Lane Cove Campground 0
Lane Cove Campground 1
Lane Cove Campground 2
Lane Cove Campground 3
Lane Cove Campground 4
Lane Cove Campground 5
Lane Cove Campground 6
Lane Cove Campground 7
Lane Cove Campground 8
Lane Cove Campground 9

Lane Cove Campground Introduce

Are you a Michigan resident yearning for an escape into the untouched beauty of nature? Look no further than Lane Cove Campground, a truly remarkable wilderness destination nestled in Houghton Township, MI. This campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from the everyday hustle and immerse yourself in a serene, rugged landscape. From the moment you begin your journey to Lane Cove, you’ll understand why it's a cherished spot for those seeking genuine tranquility and an authentic outdoor experience.

Lane Cove Campground is not your typical drive-up camping spot. It’s designed for the adventurous spirit, providing a unique blend of solitude and natural grandeur. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the wilderness, perhaps even the distant echo of wolf calls, a testament to the truly remote and wild character of this location. It’s a place where the stars shine brighter, and the air feels crisper, offering a profound sense of peace that's often hard to find in our busy lives.

The allure of Lane Cove lies in its ability to transport you to a different world, one where nature dictates the pace. It’s a place where you can truly unplug, recharge, and reconnect with yourself and the natural environment. Whether you’re an experienced backpacker or someone looking to challenge themselves with a rewarding wilderness experience, Lane Cove Campground stands ready to welcome you to its untouched embrace.

Location and Accessibility

Lane Cove Campground is uniquely situated in Houghton Township, Michigan, specifically on Isle Royale. This positioning immediately signals its remote and secluded nature. It's not a campground you can simply drive to; accessibility is primarily gained via a rugged hike in and out, typically off the renowned Greenstone Ridge Trail. This makes the journey to Lane Cove an adventure in itself, requiring preparation and a willingness to embrace the wilderness.

Isle Royale, as a whole, is accessible by ferry or seaplane. Once on the island, the real trek begins. The hike to Lane Cove is described by visitors as "very rugged," emphasizing the need for appropriate gear, physical preparedness, and navigational skills. This challenging approach, however, is precisely what preserves the campground's pristine condition and contributes to its profound sense of remoteness and peace. It acts as a natural filter, ensuring that those who make the journey are truly dedicated to the wilderness experience.

For Michigan residents, the appeal of Lane Cove’s location is its close proximity to a truly wild, untouched natural landscape within their own state. It offers an opportunity for a wilderness adventure without having to travel across the country. While it requires effort to reach, the reward is an unparalleled sense of solitude and immersion in nature, far from the crowds and conveniences of more accessible destinations. The journey itself becomes an integral part of the overall experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the remote beauty that awaits at Lane Cove.

Services Offered

  • Designated Campsites: Lane Cove Campground offers a limited number of campsites, ensuring a low-impact and intimate camping experience. This scarcity contributes to the peaceful and secluded atmosphere.
  • Basic Wilderness Facilities: As a remote wilderness campground, visitors should expect basic facilities consistent with a backcountry setting. This typically includes designated tent pads and a privy.
  • Water Access: While the campground is near the water, purification methods for drinking water are essential, as potable water is not directly supplied.
  • Bear Poles/Food Storage: Given the wilderness setting, provisions for secure food storage, such as bear poles or lockers, are typically available to protect food from wildlife.

Features / Highlights

  • Remote and Peaceful Setting: The most significant highlight of Lane Cove Campground is its profound sense of remoteness and tranquility. It's an ideal escape for those seeking quiet contemplation and a deep connection with nature, far from the noise and distractions of everyday life.
  • Echoes of Wolf Calls: A unique and thrilling feature, the possibility of hearing distant wolf calls adds to the wild and authentic atmosphere of the campground, creating an unforgettable auditory experience.
  • Rugged Hike-In Access: While a challenge, the "very rugged hike in and out" off the Greenstone Ridge is a major highlight for experienced backpackers. It ensures that only dedicated outdoor enthusiasts reach the site, preserving its pristine condition and enhancing the sense of accomplishment.
  • Stunning Sunset Views: As noted by visitors, specific campsites, particularly site 2, offer "pretty good sunset" views over the water, providing breathtaking natural beauty at the end of the day. The opportunity to sit on a log by the water and watch the sunset is a truly memorable experience.
  • Protected Campsites: Campsite 1 is specifically highlighted for being "well protected" from cold winds, offering a comfortable and secure spot even in less favorable weather conditions. This attention to natural protection enhances the overall camping experience.
  • High-Caliber Campsites (Sites 1 & 2): Reviewers emphasize that sites 1 and 2 are of a "higher caliber" than the others, suggesting they offer superior views, protection, or overall appeal, making them highly sought-after.
  • Authentic Wilderness Experience: The lack of adjacent day hiking trails contributes to the campground's remote feel, encouraging campers to fully immerse themselves in the immediate surroundings and enjoy a genuine wilderness immersion.

Contact Information

Address: Houghton Township, MI, USA

Please note that as a remote wilderness campground on Isle Royale, direct phone contact information for Lane Cove Campground itself is not typically provided. For inquiries regarding reservations, ferry schedules, or general information about Isle Royale National Park and its campgrounds, it is best to refer to the official National Park Service website for Isle Royale or contact the park headquarters directly.

Isle Royale National Park Headquarters:

Phone: (906) 482-0984 (This is the general park information number and not specific to Lane Cove Campground bookings)

It is strongly recommended to plan your trip well in advance, check the National Park Service website for current conditions, regulations, and reservation procedures, especially given the limited number of campsites at Lane Cove and the required ferry or seaplane travel to Isle Royale.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For Michigan residents, Lane Cove Campground represents an unparalleled opportunity to experience truly wild and untamed nature right in their own backyard. While the journey to Lane Cove is a commitment, requiring a rugged hike and careful planning, the rewards are immense. This isn't just another campground; it's a profound escape into a landscape where peace and natural beauty reign supreme. The echoes of wolf calls, the stunning sunsets over the water from a secluded campsite, and the sheer tranquility of the surroundings create an experience that transcends typical camping.

Locals seeking to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with themselves and the natural environment will find Lane Cove perfectly suited to their desires. It offers a challenging yet incredibly rewarding adventure, fostering a deeper appreciation for Michigan's diverse and breathtaking wilderness. The limited number of campsites ensures a low-impact, intimate setting, allowing for genuine solitude that is increasingly rare to find. For those who cherish the quietude of nature and are prepared for a true wilderness immersion, Lane Cove Campground stands as a testament to Michigan's wild heart, inviting you to discover its serene beauty and create lasting memories.

Location

MichiganKeweenaw County

Customer Reviews

5.0
8 reviews
J
Joe Engel
Sep 06, 2023

Remote, peaceful, and echoes of wolf calls. Very rugged hike in and out, off Greenstone Ridge, but worth it. Downside - limited number of campsites, and no adjacent day hiking trails.

K
Keith Paré
Sep 16, 2021

This is probably one of the better campgrounds on the island. If you're here, try and get site 2. If there is too much cold wind, campsite one is well protected and is quite good. The other three camps are suitable but definitely not up to the caliber as sites one and two. You can get a pretty good sunset, just sit on the log at site 2 near the water

T
Tracen
Jun 08, 2024

Great place, beautiful sunsets. Campsites are right by the lake!

M
Mark Browne
Nov 07, 2019

Absolutely beautiful campground. Tucked away, plenty of wildlife, BEAUTIFUL sunsets. 10/10

R
Ryan VanderMeer
Oct 29, 2017

The hike in and out of Lane Cove from Mt. Franklin is challenging but filled with beauty. It's steep for a section and seems longer than advertised. The water crossings were flooded when we visited (after a lot of rain) but they held and we were able to navigate the boardwalks with minimal wet feet. The cove is magic at sunset. We found several shed moose antlers.