Your Invitation to a Superior Wilderness

Explore a rugged, isolated island far from our connected communities. Isle Royale offers adventures for backpackers, hikers, boaters, paddlers, and divers. Cross Lake Superior and make a commitment: Become a part of this island, and let it become a part of you. Find peace and refuge in island wilderness – because Isle Royale, in turn, finds refuge in us. Help Isle Royale stay wild.

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Duration:
2 minutes, 1 second

Begin a lifelong journey when you cross Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world, and arrive at Isle Royale National Park.

A large, brown, metal box in the woods next to a lake.
Food Storage Regulations (2026 Update)

Learn how to properly store your food, trash, and scented items on Isle Royale.

People gather around a park ranger on a dock.
For Your Safety

As your trip gets near, use this guide to help prepare, learn what to expect, and consider how you will take responsibility for your safety.

A newspaper banner reading "The Greenstone."
Read The Greenstone

The Greenstone newspaper is your one stop shop for planning your trip to Isle Royale.

A group of nine people with large backpacks and gear stand in a circle.
Group Camping

Groups of 7 or more people need a group camping permit and advance reservations.

A large blue boat with white upper trim shines in the morning sun with Isle Royale in the background
RANGER III Reservations

The RANGER III online reservation request system has now been updated for 2026. Submit reservation requests through the pay.gov system.

An orange tent sits at a wooded campsite facing Lake Superior.
Eating & Sleeping

Find your home in the island wilderness

woman excitedly gripping annual pass
Entrance Fees and Passes

Learn the basics about Isle Royale fees and passes.

An adult with a backpack on stands next to two children along a rocky trail in a forest.
Overnight Camping & Backpacking Permits

Small-party permits are for those camping overnight in the park with 6 or fewer people (excluding boaters, see below)

Two people sit in lawn chairs on a deck and look into the distance with green foliage behind them.
Daytripper and Lodge Guest Orientation

Help Isle Royale Stay Wild by following these best practices for your day trip or lodge visit.

A group of three adults and one child poses for a photo with their backpacking packs on.
Backpacker Orientation

Help Isle Royale Stay Wild by following these best practices for your wilderness backpacking experience.

A white powerboat sailing in a lake near a rocky island.
Boater Orientation

Help Isle Royale Stay Wild by following these best practices for your boating trip.

Four people in two yellow tandem kayaks.
Paddler Orientation

Help Isle Royale Stay Wild by following these best practices for your kayaking or canoeing trip.

Two people jump off of a dock into calm waters as the sun sets in the background.
First Timer Guide

Start planning your trip.

Last updated: May 14, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

800 East Lakeshore Drive
Houghton, MI 49931

Phone:

906 482-0984

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