Last updated: June 1, 2021
Place
SMI Popple Campground
NPS credit
South Manitou Island has scenic campsites within quiet campgrounds. The Popple Campground is the furthest from the dock (about 3.5 miles), and is likely to have fewer people camping in its seven individual sites. Once you're settled in, take a trip to the beach on the northern tip of the island!
Campers must purchase a Backcountry Use Permit before camping. Park passes and permits are available at the Fishtown dock in Leland during the summer months. During the off-season, you can contact the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire for permits.
Once on the island, you won't have an opportunity to purchase food or supplies; the last modern restrooms are near the old boat house and ranger station. There's also a place to fill up your water bottles just outside the bathrooms. Bring water filtration equipment because there are limited sources of purified drinking water. You must carry all of your gear-so travel light, and store your food in hard containers or hung from a line to thwart chipmunks.
Other tips for spending time on South Manitou Island is to remember bug spray, a hat, and any other light medical supplies (bandaids for blisters) that might make your trip a bit more comfortable. Know what poison ivy looks like and bring Benadryl/hydrocortisone cream if you know you will immediately react.