Long Island Campsite

Hello, fellow Wisconsinites and outdoor enthusiasts! For those who dream of remote island escapes, the vast beauty of Lake Superior, and the unique allure of the Apostle Islands, Long Island Campsite near La Pointe, WI, offers an unparalleled camping adventure. This is not your typical drive-up campground; it’s a destination for true adventurers, accessible primarily by water, promising a pristine, secluded experience on the shores of one of the world's largest freshwater lakes. If you're a local seeking a genuine wilderness immersion, complete with stunning sunsets, the sound of lapping waves, and the thrill of reaching your campsite by kayak or boat, then Long Island Campsite is a destination that should be at the very top of your Wisconsin bucket list. We’re here to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of what makes this Apostle Islands gem a truly extraordinary place for local campers.

Long Island Campsite represents the epitome of primitive, water-access camping within the magnificent Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, though it is managed separately from the National Park Service sites, typically by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or local authority, offering a slightly different, yet equally captivating, experience. Unlike the more structured campgrounds, Long Island is for those who embrace self-sufficiency and a deeper connection with the natural environment. Its appeal lies in its seclusion and the pristine condition of its beachside sites. The challenge of reaching it by kayak, canoe, or private boat adds to the sense of accomplishment and ensures a quieter, less crowded atmosphere. Guests often highlight the stunning views of Lake Superior, the expansive beach, and the raw beauty of the island itself. It’s a place where the rhythmic lapping of waves replaces city noise, and the night sky explodes with stars, unmarred by light pollution. For Wisconsinites, this offers a unique opportunity to explore our own "freshwater ocean" and experience an island wilderness adventure that feels a world away, yet is right here in Northern Wisconsin. It’s perfect for seasoned paddlers, those with access to small boats, or anyone looking for a truly authentic, leave-no-trace camping experience.

Long Island Campsite is located near La Pointe, WI 54891, USA, with the Google Plus Code P6G9+QM further pinpointing its precise location. Critically, Long Island itself is part of the Apostle Islands archipelago in Lake Superior, situated just south of Madeline Island. This means the campsite is not accessible by car. Its primary access is by water:

• By Kayak or Canoe: This is a popular and highly recommended method for experienced paddlers. Launches are available from locations on the mainland (like Bayfield) or from Madeline Island (which is accessible by ferry from Bayfield). The paddle distance will vary depending on your launch point and experience level, requiring careful planning and awareness of Lake Superior's often unpredictable conditions.
• By Private Boat: For those with access to small motorboats, Long Island is also reachable by private vessel, offering a quicker and potentially more comfortable journey across the water.
• Proximity to La Pointe: La Pointe, located on Madeline Island, serves as a gateway to Long Island. Madeline Island itself is accessible via a regular ferry service from Bayfield, WI. La Pointe offers essential services, supplies, and potential outfitter services for those preparing for their island adventure.

For Wisconsin locals, this location offers a unique opportunity to experience the Apostle Islands without necessarily needing to venture far from home, provided they have the necessary watercraft and paddling skills. The journey to the island is an integral part of the adventure, emphasizing preparedness and a spirit of exploration. Its remote nature ensures a truly peaceful and secluded camping experience, a world away from bustling crowds.

As a primitive, water-access campsite, Long Island Campsite offers a very limited and basic set of services, designed to preserve the natural environment and encourage self-sufficiency. Campers should arrive fully prepared with all necessary gear and supplies, adhering strictly to "Leave No Trace" principles.

• Designated Campsites: The site typically provides designated, rustic areas suitable for pitching tents. These are often located directly on the beach or just behind the dune, offering unparalleled views and direct access to Lake Superior.
• No Potable Water: There is generally no source of potable (drinkable) water on Long Island. Campers must pack in all their own water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene, or bring a reliable water filter/purification system for treating lake water (though treating lake water requires careful consideration of its source and potential contaminants).
• No Restroom Facilities: Long Island Campsite usually does not have developed restroom facilities like vault toilets or flush toilets. Campers must be prepared to practice proper backcountry waste disposal, which involves digging a cathole a sufficient distance from water sources and trails, and packing out all toilet paper.
• No Electricity or Hookups: There are no electrical outlets or RV hookups. This is strictly for tent camping, and all power needs must be self-generated (e.g., portable battery banks for charging small devices).
• Fire Rings: Some primitive sites may have designated fire rings. However, campers should always check for current fire restrictions or bans, especially during dry periods. It is often recommended to bring your own firewood, as collecting wood on sensitive island environments may be prohibited or scarce.
• Water Access: The primary service is providing direct, primitive access to Lake Superior, ideal for launching kayaks, swimming (caution is advised due to cold water and currents), and enjoying the beach.
• Leave No Trace Principle: A fundamental "service" expectation is that all campers strictly adhere to "Leave No Trace" principles, meaning everything packed in must be packed out, leaving the campsite exactly as it was found or better.

Long Island Campsite offers several truly unique features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for experienced campers and paddlers in Wisconsin. These aspects emphasize its wild beauty and secluded nature.

• Stunning Lake Superior Beaches: The most prominent highlight is the opportunity to camp directly on the pristine sandy beaches of Lake Superior. This provides unparalleled views, the soothing sound of waves, and direct access to the water for swimming, paddling, and enjoying spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the vast lake.
• Seclusion and Solitude: Due to its water-access only nature, Long Island Campsite offers a level of seclusion and tranquility rarely found at drive-up campgrounds. It's ideal for those truly wishing to escape crowds and immerse themselves in a peaceful wilderness setting.
• Unique Island Ecosystem: The island environment provides opportunities to explore a distinct ecosystem, different from mainland forests. This can include unique flora and fauna adapted to island life.
• Exceptional Paddling Destination: For sea kayakers and canoeists, Long Island is a prime destination within the Apostle Islands. The journey to the island itself is an adventure, offering challenging and rewarding paddling opportunities on Lake Superior.
• Dark Skies for Stargazing: Far removed from significant light pollution, the night skies over Long Island are incredibly dark and clear, providing breathtaking opportunities for stargazing, celestial photography, and observing the Milky Way.
• Sense of Adventure and Self-Reliance: Reaching and camping on Long Island requires planning, preparedness, and self-sufficiency. This fosters a rewarding sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to the outdoor experience.
• Views of Other Apostle Islands: From Long Island, campers often have panoramic views of other Apostle Islands, adding to the picturesque scenery and the sense of being truly within this unique archipelago.

For inquiries regarding Long Island Campsite (part of the Apostle Islands archipelago near La Pointe, WI), direct contact should typically be made with the managing federal or local authority, as it is a primitive, unstaffed site. While a specific phone number for the campsite itself isn't provided, information can usually be obtained through the following channels:

Address: P6G9+QM, La Pointe, WI 54891, USA (This is a Google Plus Code for the general location of the island).

Recommended Contact Method:

Long Island is often managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), or in some cases, specific areas might fall under state or local jurisdiction, or even a tribal nation. The most reliable way to get current information on regulations, access, and any required permits is to search for:

• "Apostle Islands National Lakeshore camping" (though Long Island may be outside NPS jurisdiction, NPS websites often provide info on surrounding areas or refer to the correct agency).
• "Bureau of Land Management Wisconsin camping"
• "Madeline Island camping permits"

You might find contact numbers for a specific BLM field office or a local park/forest service office that oversees this particular island's use. It is absolutely crucial to obtain updated information on permits, fire restrictions, water availability, and waste disposal regulations directly from the managing authority before planning your trip to this primitive site.

Long Island Campsite offers an unparalleled and highly suitable experience for Wisconsin locals who possess an adventurous spirit and a deep reverence for the state's magnificent natural resources. For many Wisconsinites, the Apostle Islands represent the pinnacle of our state's wilderness beauty, and Long Island provides a unique, accessible way to immerse oneself in this iconic landscape. While it requires a commitment to self-reliance and water-based access, the reward is a truly pristine and secluded camping experience on the shores of Lake Superior, a "freshwater ocean" right in our backyard. This allows locals to experience a remote island getaway without the need for extensive travel far from home.

The opportunity for stunning beach camping, breathtaking sunsets over the lake, and unparalleled stargazing under exceptionally dark skies creates memories that last a lifetime. For those who enjoy sea kayaking, canoeing, or have a small boat, reaching Long Island becomes part of the adventure, adding to the satisfaction of a self-propelled journey into nature. This campsite is perfect for Wisconsinites looking to push their comfort zone slightly, embrace minimalist living, and reconnect with the raw, untamed beauty that defines Northern Wisconsin. It’s more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an invitation to explore a truly special corner of our state, offering an authentic wilderness escape that fosters resilience and a profound appreciation for our natural heritage.

Long Island Campsite

P6G9+QM, La Pointe, WI 54891, USA