Stockton Island Watercraft Campsite #20

🏕️ Introduction / Overview: Stockton Island Campsite #20 – Sand, Shoreline, and Solitude

For Wisconsin campers dreaming of a true island wilderness escape on the shores of Lake Superior, Stockton Island Watercraft Campsite #20 offers one of the most picturesque and sought-after spots in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Stockton Island is widely regarded as the most popular of the Apostle Islands for camping, and Campsite #20, specifically located on Presque Isle Bay, provides a unique beachside experience.

This is not your average drive-up campsite; it is a primitive, boat-in destination accessible only by watercraft (sea kayak, private boat, or water taxi). It rewards the adventurous with stunning scenery and the feeling of being miles away from civilization. The experience is best summed up by a customer's enthusiastic review: "On the beach, in a bay...need I say more?" For local users prepared for the demands of island camping—including securing a mandatory permit, managing food in bear-proof lockers, and dealing with the infamous Lake Superior mosquitoes—Campsite #20 is a prime location for enjoying the natural splendor of Northern Wisconsin.

📍 Location and Accessibility on the Apostle Islands

Stockton Island Watercraft Campsite #20 is situated on Stockton Island, WI (54850), the largest island within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and a major hub for the National Park Service (NPS). The campsite belongs to the popular Presque Isle Bay cluster of individual sites (Sites 2–19 are individual sites and Site 1 is accessible).

Access is strictly by watercraft. Campers must arrange transportation from the mainland (Bayfield) via personal vessel or use the Camper Shuttle operated by Apostle Islands Cruises.

• Water Landing: Campsite #20 is described as being "on the beach," meaning campers can land their kayaks or small boats directly near the site, though the official dock for Presque Isle Bay is a short distance away.
• Terrain Note: The site is on sand, making walking and tent setup unique but providing a truly memorable "beach camping" vibe, right on the Lake Superior shoreline.
• Proximity to Facilities: While the campsite is secluded, Stockton Island hosts the most extensive facilities in the Apostle Islands, including a seasonal ranger station and often potable water near the main Presque Isle dock (Site 1). However, be prepared for a "bit of a walk to the vault toilets" from Site #20, adding to its remote feel.

🛠️ Services Offered

As a National Park Service individual campsite, Site #20 provides essential amenities for primitive camping while maintaining strict environmental standards.

• Campsite Capacity: Individual campsites accommodate a maximum of seven campers (all ages count) and a maximum of three tents.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: A mandatory bear-proof locker is provided at the site. All food, garbage, and scented items must be secured 24/7 due to a high black bear density on Stockton Island.
• Site Furnishings: Each site includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate. Campers must use dead and downed wood found nearby for fires.
• Sanitation: Shared vault toilets (privies) are spaced throughout the campground loop; expect a walk from Site #20.
• Potable Water (Seasonal): Potable water is sometimes available seasonally near the main Presque Isle dock (Site 1), but campers should always bring their own or be prepared to filter/treat Lake Superior water.
• Permits Required: Camping requires a reservation ($15/night) and a permit ($10/trip reservation fee) secured through Recreation.gov.

✨ Features / Highlights

Stockton Island is known for its incredible natural features, and Campsite #20 places you right in the middle of the action.

• Exceptional View: The "Can't beat the view" from this beachside site in a protected bay is arguably its biggest selling point, offering serene Lake Superior scenery.
• Singing Sands of Julian Bay: Stockton Island is famous for the "singing sands" phenomenon at Julian Bay (a short distance from the Presque Isle Bay campsites), where the sand emits a unique sound when walked upon.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: Stockton Island boasts 14.5 miles of trails, the most diverse network in the Lakeshore, including routes through old-growth forests, bogs, and even to a historic brownstone quarry site.
• Unique Ecology: The island features unique geological and ecological formations, including a tombolo (a landform connecting two islands) and a high density of sand dunes and lagoons to explore.
• Ideal for Paddlers: Being located directly on the beach in a protected bay makes it an ideal landing spot for sea kayakers, providing slightly easier access than rocky shoreline sites.
• Ranger Presence: The presence of a seasonal ranger station provides added safety and information for visitors, though campers must still be fully self-sufficient.

📞 Contact Information

All inquiries regarding reservations, weather, and regulations for Stockton Island are handled by the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Headquarters.

Address (General Area): Stockton Island, WI 54850, USA

Park Headquarters Phone: (715) 779-3398, extension 2

Note: Reservations for this popular site must be made online via the Recreation.gov website under "Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits." Visitors are strongly urged to check marine forecasts before departure.

✅ What is Worth Choosing Stockton Island Campsite #20?

For experienced Wisconsin paddlers and boaters, choosing Campsite #20 on Stockton Island is choosing the perfect balance of wilderness and accessibility within the Apostle Islands.

It is worth choosing for the prime beachfront location ("on the beach, in a bay") that delivers truly spectacular Lake Superior views and the relaxing sound of the water right outside your tent. While primitive, the site is fully equipped with essential facilities like a picnic table, fire ring, and the mandatory bear-proof food locker, ensuring a safe and comfortable base.

However, local users must be prepared for the realities of the Great Lakes wilderness: the customer review warns that "Lots of mosquito repellent needed!" and the walk to the vault toilet requires preparation. But for those ready to embrace the challenges—the boat-in access, the sand, and the insects—the reward is unparalleled: access to the famous Singing Sands of Julian Bay and miles of pristine hiking trails on one of the most ecologically diverse and beautiful islands in the National Lakeshore. This site is highly recommended for Wisconsin adventurers seeking an uncrowded, beach-focused camping experience.