🎒
RecommendedWild Ideas
Bearikade Weekender
Ultralight carbon fiber bear canister. IGBC certified.
1 lb 15 ozultralightcarbon-fiber
$325
Rock Island Backpack Campsites permit
Rock Island Gear Checklist
What to carry on Rock Island, and why. 5 more are worth the pack space.
5Total Items
5To bring
What to bring on Rock Island
Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list.
- Bring
A pack, or a small cart that will fit on a ferry with limited space
- Bring
Cash for firewood
DNR notes there is no camp store on the island
- Bring
Everything for the whole stay; you cannot drive back for it
- Bring
Dry bags if you are paddling in rather than taking the ferry
- Bring
A wind layer
the sites sit on an exposed Lake Michigan island
Going as a group? Split this list between you so nobody carries two stoves.
Plan a trip hereGeneral backcountry gear
General backcountry kit. Rock Island State Park (WI)'s own rules for this permit are above.
🎒
RecommendedKatadyn
BeFree 1L
Ultralight collapsible filter system.
2 ozultralightfast-flow
$44.95
🎒
RecommendedBearVault
BV500 Bear Vault
The most popular bear canister for Sierra backpacking. Fits 7 days of food.
2 lbs 9 oz7-day capacityapproved
$89.95
🎒
RecommendedBlack Diamond
Distance Carbon Z
Lightweight folding carbon poles.
1 lb 1 ozcarbonfolding
$169.95
🎒
RecommendedSawyer
Sawyer Squeeze
The most popular water filter for backpacking.
3 ozpopularreliable
$37.95
Gear Tips for Rock Island
💡 Pro Tips
- •Weigh your pack before you go. A lighter pack makes for a happier hike.
- •Rent expensive gear if you are trying a new activity for the first time.
- •Test all new gear at home before hitting the trail.
- •Some items are required seasonally. Check current regulations.