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.
Latest News from the Friends
- Unmanned sailing vessels to study fish populations in the Apostle Islands
They might be the strangest looking sailboats that you’ve ever seen navigating the Apostles, but later this month, two bright orange saildrones, with no sailors onboard, will be traversing Lake Superior, collecting data about fish populations. - Ageless in the Apostles: Are you ever too old for an island adventure?
We are all aging (the median age of the group was 70 this year), but we are still strong paddlers and competent campers. Perhaps it was only the oldest one of us who had been giving the “at what age …” question serious consideration. - The big chill: What causes dramatic changes in Lake Superior water temperatures
In late July surface water temperatures on the lake’s north shore dropped 20 degrees in just a few days, to near-record lows. - Holiday weekend delivers typically atypical island adventures
We may try to plan our visits across the water but in the Apostle Islands, it’s the wind and waves that determine time and destiny.
Top stories archive
What Friends are for
What is a Friends group? How do groups like ours help our national parks and specifically the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore? Watch our new video to learn the answers. We hope you’re inspired to join us.
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 the brand new amphitheater to board-walks and docks and approachable information, Friends works to improve accessibility to the Park for visitors of all abilities.
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Education
Part of our mission is to help protect, preserve and share the rich history of the Apostle Islands for future generations.
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Service
We focus on practices and projects that safely enhance the visitor experience while encouraging a sense of adventure.
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Stewardship
We strive to build a foundation that ensures sustainable protection of all park resources – cultural and natural.
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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
Sign up for the Friends newsletter.
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.