West Chickenbone Lake Campground

For Michiganders seeking a truly immersive wilderness experience, far removed from the everyday, West Chickenbone Lake Campground on Isle Royale National Park stands out as a rewarding destination. Nestled within the expansive and remote Isle Royale archipelago in Lake Superior, this campground offers an authentic backcountry adventure. It's a place where the sounds of civilization fade, replaced by the rustle of leaves, the call of loons, and the distant howl of wolves, providing a profound connection with Michigan's pristine natural world.

Isle Royale National Park is celebrated for its unique ecosystem, home to its famous moose and wolf populations, and its rugged, roadless terrain. West Chickenbone Lake Campground, situated on the western end of its namesake lake, offers a glimpse into this wild heart. Visitors often report incredible wildlife sightings, a testament to its secluded nature. Unlike more developed campgrounds, West Chickenbone is a commitment to a genuine outdoor experience, appealing to those who embrace challenging hikes and the serene beauty of an inland lake. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker tackling the Greenstone Ridge Trail or a paddler navigating the island's interior waterways, this campground promises unforgettable moments and a deep sense of accomplishment. It truly is a hidden gem for those in Michigan looking to test their limits and embrace the wild.

West Chickenbone Lake Campground is located on the west end of Chickenbone Lake, within Houghton Township, Michigan, USA. Its exact position is off the Indian Portage Trail, a key route for backpackers traversing Isle Royale National Park. While its address is broadly "Houghton Township, MI," it is essential to understand that this campground is deep within the island's interior wilderness.

Accessibility to West Chickenbone Lake Campground is strictly by foot, canoe, or kayak:

• Hike-In: For backpackers, West Chickenbone Lake Campground is directly accessible via a spur trail from the Greenstone Ridge Trail, a renowned long-distance hiking path on Isle Royale. As one review notes, it's a "quick but steep 5 minute walk from the turnoff on the Greenstone Ridge Trail." It's also accessible via the Indian Portage Trail, with connections from other areas. This makes it a popular stop for those undertaking multi-day treks across the island.

• Canoe/Kayak Access: While there is no direct "boater access" in terms of motorboats, canoes and kayaks can reach West Chickenbone Lake via portages. Key portage routes include a 1.2-mile portage from McCargoe Cove (on Lake Superior) or a 0.2-mile portage from Lake Livermore. This makes it a viable destination for paddlers keen to explore Isle Royale's inland lakes.

To reach Isle Royale National Park itself, visitors must travel by ferry (such as the Ranger III from Houghton, MI, or other concessionaire ferries from Michigan or Minnesota) or seaplane. Backpackers will then embark from their ferry drop-off point (e.g., Rock Harbor or Windigo) to hike the necessary trails to West Chickenbone Lake. Paddlers will need to transport their canoes/kayaks on the ferry and then launch to begin their portage journey. The journey to West Chickenbone is a commitment, offering a rewarding sense of remoteness and genuine wilderness for those who make the effort. The campground's natural setting on the lake, with views of the Greenstone Ridge, makes the strenuous journey well worth it.

West Chickenbone Lake Campground is a primitive, backcountry campground within Isle Royale National Park, meaning services are minimal and campers must be self-sufficient, adhering strictly to "Leave No Trace" principles. The focus is on providing basic facilities for waste management and designated camping spots.

• Individual Tent Sites: The campground offers dedicated individual tent sites, providing cleared spaces for pitching tents. Reviewers mention that these sites are "nice with lots of space to set up away from your neighbors."

• Group Sites: There are also group sites available, designed to accommodate larger parties. However, reviews indicate these might be less appealing or "a little overgrown," and may require sharing during busy periods ("sharing a group site with 3 other tents" in August).

• Toilets/Outhouses: Basic, primitive toilet facilities (outhouses or privies) are provided to ensure proper human waste disposal in the wilderness.

• Non-Potable Water Access: Campers have "easy water access" to West Chickenbone Lake for filtering or treating water. There is no potable (drinkable) water directly available. Visitors must carry their own water filters or purification tablets.

• Lake Access: Direct access to West Chickenbone Lake from the campsites is a highlight, described as "easy water access" (though potentially "steep from the group sites").

It is crucial for visitors to note what is generally NOT provided at West Chickenbone Lake Campground, reflecting its remote wilderness status:

• No Campfires: Explicitly stated, "No campfire allowed." Campers must use self-contained stoves for cooking.

• No Shelters: Unlike some other Isle Royale campgrounds, West Chickenbone does not have shelters.

• No Picnic Tables: Sites are primitive and do not include picnic tables.

• No Cell Phone Reception or Internet Connectivity: Expect to be completely off-grid.

• No Trash/Recycling Collection: All waste must be packed out by campers.

• No Camp Store, Ice, or Firewood Sales: All necessary supplies must be brought onto the island.

• No Staff On-Site: There are no park rangers permanently stationed at this specific campground.

• No RV Hookups or Dump Station: This is a wilderness tent campground, not equipped for vehicles.

• Exceptional Wildlife Viewing: West Chickenbone Lake Campground is renowned for its wildlife. Reviewers frequently mention seeing moose ("Saw a moose across the water from site 1") and observing "lots of wildlife around camp," including "friendly" rabbits. The area is also known for wolf activity, offering a chance to hear or even spot these elusive animals.

• Beautiful Lake Setting: Situated directly on the shores of West Chickenbone Lake, the campground offers "beautiful views of the Greenstone Ridge" and "gorgeous views." The lake itself is noted for being "easy water access" for filtering and potentially swimming.

• Secluded and Peaceful: Despite potentially being busy in peak season, visitors describe it as "secluded and peaceful," particularly noting the spacious tent sites that allow for privacy.

• Access to Greenstone Ridge Trail: Its location "a quick but steep 5 minute walk from the turnoff on the Greenstone Ridge Trail" makes it an ideal overnight stop for backpackers traversing this iconic Isle Royale hiking route, providing "an insane amount of hikes right at your fingertips."

• Inland Lake Fishing: West Chickenbone Lake offers opportunities for fishing for species like northern pike and walleye, adding another recreational dimension to the stay (though strict fishing regulations apply on Isle Royale's inland lakes, often requiring artificial lures and barbless hooks).

• Authentic Wilderness Experience: With its minimal amenities and remote access, the campground provides a true backcountry experience, appealing to those who desire to disconnect and immerse themselves fully in nature.

• Two-Night Stay Limit: From June 1st to Labor Day annually, a two-night consecutive stay limit helps ensure equitable access for all visitors, allowing more people to experience this unique location.

As West Chickenbone Lake Campground is a remote, backcountry site within Isle Royale National Park, there is no direct phone number or specific contact person for the campground itself. All inquiries, permit requirements, and general information about visiting Isle Royale National Park, including its campgrounds, should be directed to the main park administration.

Address: Houghton Township, MI, USA (This broadly indicates its location within the park. For park administrative inquiries, you would typically look for contact information for Isle Royale National Park directly.)

General Isle Royale National Park contact information for visitors typically involves:

• Isle Royale National Park Headquarters: Located in Houghton, Michigan, on the mainland (800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931) during the off-season. During the operating season, visitor centers are also available on Mott Island, Rock Harbor, and Windigo. The primary phone number for general park information is (906) 482-0984. Email: isro_parkinfo@nps.gov.

• National Park Service Website: The official website for Isle Royale National Park (nps.gov/isro) is the primary and most comprehensive resource for all planning, permit information, transportation details (ferries, seaplanes), park regulations, and current conditions. This is the essential source for trip planning.

• Permit Reservations: Small-party camping permits are required for overnight stays in Isle Royale's backcountry campgrounds, including West Chickenbone. These permits are typically obtained upon arrival at one of the park's visitor centers (Rock Harbor or Windigo) on a first-come, first-served basis for individual sites. Group camping (7 or more people) usually requires advance reservations and a fee. For group camping inquiries, email ISRO_GroupReserve@nps.gov or call (906) 482-0984.

It is critically important for all visitors to thoroughly review the official Isle Royale National Park website for detailed information on wilderness camping regulations, safety guidelines, "Leave No Trace" principles, and what to expect regarding conditions and necessary gear before embarking on a trip to West Chickenbone Lake Campground.

For Michigan locals, West Chickenbone Lake Campground on Isle Royale National Park offers a quintessential Upper Peninsula wilderness adventure. It's an ideal destination for those who are truly seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Michigan's wild heart. The challenge of reaching this inland campground, whether by a steep hike from the Greenstone Ridge or a series of portages with a canoe, ensures that only the most dedicated adventurers make it, preserving its unique tranquility and enhancing the sense of accomplishment upon arrival.

Michiganders, particularly those passionate about hiking and wildlife, will find West Chickenbone Lake immensely appealing. The reported moose and other wildlife sightings are a testament to the thriving ecosystem, offering unparalleled opportunities for nature observation that are rare in more populated areas. The "beautiful spot on the lake" and "gorgeous views of the Greenstone Ridge" provide a stunning backdrop for peaceful evenings and invigorating mornings. This campground offers a genuine escape, where the rhythm of nature dictates your day. For those in Michigan who long for quiet solitude, challenging trails, and the chance to witness the state's iconic wildlife in their natural habitat, West Chickenbone Lake Campground is an unforgettable experience, embodying the rugged, untouched spirit of the Great Lakes State. It's a true wilderness gem, waiting to be discovered by its adventurous residents.