As part of the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, we’re going on a virtual tour with Neil Howk, a man who has spent decades exploring the islands and teaching people about what makes them special. He knows the islands like the back of his hand.
At the ninth stop on our digital tour, and in honor of Father’s Day, Neil and his son Forrest are on the largest island in the park, Stockton Island. Stockton is a great spot for family recreation. It is located at 46.9304° N, 90.5928° W.
Stockton Island features 15 miles of hiking trails including a loop trail around Anderson Point, a hike to an historic brownstone quarry, and the spectacular Tombolo Trail that traverses a variety of plant communities.
National Park Service Map
The island is also known for its unique lagoon ecosystem with multiple carnivorous plants and blueberries loved by hikers and by the black bears that inhabit the island. Piping plovers nest nearby.
It takes more than a day to explore the trails, experience the singing sands on Julian Bay beach, and swim in its relatively warm water.
Sheltered bays offer protected anchorages for power and sailboats. Paddlers love the dramatic sea stacks and cliffs along the northeast coast.
The Presque Isle Campground is one of the most beautiful campgrounds in any national park. The largest campground in the national lakeshore features 16 campsites scattered along 0.75 miles of shoreline. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, tent pad, fire ring, and bear-proof food locker. Overnight island use is presently closed until further notice. When camping in the park reopens, reservations are available through www.recreation.gov .
Stockton Island has 23 miles of shoreline. It’s 7.5 miles long and 2.5 miles wide. With more than 10,000 acres, there’s lots more to explore! Look for another digital adventure next week. To play along, simply like the Friends of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Facebook pageand check back next Wednesday for the clue to next week’s location. Make a guess in the comments and we’ll post the answer on Thursday. Click here to learn about Neil.
