designated for visitor use, all buildings are closed to visitor entry. This shall not apply to persons in non-public areas who have been granted specific permission by the National Park Service (NPS), another authorized Federal agency, licensed concessionaire or their representatives, or those who are under escort of park employees acting within the scope of employment.
Determining Factors: Uncontrolled or unregulated access would complicate the protection of historic structures, expose visitors to health and safety issues relating to the operation of heavy machinery, vehicles and power equipment; interfere with the ability of employees to complete necessary and required business; and intrude upon the privacy and security of employees and their families in authorized Government housing areas. The risk of disease transmission in buildings is such that it can’t be mitigated to a safe level.
Gull and Eagle Islands – are closed to protect colonial nesting birds, 500 feet seaward from shore, May 15 to September 1.
Determining Factors: These islands are very small, rocky, and generally inaccessible in all but the most ideal conditions. But together, they are one of the largest colonial bird rookeries on Western Lake Superior, with hundreds of exposed nests covering the ground every year. Human activity in these areas can cause disturbance and nest abandonment, which could seriously disrupt populations of these birds over a large area.
Diving, jumping, or dropping into a water/ice area from the sandstone cliffs at Devils Island (those in T53N R3W section 10), the Swallow Point Cliffs at Sand Island (those in T52N R4W section 18), or the Mawikwe Bay sea caves (T51N R5W sections 8, 9, & 18) is prohibited.
Determining factors: Edges of cliff faces are often exposed or undercut and can lead to falls resulting in injury or death. Additionally, the areas below the cliffs have become popular for a variety of watercraft, so divers (and any rocks or debris they may dislodge from above) could cause serious injury or death to themselves or watercraft users below. Some of Wisconsin's rarest plants also grow along cliff edges and can suffer from the repetitive trampling of cliff divers in popular areas.
Climbing, scrambling or rappelling on the cliffs or ice formations is not permitted on the mainland unit from Meyers Beach to Lunch Beach.
Determining factors: The delicate nature of these formations makes them highly susceptible to damage. At any given time, there may be 1000 people or more at the base of the cliffs. If ice or rock was to give way and fall on someone it would likely be fatal. The ice is very slippery and the potential for personal injury is very high.
Climbing or walking on the rock breakwater at Little Sand Bay is prohibited.
Determining Factors: This restriction is necessary to protect visitors from slipping and falling from a significant height. This area was never intended to be climbed or walked upon. The results of a fall could be significant or even fatal.
The marina at Little Sand Bay is closed to the public.
Determining Factors: This restriction is necessary to protect visitors from slipping and falling due to extremely dangerous and icy conditions. This closure is in place until the docks and slips become lower risk in early Spring.
The Hokenson Herring Shed at Little Sand Bay is closed to the public.
Determining Factors: This restriction is necessary to protect visitors from extremely dangerous debris and potentially unsound structures.
The West Bay Club structure and porch area are closed to the public.
Determining factors: The West Bay Club is structurally suspect to the point of representing a danger to the public if not closed. The porch area and all internal spaces are closed to public entry.
The Devils Island boat house, including the 20 feet of surrounding area on all sides, is closed to the public. The Devils Island docks, including the land and water between the two docks, are closed to the public. At this time there is no camping on Devils Island.
Determining factors: This is a result of storm damage. The dock is destroyed, and the boat house is not structurally sound. Injury is very likely if the immediate and surrounding area isn’t closed to the public. There is a lot of debris submerged in this area, making it unsafe for vessels to approach or tie off at the docks.There are no other areas suitable for landing a vessel on the island.
The frozen surface of Lake Superior from Saxine Creek to Lunch Beach is closed to the public unless the Superintendent has declared the ice caves accessible and open to the public.
Determining factors: The location of this area makes the ice highly susceptible to rapid change and deterioration from winds and waves. If ice were to fail it would be life threatening to any people on it. The potential for personal injury is very high and the potential for a quick emergency response is very low. Many in the public do not recognize the risks posed by the many factors involved in ice safety in this location.
The use of “ice boats”, wind or human powered vessels or vehicles designed to travel across ice, is not permitted on the frozen surface of Lake Superior from Meyers Beach to Lunch Beach.
Determining Factors: An apparatus that is dependent on wind for propulsion cannot be sufficiently controlled in a high visitor use area. Serious visitor injuries are highly likely if it abruptly accelerates or turns. Given the crowd sizes in that vicinity in the winter, the risk of collision is high.
Launching, Landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.
Definition: The term “unmanned aircraft” means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communications links.) This term includes all type of devices that meet this definition (e.g. model airplanes, quad copters, drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.
Determining factors: The use of unmanned aircraft has a high potential to injure or otherwise harm protected species, such as piping plovers. Their use would also be in conflict with wilderness character and normal visitor use. Safety of the visitors would be compromised if unmanned aircraft were to be permitted. There are areas of the park which experience ten thousand people a day or more. Fragile vegetation and cultural resources would be at risk from landings and take offs.
The uptake and/or discharge of ballast water by all vessels within the authorized boundary of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, which extends a distance of ¼ mile into Lake Superior from every island and the mainland unit is prohibited.
Determining Factors: The purpose of this restriction is to prevent the introduction and spread, via park waters, of Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus (VHSv) into Lake Superior or the park’s inland waters.
Why Less Restrictive Measures Will Not Suffice:
Two state designated fish refuge areas are located within and adjacent to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The near shore waters that surround the islands are primary fishing areas for commercial, tribal and recreational users which have a significant impact on area businesses and local economy.
Commercial traffic is moving throughout Lake Superior, which is now known to be infected with VHSv. A small number of these vessels move through park waters, but this restriction will impact only a small portion of the navigable waters used by these vessels.
(a)(2) Designate areas for a specific use or activity, or impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity.
When the COVID-19 Community Level is LOW or MEDIUM in the county or all the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals are not required to wear masks.
When the COVID-19 Community Level is HIGH in the county or all the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the CDC, all individuals over the age of two must wear masks, regardless of vaccination status, in all common areas and shared workspaces in buildings owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by the National Park Service, including, but not limited to, park visitor centers, administrative offices, lodges, gift shops and restaurants.
When the COVID-19 Community Level is HIGH in one or more, but not all, of the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the CDC, the superintendent will determine whether individuals are required to wear masks. The requirement, if any, will apply to all facilities within the park.
Masks must cover the nose and mouth and fit snugly around the nose and chin with no large gaps around the sides of the face. Masks not designed to be protective, masks with ventilation valves, and face shields do not meet the requirement.
Regardless of the COVID-19 Community Level, individuals may wear masks if they choose to do so. Where a state, local, tribal, or territorial government where the park is located imposes more protective mask-wearing requirements than those indicated by the COVID-19 Community Level, individuals must follow those more protective requirements within the park. More protective state, local, tribal, or territorial mask-wearing requirements are hereby adopted as federal requirements in all units of the National Park System located within that state, locality, area subject to a federally recognized Indian tribe’s regulatory jurisdiction, or territory, regardless of a particular park’s jurisdictional status.
Additionally, all individuals must wear masks in or on public transportation conveyances and transportation hubs/facilities, to the extent required by current orders or directives issued by the CDC, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), or other federal agencies with jurisdiction over those conveyances or areas. As of March 4, 2022, CDC and TSA orders or directives require all individuals regardless of vaccination status to wear masks in indoor areas of all forms of public transportation conveyances, including busses, trains, and boats/ferries, and in the indoor premises of transportation hubs/facilities. Individuals are not required to wear masks while outdoors on conveyances or while outdoors on the premises of transportation hubs/facilities.
Hunting and trapping are permitted on all islands and waters in accordance with Federal and State laws including the following conditions:
No hunting or trapping May 15 through Labor Day.
Determining Factors: This time period corresponds with the park's peak visitor season. Visitors enter the park from a multitude of different directions and have access to 160 miles of coastline, and thousands of them will hike island interiors along more than 50 miles of trails. Regardless of whether they are wearing bright colored clothing, they are generally difficult or impossible to see in the dense island vegetation. This restriction only impacts a tiny number of state seasons and is necessary to ensure public safety at the busiest time of year in the park.
No hunting or trapping on Gull or Eagle Islands at any time.
Determining Factors: Breeding and nesting areas are critical to colonial bird habitat and perpetuation. Human activity in or near these areas may interfere with wildlife habits and may cause damage or nest abandonment.
No hunting or trapping is permitted within 100 yards of any building, dock, designated campsite, or facility administered by the Lakeshore; on use and occupancy lands without the permission of the lessee; or from a public road in an area where hunting is authorized.
Determining Factors: This restriction is necessary to ensure public safety in high visitor use areas, minimize adverse impacts on other users, and protect personal and government property.
No leaving hunting Blinds in place overnight anywhere in the park. Construction or use of a ground blind or any elevated device (i.e. tree stand) is permitted only if it does not damage the tree (i.e. no use of screws, nails, etc.), does not require digging or stakes in the ground, does not involve the cutting of vegetation, and it is completely removed each day at the close of hunting hours. Portable blinds constructed of man-made materials are allowed, but must be removed each day at the close of hunting hours. It is permitted to leave a tree stand or ground blind unoccupied during legal hunting hours only if the owner’s name and address, or DNR customer identification number, has been attached in a manner that is visible and legible to a person on the ground or near the entrance of the ground blind.
Determining Factors: This restriction is necessary to minimize adverse impacts on other users, and protect personal and government property.
Trapping methods for upland habitats are restricted to cage/box traps or cable restraints on Islands (except Long) within the National Lakeshore.
Determining Factors: The State endangered American marten occurs on multiple islands within the park. The above methods allow accidentally caught marten to be released. These methods are consistent with management of marten within Wisconsin Marten Protection Areas.
Why Less Restrictive Measures Will Not Suffice:The Wisconsin American Marten Committee is supportive of trap restrictions designed to protect marten and are working toward adding islands (except Long) within the National Lakeshore as a State Marten Protection Area.
No hunting or trapping of wolves on the Mainland Unit, Sand and Long Islands.
Determining Factors: The park's approved Harvestable Species Plan's chosen alternative for wolf management closes the Mainland Unit, Sand and Long Islands to wolf harvest. The remaining locations within the park are to be managed consistent with appropriate state regulations.
The areas closed to harvest are locations in which wolves within the park would also utilize either Red Cliff or Bad River Reservation lands and therefore be considered reservation wolves. Closing these areas is in recognition of the special relationship the Ojibwe have to wolves, which are considered their brothers.
Why Less Restrictive Measures Will Not Suffice: A public planning process was completed to determine how to best protect the small population of wolves that utilize the park while recognizing both tribal and state concerns regarding wolves. The chosen alternative provides that balance.
Mainland Boat Launching Sites:
The following areas are designated for the launching of non-powered vessels.
The sand beach within 100 yards of the stairway at the terminus of Meyers Road.
The sand beach at Little Sand Bay west of the Marina.
All other areas are closed to launching of vessels. Only non-powered vessels are allowed to beach from Saxine Creek to the Mainland camp site within the boundaries of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore at Meyers Beach. Holders of Commercial Use Authorizations or Special Use Permits may be subject to further permit conditions.
Determining Factors: These restrictions are necessary to ensure public safety, prevent damage to natural and cultural resources (i.e. social trails), minimize adverse impacts on other users and avoid recreational conflicts.
Docking and Mooring Areas:
The docking, tying, securing, anchoring, or storing of any private or commercial vessel or other type of watercraft at docks, slips, launch ramps, or facilities reserved and posted for Government use is prohibited. The dock at Stockton Presque Isle will have at least two reserved spots for Government use from 6am until 6pm. From 6pm until 6am one spot will remain reserved for Government use.
Determining Factors: The designation of specific mainland and island docks, slips, launch ramps, and facilities for government use are required to ensure the safe and effective use, operation, maintenance, and administration of the Lakeshore.
Docking in areas reserved and posted for concession or contract operations is prohibited.
Determining Factors: Mooring restrictions at dock facilities are necessary to ensure safe and unrestricted access for concession vessels that provide scheduled visitor transportation services and contractors that perform a variety of required Government projects or functions.
Side-to-side mooring and Mediterranean mooring of vessels are prohibited at Little Sand Bay, Stockton Island-Presque Isle Marina, and areas posted by the Superintendent. Side-to-side mooring (rafting or rafting-up/off) is defined as the process of anchoring, mooring, tying, fastening, linking, or joining of two or more vessels together. Mediterranean mooring (med-mooring) is the process of securing the aft end of the vessel to a dock and using long extended bow anchor(s) and anchor line(s) to hold the vessel in a perpendicular position to the dock.
Determining Factors: The practice of side to side mooring (commonly referred to as rafting off) creates congestion and a significant navigational hazard for vessels that are entering, leaving, or maneuvering at marinas and docks due to shallow water. Improperly secured vessels increase the potential for visitor injury and property damage from collision and severe and unexpected movement of vessels due to abrupt changes in lake conditions. Med-mooring creates navigational hazards at small, shallow docks and harbors.
Leaving a vessel unattended at a public dock more than 24 hours is prohibited.
Determining Factors: Public docks are provided for the temporary convenience of visitors engaged in day use activities to safely access park locations, and for the use of their vessel for overnight accommodations. This is necessary due to limited dock space, to accommodate as many visitors as possible and allow safe and emergency access to high visitor use locations. Without time limits, unattended vessels limit public access for extended periods and interfere with safe navigation and emergency operations. Weather and conditions can change quickly, vessels need to be checked on at least daily to ensure lines aren’t chafing or broken and bilge pumps are working. Overnight dock fees can be renewed at that time.
Overnight docking fees apply to all vessels and watercraft secured to any park dock or beached between the docks at the Stockton Presque-Isle Marina for longer than 30 minutes between 6pm to 6am. This includes vessels that are secured together by rafting and/or Mediterranean mooring (med-mooring). Med-mooring is the process of securing the aft end of the vessel to a dock and using long extended bow anchor(s) and anchor rope(s) to hold the vessel in a perpendicular position to the dock.
Determining Factors: Docking fees provide financial support for related maintenance projects. The fees apply only to overnight use, longer than 30 minutes.
Water Skiing/Towing Areas:
The towing of person(s) by vessels in the Lakeshore is allowed on Lake Superior except in the following locations:
Within 100 feet of any dock, marina, anchored boat, boat landing or shoreline.
Within ¼ mile of any shoreline adjacent to any light station or sea cave (geologic rock) formation (see map, appendix D).
Presque Isle Bay, Quarry Bay and Julian Bay (Stockton Island).
Determining Factors: These restrictions are necessary to ensure public safety, protection of park resources, eliminate congestion in high visitor use areas and reduce navigational hazards for vessels entering, leaving or maneuvering at heavily used dock facilities and anchorages.
Swimming:
The following locations are closed to swimming and wading:
Within 100 feet of all NPS harbors, docks, launch ramps, marinas, mooring areas and vessels secured to NPS public docks.
Determining Factors: Motorized vessels can cause serious injury or death to a swimmer or person wading.
Why Less Restrictive Measures Will Not Suffice: The high potential for conflicting uses between swimmers, waders and motorized vessels may affect the safety of visitors. It is paramount to ensure public safety and minimize conflict.
Operation of a Generator at an Anchorage:
Operation of a generator aboard a vessel at a dock or anchorage is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Operation of a gas generator on the dock or otherwise not aboard a vessel is prohibited at all times.
Determining Factors: Use of generators adds an unnatural sound to a natural setting and experience. It also makes sufficient noise that is unreasonable for time periods that campers and boaters are enjoying their camping experience. Most docks and anchorages are located directly adjacent to or near campsites and developed visitor use areas. Noise that occurs in water areas carries over long distances. Loud noises are unexpected and interfere with the visitor’s opportunity to enjoy quiet and natural soundscapes. Generators on docks are tripping and burn hazards and could experience leakage of fuel into the water or onto the dock.
Filming
The following types of filming activities may occur in areas open to the public without a permit and without advance notice to the NPS:
Outdoor filming activities [outside of areas managed as wilderness involving five persons or less and equipment that will be carried at all times, except for small tripods used to hold cameras.
The organizer of any other type of filming activity must provide written notice to the Superintendent at least 10 days prior to the start of the proposed activity. Based upon the information provided, the Superintendent may require the organizer to apply for and obtain a permit if necessary to:
maintain public health and safety;
protect environmental or scenic values;
protect natural or cultural resources;
allow for equitable allocation and use of facilities; or
avoid conflict among visitor use activities.
If the Superintendent determines that the terms and conditions of a permit could not mitigate the concerns identified above in an acceptable manner, the Superintendent may deny a filming request without issuing a permit. The Superintendent will provide the basis for denial in writing upon request.
The NPS will consider requests and process permit applications in a timely manner. Processing times will vary depending on the complexity of the proposed activity. If the organizer provides the required 10-day advance notice to the NPS and has not received a written response from the NPS that a permit is required prior to the first day of production, the proposed filming activities may occur without a permit.
The following are prohibited:
Engaging in a filming activity without providing advance notice to the Superintendent when required.
Engaging in a filming activity without a permit if the activity takes place in areas managed as wilderness or if the Superintendent has notified the organizer in writing that a permit is required.
Violating a term and condition of a permit issued under this action.
Violating a term or condition of a permit issued under to this action may also result in the suspension and revocation of the permit by the Superintendent.
Determining Factors: The National Park Service has seen an increase in low impact filming activities within park areas. These activities involve minimal equipment and crews, such as individuals or small groups that film using smartphones or other handheld devices, in many cases with nothing more than a tripod for equipment. These types of productions are highly unlikely to need a permit because the potential for impacts to resources and the visitor experience is no greater than the potential for impacts from visitors engaged in casual filming. This is true whether or not the footage is used for commercial purposes, such as by posting footage online for profit. Other filming activities must be proposed to the NPS in advance so that the superintendent can determine whether a permit is required.
The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the superintendent is required:
§2.1(a)(5) Scuba diving on submerged cultural resources (e.g. shipwrecks)
§2.2(b)(4) Hunting/Trapping (Access Permit) in compliance with State law, NR10.(104)15
§2.5(a) Specimen collection (Take plant, fish, wildlife, rocks or minerals)
§2.10(a) The following camping activities: Overnight camping at designated campsites and overnight camping in designated camping zones, non-developed areas
§2.12 Audio Disturbances
(a)(2) Operating a chain saw in developed areas
(a)(3) Operating any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine in non-developed areas
(a)(4) Operating a public address system, except in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to §2.50 or §2.51
§2.17 Aircraft & Air Delivery:
(a)(3) Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means
(c)(1) Removal of a downed aircraft
§2.23(b) The following special recreation activities (per 36 CFR Part 71):
Parking Fees at Meyers Beach
Overnight Docking Fees at public docks
Interpretive Fees for tours and programs
§2.37 Soliciting or demanding gifts, money goods or services (Pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit issued under §2.50, §2.51 or §2.52
§2.38 Explosives
(a) Use, possess, store, transport explosives, blasting agents
(b) Use or possess fireworks
§2.50(a) Conduct a sports event, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, entertainment, ceremony, and similar events
§2.51 Demonstrations
§2.52 Sale or distribution of printed matter
§2.62 Memorialization: (b) Scattering ashes from human cremation
§4.11(a) Exceeding of established vehicle load, weight and size limits
§5.1 Advertisements - (Display, posting or distribution.)
§5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business (Requires a permit, contract or other written agreement with the United States, or must be pursuant to special regulations).
§5.5 Commercial Photography/Filming:
Commercial filming of motion pictures or television involving the use of professional casts, settings or crews, other than bona fide newsreel or news television.
Still photography of vehicles, or other articles of commerce or models for the purpose of commercial advertising.
36 CFR §2.1 – PRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES:
(a)(4) Dead wood, including loose driftwood found on the ground (not buried) may be collected for use as fuel for campfires within the park except the following locations:
On Federally owned lands under terms of a use and occupancy lease, without prior permission of the legal occupant.
From vegetated portions of island beaches. “Vegetated portions” are defined as sand beach locations containing shoreline grasses, shrubs and/or small plants.
Firewood must be used on the island where it is collected.
Transporting firewood from the mainland or between islands is prohibited.
The possession of firewood in a motor vehicle, vessel, or other mode of transportation is prohibited.
(a)(5) The following conditions are in effect for walking, climbing, entering, ascending or traversing the listed archeological or cultural resource, monuments or statues:
The historic Devils, Long, Michigan, Outer, Raspberry, Ashland, and Sand Island light stations and associated buildings may be entered, ascended, and descended by the general public only at such times when the structures are open to the public and only under the supervision of an NPS employee or designated park volunteer. Touching or handling of historic or modern navigational aids and related components is prohibited.
Use of candles, lanterns, and other portable appliances or devices with an open flame inside or on the grounds of historic structures are prohibited.
No person shall smoke, eat, drink, or utilize any type of food product inside historic buildings, including all primary and secondary structures associated with the light stations and fish camps. The superintendent may issue exceptions for specific events or programs and living quarters designated for employee occupancy.
Anchoring or tying a vessel to submerged cultural resources is prohibited.
(c)(1), (c)(2) The following fruits, nuts, berries or unoccupied seashells may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption, in accordance with the noted size, quantity, collection sites and/or use or consumption restrictions:
Native fruits (except apples) and berries: all species (not listed as nationally or state threatened or endangered species) and in quantities not greater than one (1) gallon per person per week.
Apples: in quantities not greater than five (5) gallons per person per week.
Mushrooms: all edible mushrooms (not listed as nationally or state threatened or endangered species) and in quantities not greater than one (1) gallon per person per week.
The collection of wildflowers is prohibited.
Determining Factors: The gathering of fruits, nuts, berries, mushrooms, and apples in the quantities identified will not have an adverse effect on the species population using the traditional harvest methods of hand gathering. Gathering the aforementioned items can be done without harming the source plant species or substantially impacting the surrounding natural resources. The allowable species exist in quantities that will sustain the established harvest amounts.
36 CFR §2.2 - WILDLIFE PROTECTION:
(a) Baiting is prohibited. Clarification of 36 CFR 2.2 (a)(2):
Determining Factors: Under 36 CFR 2.2 (a) The following are prohibited: (a)(2) “The feeding, touching, teasing, frightening or intentional disturbing of wildlife nesting, breeding or other activities.” Feeding includes baiting for the purpose of attracting animals for hunting or trapping as well as any other form of feeding wildlife that is not being hunted or trapped. Baiting is considered feeding and is prohibited by 36 CFR 2.2 (a)(2).
Why Less Restrictive Measures Will Not Suffice:
Baiting/feeding of wildlife can change wildlife behavior and cause unnatural concentrations of wildlife, making them more vulnerable to disease.
Baiting can introduce exotic invasive species which harm natural ecosystems. Under 36 CFR2.1 (a) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the following is prohibited: (2) Introducing wildlife, fish or plants, including their reproductive bodies, into a park area ecosystem.”
(d) The transporting of lawfully taken wildlife through the park is permitted under the following conditions and procedures:
The carcass must be tagged and transported in accordance with state law.
(e) The following areas are closed to the viewing of wildlife with the use of an artificial light:
All areas of the park
36 CFR §2.3 – FISHING:
(d)(4) In accordance with federal statutory law, commercial fishing is authorized in the following areas, under the conditions noted:
Lake Superior waters as permitted by state regulations.
(d)(8) Fishing is allowed in or from the following otherwise prohibited areas:
Public boat docks at:
Basswood Island
Devils Island
Little Sand Bay
Long Island
Manitou Island
Michigan Island
Oak Island
Otter Island
Outer Island
Raspberry Island
Rocky Island
Sand Island
South Twin Island
Stockton Presque Isle
Stockton Quarry Bay
Fishing:
Only artificial bait may be used for fishing inland waters on any island within Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
For all other waters, only bait allowed by state law is permitted.
Determining Factors: The purpose of this restriction is to prevent the introduction and spread, via park waters, of Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus (VHSv) into Lake Superior, or the park’s inland waters.
Why Less Restrictive Measures Will Not Suffice:
The potential VHS-positive water sources for bait fish and fish parts increase because Apostle Island’s visitor base is from several states.
Fishing at Apostle Islands is a primary attraction and recreational activity for visitors. There is no effective way to prevent anglers from combining bait from different sources after purchase or to detect when it has occurred
36 CFR §2.4 – WEAPONS, TRAPS, AND NETS:
(h) Notwithstanding any other provision in this Chapter, a person may possess, carry, and transport concealed, loaded, and operable firearms within a national park area in accordance with the laws of the state in which the national park area, or that portion thereof, is located, except as otherwise prohibited by applicable Federal law.
This authority does not extend to Federal facilities within the park (18 USC § 930(a)). Federal facilities include:
All NPS visitor centers, contact stations, and ranger stations
All NPS administrative facilities (e.g. offices, maintenance buildings, utility buildings, and fenced/locked compounds)
All buildings accessible to the public only when accompanied by NPS staff or volunteers (e.g. light station buildings)
All NPS housing units
This authority does not extend to US Coast Guard Certificated Tour Boats.
(a) The sites and areas listed below have been designated for camping activities as noted. A permit system has been established for certain campgrounds or camping activities, and conditions for camping and camping activities are in effect as noted:
Island
No. of Individual Sites
Group Campsites
Primitive Camping Zones
Basswood
6
A
1
Bear
0
0
1
Cat
1
0
1
Devils
1
0
0
Hermit
0
0
1
Ironwood
1
0
1
Long
1
0
0
Mainland
1
0
0
Manitou
1
0
1
Michigan
1
0
1
North Twin
0
0
1
Oak
5
A, B
2
Otter
1
0
1
Outer
1
0
2
Raspberry
0
0
1
Rocky
5
A
1
Sand
6
A, B, C
1
South Twin
4
0
1
Stockton
19
A, B
2
York
3
0
0
Camping:
Please refer to 36 CFR §2.10 for detailed camping area designations.
Camping permits are non-transferable.
Use of the campsite reservation system is for overnight camping only.
Campsite reservations are allowed up to 14 consecutive days.
Reservations for individual campsites and camping zones can be made up to 30 days in advance.
Reservations for group campsites can be made during or after the annual group camping lottery for the calendar year.
Fees must be paid at the time the reservation is made or changed.
Fees will not be charged for itinerary changes relating to severe weather conditions.
Campers choosing to make itinerary changes for other reasons within seven days of the beginning of the trip, or during the trip, will be charged a $15.00 fee each time they make a change to the itinerary. (There is no fee charged if changes are made eight or more days before the start of the trip.)
Permits may be printed seven days in advance of your scheduled arrival date. Permit holders must print and bring their permit with them or pick up their permit at the Bayfield headquarters before 4:30 pm on the first day of the trip; otherwise the reservation will be cancelled.
Responsibility for compliance with permit conditions applies to the applicant, group, organization, and commercial entity that utilizes the permit.
Individual campsites are limited to a maximum of seven campers and three tents.
Group campsites are limited to parties comprised of eight up to twenty-one (8-21) campers. Individual sites accommodate parties of 1-7 individuals. If the number in a party is 8-21, a group campsite is required. Groups must camp in group campsites.
Checkout time for leaving campsites is 11:00 a.m.
Park users must pack out all food scraps and garbage. Burning or burying food scraps or garbage is prohibited.
Gray water must be strained, and the food residues properly stored and packed out as garbage. Strained gray water must be broadcast on the ground at least 50 yards from camping and picnic areas or disposed of in a vault toilet.
Camping with bear dogs or sled dogs is allowed at group campsites only.
Primitive Camping Zones:
Maximum of five campers
A quota exists for the number of permits that can be issued for each camping zone per night. Most zones can only have one permit per night, but larger islands (like Oak, Stockton, and Outer) may have quotas of two or more permits per night.
May camp on the sand beach below the vegetation line.
Camping outside of designated campsites is authorized only within primitive camping zones, by permit.
NO camping:
Within view of any designated trail.
Within 1/4 mile of any building, individual or group campsite, or another camping party in a primitive camping zone.
Within 100 feet of a flowing stream.
On USE and OCCUPANCY lands by anyone except USE and OCCUPANCY holders and guests.
On Eagle or Gull Islands.
In areas closed to protect archeological sites, bird nesting areas, sensitive vegetation, or threatened / endangered species. Specific areas and the extent of the closures will be identified each camping season.
On the frozen surface of Lake Superior within the boundaries of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore from the Western boundary at Saxine Creek to the beginning of Lunch Beach.
Determining Factors: The appearance of tents at the ice caves would detract from the natural beauty people expect to see at the caves. There is no way to dispose of human waste except for packing it out.
Conditions for the storage of food are in effect, as noted, for the following areas:
For all designated campsites, primitive camping zones and docks:
Food, food scraps, residue from cooking and cleaning, garbage, fish, cooking materials, condiments, utensils and toiletries must be secured from wildlife contact in bear-proof storage lockers, secured galley areas of boats or disposed of in authorized garbage facilities.
The use of hard bear proof canisters commercially manufactured for this purpose and approved by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee, for personal backcountry food storage is allowed. Canisters must be stored in an area outside of the camp, and are recommended to be hung when possible.
Grills, cook stoves, and utensils may not be left unattended until they have been thoroughly cleaned of all food scraps or stored in facilities inaccessible to wildlife. Proper storage facilities include bear-proof lockers and secured galley areas of boats.
If bear proof storage lockers or closed vessels are not available, all food, garbage, cooking materials, condiments, utensils, and toiletries must be secured from wildlife contact.
Wildlife harvested by hunters during designated hunting seasons must be secured from all wildlife contact. Acceptable storage includes bear proof lockers or suspending large animals such as deer at a sufficient height between trees at least 100 yards from any designated camping area.
36 CFR §2.11 – PICNICKING:
Certain areas have been closed to picnicking and are listed in section 1.5(a)(1) “Closures”.
A maximum of seven individuals may use an unreserved and unoccupied campsite for picnicking and/or day use activities.
Park users must pack out all food scraps and garbage. Burning or burying food scraps or garbage is prohibited.
36 CFR 2.13 – FIRES:
(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is generally prohibited, except as provided for in the following designated areas and/or receptacles, and under the conditions noted:
In Designated Areas:
Beach fires are allowed on sand beaches below the vegetation line, at such distance that use of fire will not result in trampling or damage to beach and shoreline vegetation.
Fires are prohibited on Stockton Island beaches at Presque Isle Bay and Julian Bay; all beaches on Raspberry Island; Meyers Beach, and beach locations within 150 feet of developed areas, and docks.
Established Conditions for Fires:
Beach and campfires may not be larger than 3 feet height or diameter.
Burning or placing garbage, food, or food scraps in fires is prohibited.
(b) Fires must be extinguished according to the following conditions:
Any remnants of a fire must be extinguished, cold to the touch, free of litter with no evidence of food remains that could attract wildlife and remnants dispersed.
36 CFR §2.14 – SANITATION and REFUSE:
(b) Conditions for the disposal, containerization, or carryout of human body waste have been established as follows:
All persons must properly dispose of human waste by making use of provided toilet facilities where available. In areas without toilets, solid (fecal) human waste will be buried at least 6 inches below ground, no less than 200 yards from any water source. Toilet paper must be packed out of the lakeshore. All bathing and washing, including dishwashing, will be done with biodegradable soaps no less than 200 feet from any water source to prevent wash water from being introduced into the water source. All other activity generated debris will be collected and disposed of outside of the lakeshore.
When traveling over snow fields or the frozen surface of Lake Superior in the winter when organic soils are not exposed, solid human waste must be buried on land, in the snow, at least 200 feet from any established travel route to a depth of two feet or down to soil.
36 CFR §2.15 – PETS:
(a)(1) The following structures and/or areas are closed to the possession of pets:
Dogs, cats and other pets, except certified service animals, are prohibited in all public buildings, and historic structures.
(a)(5) Pet excrement must be disposed of in accordance with the following conditions:
Pet excrement must be immediately collected and disposed of in the nearest trash receptacle or deposited in a forested area at least 200 feet from any trail, campsite, beach, dock or water source.
When traveling over snow fields or the frozen surface of Lake Superior in the winter when organic soils are not exposed, pet excrement must be disposed of on land, in the snow, at least 200 feet from any established travel route.
(b) The use of dogs in support of hunting and winter dog sledding must be in accordance with Federal and State laws and the following conditions:
No person or party may have more than six (6) dogs present on any island.
Are only allowed off leash when actively engaged in hunting activities.
The use of straw, hay or natural (organic) products for pet bedding is prohibited.
Staking or securing dogs on sand spits or sand beaches is prohibited.
(e) Pets may be kept by park residents under the following conditions:
As authorized by the park housing plan and approved by the superintendent.
36 CFR §2.18 – SNOWMOBILES:
(c) Snowmobiles may be operated only on routes designated in 36 CFR section §7.82
36 CFR §2.19 – WINTER ACTIVITIES:
(a) The following park roads and/or parking areas open to motor vehicle traffic may be used for skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, inner tubing, tobogganing, and similar winter activities under the conditions noted:
All unplowed roads and unplowed parking areas are open to skiing, inner tubing, tobogganing, or similar non-motorized winter sports.
36 CFR §2.21 – SMOKING:
(a) The following portions of the park, or all or portions of buildings, structures or facilities are closed to smoking, to include electronic smoking devices (ESDs), as noted:
All Government buildings and facilities.
All Government quarters, except designated permanent employee living quarters.
All Government vehicles and vessels.
All historic structures.
The Superintendent may prohibit smoking in historic and cultural management areas and other locations as posted.
Concession/CUA vessels used for visitor transportation services, US Coast Guard regulations.
Determining Factors: These restrictions are necessary to protect park resources by reducing the risk and threat of fire, prevent conflicts among visitor use activities, and public health concerns.
36 CFR §2.22 – PROPERTY:
(a)(2) Property may be left unattended for periods longer than 24 hours in the following areas and under the following conditions:
Visitors with camping permits for designated campsites and primitive camping zones may leave their motor vehicle unattended at the Little Sand Bay parking lot or the Meyers Beach parking lot after prepaying the parking fee.
(b) Recreation fees, and/or a permit, in accordance with 36 CFR part 71, are established for the following entrance fee areas, and/or for the use of the following specialized sites, facilities, equipment or services, or for participation in the following group activity, recreation events or specialized recreation uses:
Daily Site Use Fee Areas
Fee (dollars)
Camping Reservation Fee
$10
Camping Reservation Change Fee
$15
Individual Campsite per night
$15
Primitive Camping Zone per night
$15
Group Site per night
$30
Ice Cave Recreational Permit Fee
Fee (dollars)
Individual 16 or older
$5
Individual 16 or older (season pass)
$10
Individual 15 or younger, free
$0
Docking (per boat, per night, between hours of 6pm and 6am)
Fee (dollars)
Overnight docking, boats less than 40 feet
$15
Overnight docking, boats 40 feet and greater
$30
Interpretive Programs (regularly scheduled on or off site)
Fee (dollars)
Per Child
$3
Per Adult
$5
Per Family
$10
Parking (Vehicle length includes the length of a trailer)
Fee (dollars)
Meyers Beach, vehicle less than 20 feet
$5
Meyers Beach, vehicle 20 feet or greater
$8
Meyers Beach annual parking pass, vehicle less than 20 feet
$25
Meyers Beach annual parking pass, vehicle 20 feet or greater
$40
Bayfield HQ overnight
$10
Bayfield HQ special event
$10
36 CFR §2.35 –ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES:
(a)(3)(i) The following public use areas, portions of public use areas, and/or public facilities within the park are closed to consumption of alcoholic beverages, and/or to the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or has been opened, or whose seal has been broken or the contents of which have been partially removed:
The following buildings and facilities open to the public and used for government business, including interpretive and educational purposes, are closed to alcohol consumption in accordance with (a)(3)(i) except as authorized under special circumstances by the Superintendent:
Park Headquarters-Bayfield
Little Sand Bay Visitor Center
Stockton Island Visitor Center
Manitou Fish Camp Buildings and grounds
The Historic Lighthouses and related light station buildings at:
Devils Island
Long Island
Michigan Island
Outer Island
Raspberry Island
Sand Island
Ashland Harbor Breakwater Light
Determining factors: These restrictions are necessary to protect visitors, cultural and historic resources, avoid visitor use conflicts and ensure safe and orderly access and operation of major visitor use facilities.
36 CFR §2.51 – DEMONSTRATIONS:
Demonstrations (including picketing, speechmaking, marching, holding vigils or religious services, and all other like forms of conduct that involve the communication or expression of views or grievances, engaged in by one or more persons, the conduct of which is reasonably likely to attract a crowd of onlookers) involving 25 persons or fewer may be held without a permit in accordance with the terms and conditions listed in 36 CFR §2.51 at the park areas designated below.
Demonstrations involving larger groups are allowed within park areas designated below in accordance with the terms and conditions listed in 36 CFR §2.51 when the superintendent has issued a permit for the activity. The permit must be in the possession of the highest-level organizer or leader of the demonstration that is on site within the Lakeshore.
Maps of park areas designated for such activity are on file in the office of the superintendent and at the end of this document.
Meyers Beach Parking Area – mowed area south of the trail head and parking lot (Appendix A).
Determining Factors: A permit is necessary to manage large public assemblies in the park that may damage park resources or conflict with the overall safety and enjoyment of the park by other park visitors, while allowing for First Amendment rights. Conflicts between groups may be controlled by the issuance of a permit that identifies the criteria under which an assembly, public meeting, or public expression of views may occur.
36 CFR §2.62 – MEMORIALIZATION:
(b) A permit is required for the scattering of ashes from cremated human remains, or in the following designated areas without a permit, in accordance with the following terms and conditions:
A special use permit is required for the scattering of human ashes. Remains may be scattered on all lands and waters of the park with the following exceptions:
On the grounds or within 100 yards of any historic building, structure, or archeological site.
No whole teeth or identifiable human bones shall be included in the ashes.
36 CFR §4.10 – TRAVEL ON PARK ROADS AND ROUTES:
(a) Park roads, open for travel by motor vehicle are those indicated below, and/or as indicated in the noted publication or document:
Little Sand Bay Road
Meyers Beach Road
Official Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Brochure
(b) Routes and areas for off-road vehicle use are provided for in section 7.82.
(c) Vehicles and trailers with a combined overall length greater than 45 feet are prohibited on the Meyers Beach road and parking lot.
Determining Factors: Parking spots for vehicles with trailers are 45 feet in length, vehicles and trailers longer than 45 feet obstruct traffic and create hazards and unsafe conditions. The parking lot has a tight turning radius so longer vehicles struggle to make the turns in a safe and controlled fashion.
36 CFR §4.21 – SPEED LIMITS:
(b) The following speed limits are established for the routes/roads indicated:
Meyers Beach Road 15 MPH
Little Sand Bay Road 15 MPH
36 CFR §4.30 – BICYCLES:
The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.).
E-bikes are allowed in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore where traditional bicycles are allowed.
E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited.
Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited.
A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h) (2)-(5).
Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.
