Apostle Islands Camping and Campsites

Last year I had the privilege of spending a week near the beautiful Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Let's break down the best places to camp, and what to do while you are there! This region is densely packed with fantastic campgrounds, incredible Midwest vistas, great history, and so much more! 

Apostle Islands Overview

The Apostle's Islands is an island group in Lake Superior, around the Bayfield Penisula of northern Wisconsin. The National Lakeshore includes most of these islands and the shoreline at the northern point of the peninsula. The primary exception is Madeline Island, the largest island, which is the only commercially developed island. The peninsula's interior is largely National Forest land, and most of the area's towns are on the coast. Most human activity in the Apostle Islands area centers around Bayfield, Wisconsin's smallest official city.

I have included a simplified map below to better explain the important locations I will be mentioning.

Camping In and Near the Apostle Islands

Here are a few places to look for great camping and campgrounds. This list is not exhaustive - creating a 100% complete list would be nearly impossible due to the abundance of options. 

Camping in the National Forest

My preferred way to camp! The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is part of America's BLM lands. This means that dispersed camping is allowed for up to 14 days. There are usually also rules about how far off the road you must be, and how far away from campgrounds and recreation sites you should be. You can find quite a few dispersed sites in this area using the iOverlander app. If you aren't confident a spot is legal, it's best to check with the local rangers. 

Camping in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore 

The National Parks Service manages several official campgrounds on the Apostle Islands NL islands and the mainland. Keep in mind that all of the NPS campsites are considered hike-in, boat-in, or backcountry. Thus, these sites are not accessible to trailers, RVs, or car camping. Additionally, the Apostle Islands have a healthy bear population, so campers at these locations will want to brush up on bear safety. 

Camping In and Near Bayfield

The area around Bayfield and its southern neighbor, Washburn, is a great "home base" for exploring the Apostle Islands. Bayfield has great access to activities like boat tours, kayak rentals, and shopping. This side of the Peninsula also has an abundance of municipal and private campgrounds. 

For camping with a vehicle or trailer, I recommend the city-operated Dalrymple Campground on the north end of Bayfield. It is located next to the water. Some sites have a great view of Lake Superior. Bathrooms are available, but not showers. These sites are first come, first serve, at $30 a night, cash only. I was able to stay one night here, and scored a sweet spot with a view of the bay. 

For families looking for more on-site amenities or cabins, but still want proximity to Bayfield should consider Apostle Islands Area Campground. It's only 1/2 mile from Lake Superior and offers a pool, full hook-up, and showers. 

Visitors who want to visit the Legendary Waters casino at Red Cliff, not far north of Bayfield, should look into Buffalo Bay Campground. Even though you aren't as close to Bayfield, camping at Red Cliff offers great access to other Apostle Islands attractions. Plus, the Casino's marina is a huge boon for campers with their own boats or kayaks. 

Camping Near Sand Bay 

Once you leave the eastern side of the Bayfield peninsula, camping options are a little harder to come by. However, there are still great camping options! These options are located near Sand Bay, which is a popular launching point for Kayakers and hikers looking to explore the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore during the day. 

The same casino that manages Buffalo Bay Campground also manages the tent-only campground Point Detour. No reservations are required, and campsites have a great view of Lake Superior. Just stop into the Casino at Red Cliff to pay the $25 fee before heading west. Keep in mind that this is advertised as "wilderness camping" so expect minimal facilities. 

Alternatively, the town of Russell manages a city-owned campground Little Sand Bay Recreation Area. This location welcomes tents, RVs and other types of overlanding vehicles. Sites cost between $40 and $50 per night, and there are annual pass options for frequent guests. Amenities include a boat launch, overnight mooring, ice and firewood sales, a swim beach, hot showers, electricity, and RV dump station. Consequently, this campground offers a great balance between wilderness and convenience for campers who don't need proximity to town. 

Camping on Madeline Island

If you want to experience the island part of Apostle Islands, but don't feel comfortable with backcountry camping, no worries! Madeline Island offers two campgrounds, which are perfect home bases for enjoying the town of La Pointe. The most popular camp spot is Big Bay State Park. Ferry fees start at $15 per vehicle, plus passenger fare. 

Apostle Islands Camping: Final Thoughts

This area is one of the most beautiful places in the Midwest, with lots to do outside of camping and without even setting foot on the National Lakeshore. I plan on following this up with a detailed guide on things to do in each section of the Bayfield Peninsula. 

Have you stayed at any of these campsites? Which was your favorite? Comment below if you have, or if you have any questions!