Camp on Madeline Island

The largest of Wisconsin's Apostle Islands, Madeline Island is about the size of Manhattan, but extremely sparsely populated and a great place to explore a north woods ecosystem. The best way to get to the island is by ferry from Bayfield to La Pointe. From La Pointe, it is about a ten minute drive to Big Bay Town Park, the best place to camp on the island. There is a state park with camping, but I suggest the town park for its proximity to the sandy beach and better amenities. 

A short walk from the campsites is a boardwalk that leads to Big Bog Lagoon and the beach. The lagoon is essentially a small lake on the island with dozens of islands to explore by canoe or kayak. It is also a great place to see the endangered sandhill crane. The campground provides canoes for campers. Lake Superior has a predominantly rocky shore, so take advantage of the sandy beach to swim, chill, and watch the sunrise. Finally, the beach is also the trailhead for a short boardwalk through a peat bog and northern wetland forest - two interesting ecosystems that are usually hard to access. 

Named for Madeline Cadotte, the daughter of Ojibwe Chief White Crane, the island has a rich American Indian history. The Ojibwe still have land and connections on the island and consider it an important spiritual place. As you explore, please respect the American Indian heritage.