Best National Parks to Camp in August 2025

August is one of the most popular months to explore the USA’s Northeast and Midwest national parks.

From the rugged coastlines of Maine to the glassy wilderness lakes of Minnesota, this region is packed with unforgettable natural escapes.

Whether you’re pitching a tent near the ocean, paddling through remote islands, or hiking to high mountain summits, knowing the exact fees, passes, and camping costs for August 2025 can save you both money and stress.

This guide covers Acadia National Park, Isle Royale, Sleeping Bear Dunes, Apostle Islands, and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness—complete with updated entrance fees, camping rates, and insider tips to help you plan the perfect summer adventure.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia is famous for its mix of rocky shores, lush forests, and scenic peaks like Cadillac Mountain. It’s also lobster season, so you can pair your campfire dinner with a fresh catch from Bar Harbor.

Campsite Breakdown:

• Blackwoods – 6 sites (closest to Bar Harbor)
• Schoodic Woods – 30 sites (quiet and scenic)
• Seawall – 198 sites (great for families)
• Duck Harbor – 5 remote sites

Camping Fees:

• Blackwoods: $30/night (individual), $60/night (group)
• Schoodic Woods: $22–$40/night
• Seawall: $22–$30/night
• Duck Harbor: $20/night

Pro Tip: The Schoodic Peninsula area tends to be quieter than Bar Harbor—perfect for avoiding peak-season crowds.

Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

Remote, wild, and surrounded by the deep waters of Lake Superior, Isle Royale is a dream for backpackers.

There are no drive-in campgrounds here—everything is backcountry. That means you’ll be carrying all your gear, camping in designated zones, and likely arriving by ferry or seaplane.

Campground Overview:

• 36 total campgrounds including Rock Harbor, Daisy Farm, McCargoe Cove, and Chippewa Harbor.

Camping Fees:

• Small parties: Free camping (permit required) + $7/person/day
• Groups: $25 permit fee + $7/person/day
• Windigo Camper Cabins: $50/night

Pro Tip: Check ferry schedules carefully. Lake Superior weather can delay or cancel trips, so keep your itinerary flexible.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan

August is the perfect month to camp at Sleeping Bear Dunes—Lake Michigan’s waters are at their warmest, and the Perseid meteor shower lights up the night sky.

Campsite Counts:

• Platte River – 179 sites
• D.H. Day – 88 sites
• South Manitou Island – 3 campgrounds
• North Manitou Island – Backcountry camping

Camping Fees:

• Platte River: Rates vary, reservations needed May–Oct
• D.H. Day: $20/night (peak), $10/night (shoulder)
• Backcountry (White Pine): $13/night
• South Manitou (Bay Group): $20–$23/night

Pro Tip: Late August is a sweet spot—water temperatures are warmer, and summer crowds begin to thin.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin

August offers the calmest waters of the year for kayaking among the Apostle Islands’ famous sea caves. Days are warm, nights are cool, and bugs are minimal.

Camping Options:

• 18 islands open for camping, including Oak, Basswood, Hermit, and Stockton.

Camping Fees:

• Individual Sites: $15/night
• Primitive Zones: $15/night
• Group Sites: $30/night
• Reservation Fee: $10/trip

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in summer, consider booking a guided kayak tour to explore the sea caves

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota

Known for its labyrinth of lakes and quiet paddling routes, Boundary Waters is a bucket-list trip for canoe lovers.

Camping Facts:

• 2,000+ designated wilderness campsites.

Camping Fees:

• Reservation Fee: $6/permit
• Adults: $16/trip
• Youth: $8/trip
• Off-season: Free self-issued permit

Pro Tip: Launch early in the morning for calmer waters and a higher chance of spotting moose or bald eagles.

Final Word

The USA’s Northeast and Midwest offer a rare mix of wild beauty and accessible adventures, but smart planning makes all the difference.

By knowing the exact 2025 park fees and camping costs ahead of time, you can spend more time hiking, paddling, and stargazing—and less time stressing over your wallet.

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