This stretch of the Greenstone Ridge Trail connects two campgrounds; South Lake Desor and Washinton Creek at Windigo, and provides access to Island Mine and Sistiwit Bay Campgrounds via the Island Mine Trail. Island Mine Campground is only a half mile from the Greenstone Ridge Trail near Sugar Mountain.

The Island Mine Campground is deep in the sugar-maple forest and provides individual and group campsites and pit toilets. Water is available from a nearby stream that\'s cool and clear. This is the only campground not bordering an inland lake, cove, or Lake Superior, but from late September to mid-October, when the trees show off their brilliant fail colors, Island Mine is a great place to pitch a tent.

Washington Creek Campground has 10 shelters along the creek, toilets, tables, and piped-in water, along with individual and group campsites. There is often a camp moose-– if not a couple – visiting the stream at dusk. Keep in mind that Washington Creek is an extremely popular place for backpackers to spend a night or two. If there is an open shelter, stake it out before heading to the showers or camp store in Windigo.

Shower tokens, a clean towel, and a bar of soap can be purchased at the camp store in Windigo. Some backpackers like to book a rustic cabin in Windigo that offers basic accommodations. For reservations, contact the park concessionaire, Forever Resorts (866-644-2003 or 906-337-4993 in summer; www.isleroyaleresort.com).