An example of an approved animal-resistant food storage container.
NPS
In order to protect wildlife and visitors, new food storage regulations are in place within Isle Royale National Park.
New for 2025
Animal-resistant containers are now required for overnight camping.
Containers on this list, typically known as "bear-resistant cannisters," are approved. Containers not on this list are not guaranteed to be in food storage compliance.
Do not leave belongings unattended.
Boaters must secure items in boat cabin or container.
Recreation
Food Storage Regulations
Campers, Backpackers, Paddlers
1. Store items in animal-resistant container.
2. If in a shelter, keep container in shelter.
3. If in a tent site, place container in food storage locker.
4. If no food storage locker, hang container 12 feet high, 6 feet from tree trunk. If unable to hang, secure container to a boulder, log, or tree 200 feet from camp.
Cross-Country Campers
Hang container 12 feet high, 6 feet from tree trunk. If unable to hang, secure container to a boulder, log, or tree 200 feet from camp.
Boaters
Secure items in boat cabin or container.
Daytrippers, Lodge Guests
Use backpack storage areas.
An example food storage locker. Food storage lockers will be implemented at every Isle Royale campground throughout the 2025 season.
NPS
Food Storage Lockers
Throughout the 2025 season, park staff will be implementing food storage lockers at every campground throughout Isle Royale. Installation is ongoing and lockers may or may not be in place at the time of your trip.
Food storage lockers are not for full packs; put food and items in animal resistant container and place in locker.
Do not leave trash in lockers or abandon items.
If in a shelter, keep container in shelter in order to save space in food storage locker.
Promptly re-secure food after a meal or snack to not attract wildlife.
Tom Brown
General Food Storage
Keep a clean camp. Wildlife will steal unattended food, even if it's left out for a short amount of time.
Do not leave food unattended when visiting or camping in a frontcountry area, such as Rock Harbor or Windigo.
Never feed wildlife.
Do not leave food or abandon items in food storage lockers.
Trash
All trash and leftover food (including peels, cores, and nutshells) must be properly stored and packed out.
On island trash disposal can only be found in Rock Harbor and Windigo.
Do not burn, bury, or place garbage in outhouses or pit toilets. Carry a ziplock bag for securing small pieces of trash.
Do not leave trash or abandon items in food storage lockers.
