Site 2

For Wisconsin's most adventurous spirits who crave a profound connection with the raw beauty of Lake Superior, "Site 2" at Rocky Island Campsites offers a truly unforgettable wilderness camping experience. Situated within the magnificent Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, this particular campsite isn't about traditional amenities or drive-up convenience. Instead, it promises solitude, breathtaking natural surroundings, and the unique thrill of a boat-in adventure, making it a highly sought-after destination for those who are prepared for a genuine Northwoods challenge.

Rocky Island, one of the more remote and rugged islands in the Apostle Islands archipelago, provides an authentic backcountry camping environment. Site 2, specifically, is designed for tent campers arriving by private boat or sea kayak, ensuring a more secluded and pristine experience. Imagine waking up to the sounds of Lake Superior, stepping out of your tent into a forest setting, and knowing you’re truly off the grid. The National Park Service meticulously manages these sites, upholding strict "Leave No Trace" principles to preserve the island's delicate ecosystem. This focus on preservation means visitors contribute to keeping this incredible wilderness available for future generations of Wisconsin outdoor enthusiasts.

Site 2 is located on Rocky Island, which is part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, with the general address being Bayfield, WI 54814, USA. More specifically, Site 2 at Rocky Island Campsites is found "within 0.25 mile of NPS dock" on Rocky Island.

Access to Rocky Island, and subsequently to Site 2, is exclusively by water. This means campers must arrive via private boat, sea kayak, or potentially a water taxi service from the mainland in Bayfield. The island is quite a distance from the mainland, making it a destination primarily for experienced paddlers or power boaters comfortable navigating the sometimes unpredictable waters of Lake Superior. While there is an NPS dock on Rocky Island, the description for Site 2 notes that "There is not an adequate place to beach small vessels at this location," suggesting that access is primarily a short walk from the main dock. Kayakers attempting to land at other sites on Rocky Island are advised to use caution due to somewhat rocky beaches. The journey to Rocky Island itself is a significant part of the adventure, offering stunning views of other islands and the vast expanse of Lake Superior. Bayfield, the gateway community, provides essential services, outfitters for rentals, and ferry services to other islands, serving as a launching point for your island adventure.

• Individual tent campsite designed for a secluded experience.
• Each campsite comes equipped with a tent pad (maximum size not specified, but typically accommodates standard tents).
• A picnic table is provided at the site for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• A designated fire ring is available for campfires, adhering to park regulations.
• A bear-resistant food locker is included at the site, essential for safely storing food and scented items in bear country.
• A "stump privy" (a basic outdoor toilet) is provided for sanitation needs.
• Access to the NPS dock on Rocky Island (though direct vessel beaching at Site 2's location is not recommended).

• Secluded Island Wilderness: Offers a profound sense of isolation and immersion in nature, ideal for those seeking to disconnect from the modern world.
• Boat-In / Kayak-In Access: The necessity of watercraft access contributes to the remote feel and unique adventure of reaching the campsite.
• Pristine Lake Superior Environment: Campers are surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Superior, with opportunities to experience its vastness and tranquility.
• Basic but Essential Amenities: Provides a tent pad, picnic table, fire ring, food locker, and stump privy, offering fundamental comforts without detracting from the primitive camping experience.
• Bear Country Preparedness: The provision of bear-resistant food lockers highlights the park's commitment to visitor safety and wildlife protection.
• Hiking Opportunities: While specific trails directly from Site 2 aren't detailed, Rocky Island, like other Apostle Islands, offers natural landscapes suitable for exploration and hiking.
• Adherence to "Leave No Trace" Principles: As part of a National Lakeshore, campers are expected to follow strict environmental guidelines, promoting responsible outdoor recreation.
• Ideal for Self-Sufficient Adventurers: Best suited for campers who are prepared for basic amenities and capable of managing their waste and supplies in a wilderness setting.

As a designated campsite within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, a unit of the U.S. National Park Service, Site 2 at Rocky Island Campsites does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers." Instead, camping is managed through a fee and reservation system.

Reservations are required for all individual campsites, including Site 2, and must be made in advance through Recreation.gov. There is a per-night fee for the campsite, in addition to a non-refundable reservation fee per trip.

Holders of an Interagency Access Pass (for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities) may be eligible for discounts on camping fees. Visitors should always consult the official Apostle Islands National Lakeshore website or Recreation.gov for the most current information regarding camping fees, reservation windows (typically 30 days in advance for individual sites), and any specific regulations. The camping season on the islands is generally from late June to Labor Day, aligning with the most stable Lake Superior conditions. Planning well in advance is highly recommended due to the popularity of these unique island campsites.

Address: Rocky Island, part of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (General address: Bayfield, WI 54814, USA)

For reservations and detailed information about camping within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, it is best to use the official National Park Service channels:

Phone for Reservations/Park Rangers: (715) 779-3398 (select option 2)

General Park Information: (715) 779-3397

Website for Reservations: Recreation.gov (search for "Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits")

For Wisconsin residents, particularly those who embrace the spirit of adventure and value profound natural immersion, Site 2 on Rocky Island offers an unparalleled camping experience right in their own backyard. This isn't a typical weekend getaway to a crowded campground; it's a true expedition into one of the state's most pristine and wild national treasures.

The boat-in access immediately filters out casual visitors, ensuring that those who make the journey are truly dedicated to a wilderness experience. This level of commitment means you'll share the island with like-minded individuals, fostering a respectful and quiet atmosphere. For Wisconsin's seasoned kayakers, canoeists, and boaters, the challenge of navigating Lake Superior to reach Rocky Island is part of the allure, culminating in the reward of a private, secluded campsite.

Site 2 provides the essential amenities for comfortable primitive camping – a solid tent pad, a place to eat and have a fire, and crucial bear-resistant storage – allowing locals to truly disconnect and appreciate the raw beauty of the Apostle Islands. It’s an ideal setting for honing backcountry skills, enjoying the quiet contemplation of nature, and creating indelible memories against the backdrop of Lake Superior's ever-changing moods. For those who believe the best camping is found where the roads end and the wilderness truly begins, Site 2 on Rocky Island stands as a testament to the untamed beauty that Wisconsin proudly offers. It's a chance to experience a world-class natural wonder without ever leaving the state.