Pros & cons
PROS
- Secluded lakefront tent sites with sunset reflections
- Strategic hike-in stop linking Greenstone and Minong ridges
CONS
- Steep, strenuous descent and climb to and from the ridge
- Strictly primitive: no potable water, no fires, no tables or shelters
Overview
If you’re chasing solitude on Isle Royale’s interior, Hatchet Lake Campground delivers. It’s a quiet, hike-in backcountry spot tucked along the south shore of Hatchet Lake, used by backpackers crossing between the Greenstone and Minong ridges. Expect a peaceful inland setting, moody evening light, and a true backcountry feel.
Getting There
Access is by trail only. The final approach drops steeply off the ridge to the lakeshore—and you’ll pay it back on the climb out. It’s a tough end-of-day descent for tired legs, so plan your timing and energy accordingly.
Campsites & Facilities
You’ll find a handful of tent-only sites spaced in the woods for privacy, plus designated group sites. Facilities are minimal: an outhouse (pit toilet), lake access for water (treat or boil it), and that’s about it. There are no shelters, picnic tables, or fire rings, and open campfires aren’t allowed—bring a stove. Sites are first-come, first-served, and in peak summer they can fill; a two-night maximum stay typically applies from early June through Labor Day.
Scenery & Wildlife
This is an inland-lake experience: glassy water, birch and spruce backdrops, and sunset colors reflecting across the basin. Dusk is prime time for activity—expect loons calling and the chance to spot beavers cruising the shoreline. Foxes are known to wander through camp, so keep food secured. With no light pollution, clear nights can be excellent for stargazing.
What It’s Like to Camp Here
The vibe is tranquil and social only when it’s busy; otherwise, you may not even see neighbors thanks to well-spaced sites. Mornings are calm and photogenic. Evenings can be buggy—mosquitoes ramp up around dusk in summer—so plan your lakeside sunset time with repellent handy.
Best Time to Visit
- Time of day: Sunrise and sunset offer the best reflections and light on the lake.
- Season and crowds: August can be busier, and you may end up sharing space at group sites. Arrive earlier in the day to secure a spot.
- Weather: Interior weather can shift quickly—pack rain layers even on bluebird days.
Who It’s For
Backpackers who don’t mind a steep spur and minimal amenities are rewarded with a quiet, pretty camp deep in the island’s interior. If you want docks, shelters, or easy access, pick a different campground.
Where it is
48.0213, -88.8470Tips for Hatchet Lake Campground
- 01Arrive early to claim a site; it’s first-come, first-served.
- 02Bring a reliable water filter—every drop comes from Hatchet Lake.
- 03Pack a stove; open campfires aren’t permitted here.
- 04Expect mosquitoes around dusk—repellent or a head net helps a lot.
- 05Budget time and energy for the steep spur between ridge and lake.
Amenities
Near Hatchet Lake Campground
All places →All trails →
2.5 mi awayTodd Harbor CampgroundQuiet north-shore cove with sunsets, dock, and a lone shelterRestroom · Campground
2.7 mi awaySiskiwit LakeThe island’s largest, clear, island-dotted lake for quiet paddling
3.1 mi awayMalone Bay CampgroundRemote lakeshore shelters with dock access and big water viewsTrailhead · Restroom
3.1 mi awayMalone Bay TrailRemote ridge to Lake Superior descent with big views and bigger effortChallenging · 13.1 mi · 9 hr
3.3 mi awayMalone BayRemote south-shore basecamp with shelters and an overnight dockTrailhead · Restroom
7.9 mi awayIndian Portage TrailHistoric island traverse linking McCargoe Cove to Chippewa HarborModerate · 11.2 mi · 8 hr
7.9 mi awayMinong Mine TrailShort spur to Isle Royale’s best mine ruins near McCargoe CoveEasy · 0.5 mi · 30 min
7.9 mi awayEast Chickenbone TrailQuiet, forested shortcut from McCargoe Cove toward Greenstone RidgeModerate · 3.6 mi · 2 hr
