ISLE ROYALE, Mich. – Visitors to Michigan’s only national park will be unable to stay at the Three Mile Campground this month due to ongoing wolf activity, officials announced last week.
Park Service rangers at Isle Royale National Park say that campsites and off-trail camping zones camp at the campground — located on the northeast side of the island — will be closed through July 31 out of an abundance of caution after a wolf has been spotted sniffing and pawing at tents, dragging backpacks away from campsites and even entering a tent.
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“The wolf has become increasingly bold, showing signs of habituation and a growing reliance on human food,“ the Park Service reported. ”The park has addressed the issue through hazing, improved trash and recycling management, and stricter food storage rules, but wolf interest in human food and trash continues."
Park rangers say the wolf’s focus on tents and backpacks is “a serious concern.” The temporary closure will allow for staff to increase hazing efforts — including loudly shouting, stomping, clapping, sounding airhorns, and discharging paintball guns — to discourage the wolf from returning.
Staff will also install noise-producing devices around Rock Harbor, Three Mile, and Daisy Farm Campgrounds to alert staff and visitors of wolf presence.
“Visitor safety and the protection of wildlife are our highest priorities,” said Park Superintendent Denice Swanke, in a news release. “We ask for your support in securing food, trash and scented items consistent with 2026 food storage guidelines.”
The shelters at the campground will remain open and the closure will be reevaluated on Aug. 1 to determine whether additional closures are necessary.