Friends of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore was established in 1970 to preserve the naturally wild and beautiful Lake Superior islands in northern-most Wisconsin.
“The Friends” have supported the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore since 2002.

Celebrate the
50th Anniversary

WATCH: Sense
of Adventure

2021
Summer Challenge

News from the Friends

September 26, 2021Celebratory candles, commitment and cupcakes mark finale of 50th Anniversary festivities

On Saturday night, September 25, 2021 Friends of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore held a candlelight ceremony on a Lake Superior beach to celebrate, to honor, and to recommit ourselves …

September 25, 2021Wisconsin Governor issues proclamation celebrating Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and its positive impact

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers issued a proclamation in honor of the park's first half century in existence and its positive impact on the state and its people as it begins …

September 23, 2021Watch now: Sense of Adventure: Inspire!

In our new installment of our “Sense of Adventure” series, part of our 50th anniversary summer celebration, we will look at the many ways these islands and this lake inspire …

September 22, 2021Lakeshore Logbook – Warren Bielenberg

One of the first park employees shares his memories of the early days of the National Lakeshore. Days filled with accomplishments and opportunities.

September 15, 2021Ribbon cutting celebrates Wisconsin Lake Superior Scenic Byway’s national designation

The adventure and beauty of a visit to the Apostle Islands begins even before you set foot in the National Lakeshore.

September 15, 2021Lakeshore Logbook – Heidi Van Dunk

Heidi Van Dunk started as a volunteer and wore many hats in the years that followed.

September 14, 2021Luminaires on the Lake: Apostle Islands Anniversary Commemoration set for Saturday, September 25th

You're invited to a candlelight commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, to wrap up the year-long celebration.

September 13, 2021New research published: Apostle Islands play key role in regional spread of American marten populations

Researchers used DNA from hair samples to estimate how many animals are in the park and where their relatives live. They published the results of that work this summer.

September 13, 2021Park visitors praise Stockton Island amphitheater and ongoing accessibility initiatives

With tears in her eyes she expressed her gratitude for the amphitheater…

September 12, 2021Kids paint their passion for the Apostle Islands as stewardship flags fly high at Bayfield Art Fair

Artists as young as a-year-and-a-half up to adults painted more than 100 flags showing their love for the Apostle Islands.

September 8, 2021Lakeshore Logbook – Jim Stowell

Jim Stowell says knowing his programs connect with park visitors fills him with pride. So do the lasting relationships he built on Raspberry Island.

September 7, 2021Experience youth stewardship art and make your own on Saturday

Come peruse the creative expression of local youth from this summer, and/or, join us in creating a visual representation and message about why you love the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore …

JOIN THE 50TH CELEBRATION!

In 2020 and 2021 the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore celebrates 50 years as a part of the National Park system. Join us for a year of special events and celebrations to mark the occasion.

Learn More

Yes, I want to help

Your investment in the Friends of the Apostle Islands helps us to enhance and protect the park we all love. Learn about giving options for individuals and businesses.

Donate now with a debit card or credit card or with PayPal

Learn about how the donation process works.

More ways to invest in the park you love

Four pillars of the Friends mission

Accessibility

From accessible boardwalks and docks to approachable information, Friends works to improve accessibility to the Park for visitors of all abilities.
Learn more

Education

Part of our mission is to help protect, preserve and share the rich history of the Apostle Islands for future generations.
Learn more

Service

We focus on practices and projects that safely enhance the visitor experience while encouraging a sense of adventure.
Learn More

Stewardship

We strive to build a foundation that ensures sustainable protection of all park resources – cultural and natural.
Learn More

Join our cause

Want to be a Friend? Invest your time, talent or treasure in the park we all love.

Join our cause with an individual or a business contribution.

Or join our list of volunteers to help improve your National Lakeshore.

Connect with us

We want to hear from you! Use our online form, email us or write us by mail at:

Friends of the Apostle Islands
P.O. Box 1574
Bayfield, Wisconsin 54814

Shop with Friends

Show your love of the islands and support for the Friends by purchasing our beautiful annual Apostle Islands fine art prints.

Also, visit our 50th Anniversary store to see special commemorative gifts, many made by local artisans.

Home