South Lake Desor Campground

South Lake Desor is a primitive campground on the south side of Lake Desor, reached on foot from the Greenstone Ridge Trail. It’s about a 12-mile hike from Windigo, and a steep spur drops from the ridge to camp. Save it for an overnight traverse, not a quick shore visit: there’s no road or boat access. Isle Royale’s operating season runs roughly mid-April through October.

Seven individual tent sites are first come, first served; three group sites must be reserved ahead. Water isn’t potable, so bring a treatment method. Food lockers are available, but there’s no store or food service; carry what you need. Restrooms are available. The stay limit is two nights from June 1 through Labor Day.

Lake Desor is the park’s second-largest inland lake, with three islands and a relatively shallow, sandy bottom. Many sites sit above the water, so expect a steep walk down and back up to reach the shore. Loons are often heard here from late spring into late summer, and visitors regularly single out the lake at sunset.