Jewels of Lake Superior

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, located at the northern tip of Wisconsin's Bayfield Peninsula, features 21 stunning islands, a scenic 12-mile shoreline along Lake Superior, and is located within the ancestral homeland of the Ojibwe people. Established in 1970, the park showcases picturesque sea caves, sandy beaches, and the largest collection of lighthouses in the National Park system.

Photograph inside a sandstone cave covered in ice with sunlight streaming in through an opening.
Ice Caves Status: Closed

The ice caves are currently inaccessible due to non-existent or unstable ice conditions.

Storm clouds are visible in the distance as waves crash against a rocky shoreline near a small shed.
Current Conditions

The park is open year-round; however, changing conditions can dictate what areas are accessible. Check the conditions before setting out.

Photograph of a small boat on a sandy beach with people standing on the shoreline.
Getting to the Islands

With or without a boat, everyone can still visit the islands.

A hiker scrapes their boot on a brush to clean off dirt and debris.
Fees and Reservations

While there is no entrance fee, there are some parking, docking, camping costs to be aware of.

Photograph of a building from above with green grass grass, trees and a large lake on the horizon.
Places To Go

Learn about all the places to visit on the mainland and on the islands.

A large catamaran tour boat travels around an overhanging sandstone cliff at sunset.
Apostle Island Cruises

Apostle Islands Cruises offers a variety of nonstop sightseeing excursions and island shuttles featuring stops at several islands.

Photograph of black bear swimming in a blue lake.
Bear Safety

Learn how to be Bear Aware in the Apostle Islands.

Photograph of a person standing inside a boat cabin looking out at the water during sunset.
Commercial Services

Find boat, sailing, & fishing charters, guided kayak trips & rentals, and water taxis.

A tent is set up in a small clearing among tall trees.
Camping

We have the beautiful, secluded campsite you're looking for.

Kayaker looking up at a rock formation from the water.
Kayaking in the Apostles

Everything you need to know as you plan your kayak trip to the Apostle Islands.

Sailboat with sails down resting on calm water with the sky and clouds reflecting off the surface.
Boating

Get out and explore the islands in a sail boat or motor boat.

A blanket on the ground, covered with cloth bundles, food, and colorful folded blankets.
Ojibwe Culture

Ojibwe culture is saturated with a relationship to this place, these islands, & all of the natural world around us.

Young child signing a certificate with a park ranger.
Kids & Youth

Want to learn about the park? Need something fun to do at home? We've got activities for you!

Orange text in a circle reading: Apostle Islands NL, 2021, Virtual Visit.
Visit the Park Virtually

Sit back and take a virtual trip through the Apostle Islands, all from the comfort of your own home.

Last updated: December 4, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

415 Washington Avenue
Bayfield, WI 54814

Phone:

715 779-3397

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