Lime Island State Recreation Area

Michigan (Chippewa County)

Lime Island State Recreation Area sits on a 980-acre island in the St. Mary’s River in Chippewa County, placing it squarely in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula — one of the most remote and rewarding corners of the state. Accessible only by boat, Lime Island rewards the effort it takes to get there with solitude, striking river views, and a landscape shaped by centuries of Great Lakes history.

The island served as a refueling station for Great Lakes freighters in the late 1800s, and remnants of that era — including old kilns and dock structures — still dot the shoreline, giving hikes a sense of discovery. A network of trails winds through hardwood forests and along rocky beaches, offering excellent wildlife viewing. Bald eagles, loons, and white-tailed deer are regular sights, and the surrounding waters attract kayakers and anglers chasing walleye and northern pike.

Rustic campsites are available on the island, most positioned near the water with views of passing freighters navigating the shipping channel. There are no modern amenities — no electricity, no running water — so come prepared for a true backcountry experience. A boat launch on the mainland at Raber provides the most common access point.

The best time to visit is late June through September, when water conditions are calmest for the crossing and the island is lush and alive. Lime Island is a place for those who want to unplug completely — no crowds, no noise, just the river, the forest, and a landscape that feels untouched.