Stockton Island Watercraft Campground, Stockton Island, WI

For those of us in Wisconsin seeking a true escape into nature, far from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Stockton Island Watercraft Campground offers an unparalleled experience. Nestled within the breathtaking Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, this unique campground provides a remarkable opportunity to connect with the pristine beauty of Lake Superior. If you're a local eager to explore the hidden gems of our state's stunning northern region, Stockton Island is a destination that should be at the top of your list. It’s more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an invitation to a different kind of adventure, one where the whispers of the wind through pine forests and the gentle lapping of waves on sandy shores become your soundtrack.

The allure of Stockton Island lies in its unspoiled wilderness, offering a genuine backcountry camping experience that is both invigorating and restorative. Unlike typical drive-up campgrounds, Stockton Island requires a bit more intentionality to reach, promising a sense of accomplishment and a deeper immersion into the natural world once you arrive. This focus on watercraft accessibility is a key element of its charm, ensuring that those who make the journey are truly seeking an authentic outdoor adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Stockton Island Watercraft Campground is located on Stockton Island, WI 54850, USA, forming a vital part of the majestic Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in northern Wisconsin. This incredible archipelago, renowned for its dramatic sandstone sea caves, historic lighthouses, and crystal-clear Lake Superior waters, is situated just off the shore of Bayfield. The very essence of Stockton Island's appeal is its accessibility by watercraft, which adds an exciting layer of adventure to your camping trip.

Visitors primarily reach Stockton Island via personal boat, sailboat, sea kayak, or by utilizing shuttle services offered by companies like Apostle Islands Cruises. These shuttles depart from the Bayfield City Dock, providing a convenient and scenic journey across Lake Superior to the island. It's important to note that there is no drive-up car, tent, or RV camping available directly on Stockton Island itself, preserving its remote and wild character. This boat-in access ensures a peaceful and relatively secluded environment, perfect for those truly looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering stunning panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding islands as you approach your destination.

For those concerned about accessibility, it's worth highlighting that Stockton Island has made strides in providing inclusive experiences. Notably, Campsite #1 at Presque Isle campground and Group Sites A & B at Quarry Bay offer accessible features. These include accessible tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof boxes. Boardwalks lead from the docks to these campsites and vault toilets, providing a more navigable path for visitors with mobility needs. This commitment to accessibility ensures that a wider range of individuals can enjoy the unique beauty of Stockton Island.

Services Offered

Stockton Island Watercraft Campground provides essential services and amenities designed to enhance your remote camping experience. While it's a wilderness setting, the National Park Service has ensured that basic necessities are available to make your stay comfortable and safe. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Individual Campsites: There are 21 individual campsites available on Stockton Island, with two additional group sites. These individual sites are generally spread out, offering a sense of solitude and privacy amidst the natural surroundings.
Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a designated space for meal preparation and dining.
Fire Rings: Every campsite has a fire ring, allowing campers to enjoy campfires for warmth, cooking, and ambiance (when conditions permit). Remember to bring your own firewood, as collecting wood within the national park is prohibited.
Food Lockers (Bear-Resistant): To ensure the safety of both campers and wildlife, bear-resistant food lockers are provided at each campsite. These are crucial for storing food and scented items away from bears and other animals.
Tent Pads: Most campsites feature designated tent pads, typically 14' x 14', providing a level and cleared area for pitching your tent. Some sites may have raised wooden decks for tent pads, particularly the accessible sites.
Vault Toilets: Multiple vault toilets are spaced throughout the campground at key locations, near sites 3/4, 8/10, and 13/15 at Presque Isle Bay, as well as near the accessible sites.
Potable Water: Potable water is sometimes available near site 1 at Presque Isle. However, it's always advisable for campers to be prepared to filter or boil water from Lake Superior before consumption, as conditions can vary.
Docking: Public docks are available on Stockton Island, offering a place for private vessels to moor. Overnight docking fees apply from 6 PM to 6 AM. Many visitors also choose to anchor in the protected bays overnight, which is free of charge within the park.

Features / Highlights

Stockton Island Watercraft Campground offers a wealth of natural features and highlights that make it a truly special destination for campers in Wisconsin:

Pristine Beaches and Julian Bay's Singing Sands: Stockton Island boasts beautiful, sandy beaches, perfect for relaxing, swimming (if you brave the cold Lake Superior waters!), and enjoying stunning sunsets. A particularly unique feature is Julian Bay, known for its "singing sands." When conditions are just right, walking on the sand produces a distinct squeaking or "singing" sound – a phenomenon that delights many visitors.
Extensive Hiking Trails: As one of the largest islands in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Stockton Island offers miles of secluded and peaceful hiking trails. These trails wind through diverse ecosystems, including dense pine forests, lush bogs, windswept dunes, and tranquil lagoons. Popular trails lead to points of interest such as a historic brownstone quarry site and an abandoned Trout Point Logging Camp.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The island is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Campers often spot various bird species, and due to the presence of black bears on the island, proper food storage in bear-resistant lockers is essential. Observing wildlife in its natural habitat is a significant draw for many visitors.
Sea Cave Exploration (Nearby): While not directly on Stockton Island, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is famous for its intricate sea caves, carved by the relentless waves of Lake Superior. Many campers bring kayaks or canoes to explore these fascinating formations around Stockton Island and other nearby islands, offering an unforgettable paddling experience.
Stargazing: Far removed from urban light pollution, Stockton Island provides exceptional opportunities for stargazing. On clear nights, the night sky comes alive with an incredible display of stars, a truly humbling experience for those seeking to reconnect with the cosmos.
Remote Wilderness Experience: The defining highlight of Stockton Island is its untouched, remote wilderness character. Without paved roads or commercial development, campers can truly disconnect from modern distractions and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

Promotions or Special Offers

As Stockton Island Watercraft Campground is managed by the National Park Service as part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, direct commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional sense, like those found at private campgrounds, are not typically offered. The fee structure is standardized across the park for camping permits.

However, it is important for prospective campers to be aware of the reservation and permit fees, as well as potential discounts. Camping permits are required for all camping within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. As of current information, individual campsites cost $15 per night, and there is a $10 reservation fee for each trip. Group campsites, accommodating 8-21 campers, are $30 per night.

Holders of valid Interagency Senior Passes or Interagency Access Passes may be eligible for discounts on camping fees. It's recommended to check the official National Park Service website for the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (nps.gov/apis) or Recreation.gov for the most up-to-date information on fees, any potential fee waivers, or specific programs that might reduce costs for certain visitors.

Additionally, while not a direct promotion from the campground, shuttle services to the island, such as those provided by Apostle Islands Cruises, may occasionally offer their own seasonal discounts or package deals for transportation. It is always a good idea to check with shuttle providers directly when planning your trip.

Contact Information

For Stockton Island Watercraft Campground, as it is part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, all camping reservations and inquiries are handled through the National Park Service system.

Address: Stockton Island, WI 54850, USA (Please remember, this is a wilderness island, not a physical street address with a visitor center on the island itself.)

For reservations and permits, the primary contact method is through Recreation.gov:

P: Via Recreation.gov website for online reservations (search for "Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits").

For general inquiries or to speak with a Park Ranger:

P: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Bayfield Headquarters Phone: 715-779-3398 (select option 2 for camping inquiries).

It is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance, especially during peak season, as sites can fill up quickly. Remember to print your official camping permit from your Recreation.gov account seven days prior to your trip or pick it up in person at the Bayfield Visitor Center if you are unable to print it.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Wisconsin, Stockton Island Watercraft Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural grandeur of our own backyard. It’s a chance to truly disconnect from the daily grind and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands, all within your home state. This isn't just another camping trip; it’s an adventure that celebrates Wisconsin's remarkable natural heritage.

The unique boat-in access means you’ll be sharing the island with like-minded individuals who value the wilderness and seek a deeper connection with nature. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker, a casual boater, or looking to try something new by utilizing a shuttle service, the journey to Stockton Island sets the tone for an extraordinary experience. Once there, you'll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, from the mystical singing sands of Julian Bay to the dense, ancient forests crisscrossed with hiking trails. The chance to witness stunning sunsets over Lake Superior, spot diverse wildlife, and enjoy incredible stargazing far from city lights makes Stockton Island a truly restorative retreat.

Furthermore, the National Park Service's efforts to provide accessible campsites mean that more Wisconsinites can enjoy this incredible destination, fostering a sense of inclusion for all outdoor enthusiasts. By choosing Stockton Island, you're not just booking a campsite; you're investing in an unforgettable memory, a renewed appreciation for Wisconsin's natural treasures, and a unique story to share. It's a testament to the wild beauty that awaits right here in our beloved state, making it an ideal destination for any local looking for an authentic and enriching outdoor adventure.