East Chickenbone Lake Campground Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

East Chickenbone Lake Campground is a backcountry camping area on Isle Royale National Park, Michigan—not Illinois—and is only accessible by foot or water, with no RV access.


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Summary

It offers established primitive campsites with vault (pit) toilets and no potable water—campers must filter lake water. No picnic tables, fire rings, or grills are provided, and fires are prohibited. A free permit is required (no reservations needed unless part of a group). Set in a serene forested area along Chickenbone Lake, it’s popular with hikers on the Greenstone Ridge and East Chickenbone Trails. Best visited June–September for mild weather and fewer bugs; great for solitude and wildlife viewing.

       

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Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

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