Places To Go

Stockton Island at sunset

NPS Photo/ M. Carlson

 

There are 21 islands in the National Lakeshore archipelago, sea caves, lighthouses, 12 miles of mainland accessible by car, and wilderness to discover. The places to go to for recreation, solitude, reflection, and beauty are spread out over 720 square miles in the Apostle Islands of Lake Superior. Whether you are paddling a sea kayak, sailing through the islands, hiking a trail, or visiting a historical structure, there are many ways to experience the park. The islands are accessible by water only. Due to the distance between islands, it can be hard to see the entire park in one visit. Some specific places are of particular interest to visitors, however.

There are three visitor centers located throughout the Apostle Islands staffed by park rangers with interpretive displays, restrooms, and park information. Park headquarters is located on the mainland in Bayfield and another is at Little Sand Bay in the Town of Russell. The third is open seasonally on Stockton Island. Hours of operation vary at each location and can be found on the website.