Primitive Camping Zones

Camping is available outside of individual or group campsites on all islands except Devils, Eagle, Gull, Long, and York. Primitive camping zones have been established on the rest of the islands for visitors seeking a remote backcountry experience with no facilities. Camping zone maps are available at the headquarters visitor center and in the table below.

Only one camping party will be allowed per night in most camping zones. More than one camping party per night may be allowed on Oak, Outer, and Stockton islands. Parties camping in primitive camping zones are limited to a maximum of five campers. They should use backpacking stoves for cooking and practice "Leave No Trace" camping techniques.

A fee of $15/party/night will be charged. An additional reservation fee of $10 is charged for each camping trip. To reserve a primitive camping zone go to https://www.recreation.gov/ or call 715-779-3397 extension 2 for more information.

The following areas are CLOSED to camping:

• Areas excluded from primitive camping zones and closed to camping to protect sensitive natural and cultural resources.
• Areas posted as closed to protect bird nesting areas and threatened or endangered species.
• In view of any designated trail.
• Within 1/4 mile of any building, historic structure, individual or group campsite.
• Within 100 feet of a flowing stream.
• Private land or leaseholdings.
• All of Eagle and Gull Islands.

 

Click the links below for primitive camping zone maps. (PDFs)
The descriptions of shoreline types is a rough and imprecise guide. Extreme caution should always be exercised in shallow water or while approaching land.

Water levels vary each year and can cause the beaches to be very small or no longer exist.

Basswood	Ironwood	Oak	Rocky
Bear	Manitou	Otter	Sand
Cat	Michigan	Outer	South Twin
Hermit	North Twin	Raspberry	Stockton