r/isleroyale 2d ago

Camping Washington Creek Campground Availability

Hi everyone. Me and my two boys are heading to the Windigow side for one night next weekend. We’re hoping to camp at the Washington Creek Campground but not sure if we should be concerned about availability since it’s first come first serve. Anyone have any experience camping on the island this time of year? Also, I’d love any general recommendations as far as an itinerary goes (my sons are 13 and 11). Our plans are pretty simple….one night on the island, arriving and leaving Windigow. Thanks in advance!!

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u/here4daratio 2d ago

This time of year should be fine. There is plenty of room between the shelters, the individual sites, and the group sites (which are always an option for individuals as overflow if not already used by a group). The Scouts are back in school so the groups are down.

Day hike the Hugginin loop, you’ll see the mining relics and the North Shore, not too long of a hike and good spot to rest is at Hugginin Cove campground.

Likely you’ll see moose in the creek in the evening.

Camp store will be closed so no pizza for you…

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u/wareagle4444 2d ago

Okay! Great, thanks for the recommendation. We plan to dock, head over to the campsite and set up camp, then back to the visitor center to see about renting a canoe for an hour or two, then hike the trail you mentioned…our plans are flexible so we’ll see how it all turns out.

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u/here4daratio 1d ago

Renting will be a no-go without the store, it closed September 6th, sorry. You’ll permit right away, prob under the pavilion at the base of the dock, then you can head to the campground. Enjoy!