'Increasingly Bold' Wolf Forces Campsite Closure On Isle Royale In Northern MI

ISLE ROYALE, MI — A well-known campground on Isle Royale is closed due to an "increasingly bold" wolf in the area, according to park officials.

Park officials are temporarily closing individual tent and group campsites at the Three Mile Campground, which is located just three miles from the Rock Harbor hub and ferry terminals on the island's eastern end.

The aggressive wolf was spotted in the campground, sniffing and pawing at tents, dragging backpacks away from tents and even entering a tent, park officials said.

"The wolf has become increasingly bold, showing signs of habituation and a growing reliance on human food," park officials said.

Park officials have improved trash and recycling management and enforced stricter food storage rules, but wolves on the island are still interested in human food and trash.

This most recent incident has prompted park officials to intensify their hazing efforts during daylight hours in campgrounds and developed areas to discourage the wolf from returning to the areas.

Hazing methods include loudly shouting, stomping, clapping, sounding airhorns and discharging paintball guns.

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," Park Superintendent Denice Swanke said. "We ask for your support in securing food, trash and scented items consistent with 2026 food storage guidelines."

Park officials are hoping to reopen the campsites on Aug. 1, but warned the closure could continue and additional regulations or closures could occur throughout the park if necessary.