North Lake Desor Campground

How does the idea of camping in one of the most secluded and rugged settings in Isle Royale National Park sound? North Lake Desor Campground offers an unparalleled backcountry experience, tucked along the serene northern shores of Lake Desor and accessible only via the challenging Minong Ridge Trail. This hike-in-only campground delivers a true sense of isolation, surrounded by dense forests, rocky outcrops, and pristine wilderness, making it ideal for backpackers seeking solitude and adventure.

This primitive campground features just three tent-only sites with no shelters, ensuring a peaceful and undisturbed stay. Each site provides access to the lake via a short, steep descent, where bare rock shorelines frame the water, offering a picturesque spot for reflection or basic water purification needs. The ambiance is tranquil, with minimal human presence, making it a perfect retreat away from the more popular hubs of Isle Royale. However, campers should come prepared, as there are no amenities beyond a pit toilet, and water must be treated from the lake.

Located far from Isle Royale’s bustling areas, North Lake Desor Campground is a midway point on the rugged Minong Ridge Trail, surrounded by breathtaking views of Lake Superior’s wilderness. Hikers can marvel at the cedar swamps, traverse challenging beaver dams, and enjoy cooling breezes on rocky ridges. While it demands stamina and preparation to reach, the reward is a camping experience steeped in raw natural beauty and profound solitude, ideal for multi-day backpacking itineraries.