Isle Royale National Park has updated its food storage regulations, following similar actions taken by remote areas across the country. All campers, backpackers, and boaters must now use an approved animal-resistant container. To further reduce human-wildlife conflicts, park staff are installing new bear lockers at select locations across the island.
Situated about 40 miles off Minnesota’s mainland, Isle Royale rises from Lake Superior as a rugged, forested landscape. It covers roughly 850 square miles and is accessible only by air or water. Over 400 smaller satellite islands surround the main island. Once visitors reach the island, they will find a wilderness filled with inland lakes and a network of trails. Recreational activities include backpacking, hiking, boating, paddling, and diving. While amenities are limited, the island offers both lodging and camping. Backcountry campsites are especially popular among hikers. For those exploring over water, boat-in campgrounds are scattered along the shoreline.
Starting April 16, all campers must store food in animal-resistant containers. According to the National Park Service, this rule also applies to trash, scented items, cooking supplies and utensils, and fish. Anything smelly can attract animals, including rodents.
Approved storage methods
The park will also install food storage lockers at campgrounds across the island to address the challenges of storing food. Crews expect the installation work to continue throughout the season.
The park has published a list of approved animal-resistant canisters. The new order applies to all campers, backpackers, and boaters. Campers staying in shelters are directed to keep their containers inside the shelter. Tent campers should use the provided storage lockers. Boaters must store their food and trash inside their boat cabin or in an approved animal-resistant container or cooler.
Backcountry campers—such as backpackers or those in campgrounds where lockers aren’t yet installed—must hang their containers 12 feet high and 6 feet from the nearest tree trunk. If hanging isn’t possible, the park recommends securing containers to a boulder, log, or tree at least 200 feet from camp.
In more populated areas, visitors can prevent wildlife encounters by securing unattended food or scented items. Day visitors and lodge guests can store their items in backpack storage areas at Rock Harbor and Windigo/Ozaagaateng.
Park officials implemented this order to protect wildlife and visitors while minimizing campsite impacts. The change follows a similar 2024 food storage order in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Since that order, the USFS-Superior National Forest has reported a drop in unwanted animal-human encounters.
Visitors can check the park’s website for details on food storage regulations, or contact the Houghton Visitor Center at (906) 482-0984 or by email with any questions.
