Place · 0.8 mi away
Overview
A quiet, backcountry stop on the north/northeast shore of Lake Richie, this tent-only campground delivers the solitude Isle Royale’s interior is known for. It’s off the busier corridors and draws backpackers and paddlers who want calm water, wildlife, and big-sky sunrises and sunsets.
Getting There
Reach it by foot via a short descent off the Greenstone Ridge (about 0.5 mile through forest and wetlands) or paddle in via a chain of portages linking interior lakes like Intermediate, Moskey, Chippewa Harbor, and Lake LeSage. There’s no private motorboat access; it’s hike-or-portage territory only.
Campsites & Facilities
You’ll find multiple tent sites clustered on either side of the landing, with additional group sites farther right across a wetland. Regular sites sit roughly 25–75 feet from the lake, keeping water close while preserving a quiet buffer. Facilities are minimal: pit toilets, no potable water, no picnic tables, no showers, no hookups, and no campfires. It’s first-come, first-served with a two-night limit from June 1 to Labor Day.
What Stands Out
This is a paddler-forward hub on the island’s inland canoe/kayak route—peaceful water access without the buzz of motors. The granite shoreline makes for comfortable perches to fill bottles (after filtering) and take in soft dawn light in fall and glowing spring sunsets.
Wildlife & Scenery
Lake Richie’s stillness carries loon calls across the water, and moose occasionally browse nearby; waterfowl and beavers are also at home here. Expect pristine views over a classic glacial lake—beautiful, but natural—leeches are present, so mind your footing at the shoreline.
Essentials to Know
Plan to treat all water pulled from the lake and check with rangers for any current advisories on interior lakes. Bring a camp stove (fires are prohibited) and robust bug protection—wetlands mean mosquitoes, especially mid-summer. Trails and approaches can be muddy; waterproof boots pay off.
Best Time to Visit
Shoulder seasons see fewer bugs and less competition for sites. For photography, aim for early and late light—sunrises can shine in fall, sunsets glow in spring. In peak season, arrive by early afternoon to secure a tent pad.
Pros
- Serene interior-lake setting with canoe and kayak access
- Good chances to hear or see loons and moose
- Well-separated tent sites near the water
Cons
- No potable water or campfires; bring a stove and filter
- Mosquitoes and soggy ground can be an issue in summer
Tips
- Arrive early in peak season—sites are first-come, first-served.
- Bring a stove; campfires are not allowed.
- Filter or treat all lake water and check with rangers for current advisories.
- Pack serious bug protection; wetlands mean heavy mosquitoes in summer.
- Expect wet, muddy approaches—waterproof boots are worth the weight.
