Campsites at East Chickenbone Campground (2026 Guide)

Introduction

You can't reserve a site here. East Chickenbone Campground operates first-come, first-served, which means your entire trip hinges on timing and a little luck. That said, it's one of the quieter interior spots on Isle Royale's east side, and the trade-off for no reservations is a genuine backcountry experience with very few people. If you're planning an Isle Royale trip, this campground is worth knowing about - especially if you want to avoid the more crowded shoreline sites. For a broader look at the park, check out the complete visitor guide before you set dates.

Location and Access: Inland but Reachable

East Chickenbone Campground sits on the east end of Chickenbone Lake, off the East Chickenbone Trail. It's not on the water's edge - the West Chickenbone Campground is the one with direct lake access for canoes and kayaks. Getting to East Chickenbone requires either foot travel or a portage.

By Foot

If you're backpacking, you'll hike in on the East Chickenbone Trail. The terrain is typical Isle Royale: roots, rocks, and occasional mud. The trail connects to the Greenstone Ridge and other interior routes. Most visitors come from either McCargoe Cove or Lake Livermore trails.

By Canoe or Kayak

Paddlers can reach the campground but need to portage. Two options:

• From McCargoe Cove: a 1.2-mile portage to Chickenbone Lake.
• From Lake Livermore: a shorter 0.2-mile portage.

Note that the campground itself is not on the shoreline - you'll land at the lake and then walk a short distance to the sites. West Chickenbone Campground is better for watercraft access if you want to camp right on the water.

Driving Directions

The physical address for park headquarters is 800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931. East Chickenbone Campground is located on the east end of Chickenbone Lake, off of the East Chickenbone Lake Campground. You'll need to take a ferry or seaplane to Isle Royale, then hike or paddle to the site.

Campground Features and Fees

East Chickenbone has a total of four sites. Three are tent-only; the fourth is a group tent site that requires an advanced reservation for parties of seven or more. As of 2026, the small-party camping fee (six people or fewer) is $0.00, but you still need a free overnight permit from the park. Group site costs $25.00 per permit.

Stay Limit

From June 1 through Labor Day annually, the maximum stay is two nights. Outside that window, longer stays may be permitted. The park operates from April 16 to October 31; the campground is open 24 hours a day during that season.

Permits

You must obtain a free backcountry permit before setting out. Permits are available at the visitor center in Houghton, at Rock Harbor, or at Windigo. Rangers will tell you to fill out your itinerary accurately - they check permits on the trail.

What You Need to Know About Wildlife and Food Storage

As of 2026, there are new food storage guidelines in effect for the east end of the island, including East Chickenbone Campground. This is due to wolves accessing human food and garbage around Rock Harbor and nearby campgrounds. The park service now requires stricter food handling procedures:

• Use the provided food hang cables or bear canisters (if you brought one).
• Store all food, trash, and scented items away from your tent.
• Cook and eat at least 100 feet from your sleeping area.

This isn't the usual "hang your food" reminder - the wolf situation is serious. Wolves that get accustomed to human food become a danger to themselves and to visitors. The park explicitly updated guidelines to reduce interaction. Follow them.

Sites and Layout

The four sites are spaced well apart for privacy. There are no modern amenities - this is backcountry camping with a pit toilet (the typical Isle Royale vault toilet, clean enough but nothing fancy). No potable water; you'll treat water from Chickenbone Lake. No trash service; pack out everything.

The sites are primitive: a tent pad, a fire grate (if fires are allowed - check current fire danger), and maybe a picnic table. The ground is uneven in spots; bring a sleeping pad with decent thickness.

Seasonal Considerations and Timing

The campground is open April 16 to October 31. However, the park's peak season is mid-May through September. Early season (April to mid-May) can have snow and cold temps; late October can be biting. Mosquitoes and black flies are at their worst in June and July. Late August and September offer the best balance of decent weather and fewer bugs.

What the Park Website Doesn't Mention

Most visitors underestimate the portage distance if they're paddling. A 1.2-mile portage with a loaded canoe is not trivial. Also, the trail to the campground from Chickenbone Lake is not clearly marked at the landing - keep an eye out for the trail sign near the lake's east shore.

Cell service drops out at the trailhead and doesn't return. Prepare accordingly.

Practical Takeaways

Key points for planning your East Chickenbone Campground trip in 2026:

• Reservations: Not available. First-come, first-served. Arrive early in the day to secure a site, especially in summer.
• Stay limit: Two nights max, June 1-Labor Day.
• Permits: Free but mandatory. Get yours before you start hiking.
• Food storage: Follow the updated guidelines - store food away from sleeping areas and use provided cables.
• Water: Bring a filter or treatment. Lake water is plentiful but not safe to drink raw.
• Portage distances: 1.2 miles from McCargoe Cove, 0.2 miles from Lake Livermore. Plan your paddle day accordingly.
• Campsite count: 4 sites (3 tent-only, 1 group). Group site requires advance reservation for parties of 7+.
• Note the buoy alert: The Middle Islands Passage buoy is off course as of 2026. Use caution if boating in that area.

For comparison with other Isle Royale campgrounds, see our guide to all campgrounds on the island.

Final Thoughts

East Chickenbone Campground is a solid choice if you want solitude and don't mind carrying your gear a bit. It's not the easiest campground to reach, but that's what keeps it quiet. The new food storage rules add a layer of responsibility, but they're straightforward to follow. If you're paddling, decide whether the portage is worth it - West Chickenbone might serve you better. If you're hiking through the interior, this is a reliable stop. Just don't count on a guaranteed spot.