Can You Stay Overnight On Belle Isle?

The purpose of this article is to provide information about whether it is permitted to stay overnight on Belle Isle in Detroit, Michigan. Belle Isle is a 982-acre island park located in the Detroit River between mainland Detroit and Canada. It has a long history, originally used by Native Americans before French settlers colonized it in the 1700s. It was turned into a city park in the late 1800s and designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Today it remains a popular public park known for its picnic areas, trails, historic structures, and views of downtown Detroit. This article will explore the overnight policies, permitted activities, prohibited activities, amenities, safety, lodging options, parking, and reservations pertaining to staying overnight on Belle Isle.

Overnight Policies

Overnight camping is permitted at Belle Isle State Park in designated areas with a valid camping permit (Source: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/wedbiguidelines.pdf). The Bel Air Mansion area offers 6 primitive campsites that can accommodate up to 8 people each. Campers must check-in at the contact station before going to their campsite.

Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM, during which loud noises and music are prohibited (Source: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/belle-isle). Fires are only allowed in designated fire rings or grills. Gathering firewood in the park is prohibited.

Alcohol is not permitted at campsites without an Alcohol Ban Exemption Permit obtained in advance (Source: https://www.belleisleconservancy.org/belle-isle-frequently-asked-questions). All campers must adhere to park rules and regulations during their overnight stay.

Permitted Activities

When visiting Belle Isle Park, there are a variety of recreational activities to enjoy. Some of the most popular permitted activities on the island include:

Fishing – The island offers shore fishing opportunities. There are designated fishing areas along the Blue Heron Lagoon and Lake Okonoka. A Michigan fishing license is required for those over 17 years old.

Picnicking – Picnicking is allowed in designated areas with picnic tables and grills. Pack a lunch or dinner and find a peaceful waterside spot to enjoy your meal.

Hiking & Biking – Over 5 miles of scenic trails allow visitors to explore the island by foot or bike. The River Walk is a 3.5 mile trail that loops around the island and offers great riverfront views.

Prohibited Activities

There are certain activities that are prohibited on Belle Isle. This is to ensure the safety of visitors and maintain the park environment.

According to the Belle Isle Conservancy, alcohol is prohibited on Belle Isle without a permit from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Public intoxication and disorderly conduct are also prohibited.

The Belle Isle Code of Ordinances prohibits hunting, trapping, or shooting any animals on Belle Isle. Firearms and other weapons are also prohibited without a permit.

Additionally, the use of fireworks on Belle Isle is illegal according to Michigan state law. Campfires and open flames are only allowed in designated grilling areas with a permit from the DNR.

Amenities

Belle Isle has basic amenities to make overnight stays comfortable. There are public restrooms spread throughout the island that are open 24 hours. These include flush toilets and sinks with running water. There are no public showers available. It’s a good idea to bring your own drinking water and toilet paper.

While there are no water fountains on the island, there are multiple spigots with potable drinking water available. These are located near picnic shelters and restroom facilities. Be sure to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

There are no electrical outlets available for public use on the island. If you need power for phones, flashlights, etc., make sure devices are fully charged ahead of time. Consider bringing a portable power station or battery pack.

Safety

Overall, Belle Isle is considered a safe place to visit during the day. However, there are some safety considerations to keep in mind if staying overnight.

In terms of emergency services, Belle Isle has a Detroit Police Department precinct located on the island that is staffed 24/7 according to the official Belle Isle Park website (source). There are also EMS services available on the island.

The crime rate on Belle Isle is quite low, especially during the day. However, some precautions are recommended at night according to locals on Reddit (source). It’s advised not to leave valuables visible in your vehicle and to lock it.

In terms of wildlife, there are no major safety concerns. Deer and birds are the main animals found on the island.

Overall, spending the night on Belle Isle appears relatively safe, especially if precautions are taken. However, the availability of emergency services provides an extra level of security if needed.

Lodging

Overnight visitors to Belle Isle have several options for lodging on or near the island. For a true camping experience right on the island, RV parking and tent camping is allowed in designated areas.

The Scott Fountain area near the eastern tip of the island offers RV parking with electrical hookups. There is a per-night fee to park and plug in your RV. Tent camping is also allowed in this area. Keep in mind there are no shower facilities, so campers will need to be self-contained.

For those without an RV, there are a number of hotels located just off the island in downtown Detroit. The Westin Book Cadillac is a historic luxury hotel attached to the island by a pedestrian bridge. There are also more budget-friendly chains like Comfort Inn and Holiday Inn Express near the island.

Boat owners can also anchor overnight near the island shores. However, there are no marina slips or docking facilities for overnight mooring.

With both affordable camping and luxurious hotels minutes away, Belle Isle offers flexible lodging options to match any overnight visitor’s needs and budget.

Parking

There are several designated overnight parking areas on Belle Isle for visitors who wish to stay overnight. According to the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, overnight parking and camping is permitted only at the Belle Isle campground and nearby picnic area (Virginia DCR). The campground provides 60 campsites with electrical hookups that can be reserved in advance. Overflow primitive camping is allowed in the adjacent picnic area once all campsites are occupied.

Visitors who wish to park overnight outside of the designated campground will need to obtain a parking permit. Daytime parking elsewhere on the island is limited and regulated. According to Venture Richmond, the main public parking lot charges a fee and closes at dusk (Venture Richmond). Those looking to stay overnight on their boat can dock at the marina, which offers short-term transient slips.

In summary, overnight parking and camping on Belle Isle is permitted only in designated areas. Visitors should acquire the proper permit or make reservations at the campground in advance to avoid being ticketed or towed.

Reservations

If you wish to stay overnight on Belle Isle, you will need to obtain a permit from the Belle Isle Park office. Permits allow visitors to stay at one of the 10 designated campsites on the island. Campsites are available on a first come, first served basis and spots fill up quickly, especially in the summer months.

Permits must be obtained in person at the Belle Isle Park Office located on the island. The office is open from 9am to 5pm, 7 days a week during the main camping season between April and October. Permit fees are $15 per night on weekdays and $20 per night on weekends. Permits allow up to 6 people to stay per campsite.

It’s recommended to arrive early in the day, ideally before noon, to secure a campsite permit. All sites are likely to be claimed on Friday and Saturday nights during peak season. If you arrive later in the day, you risk not getting a permit and having to leave the island by 10pm when the park closes. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

Conclusion

In summary, yes, overnight camping on Belle Isle is permitted with a reservation and permit. Camping areas are limited to certain designated sites within the park. General park hours are from 5am to 10pm, though registered campers can access the island 24/7 during their stay. All trash and belongings must be removed when departing. Safety precautions like locking valuables should be taken since the island is public. For more information or to make camping reservations, contact the Belle Isle Park office at 313-821-9844 or visit their reservation website. With proper planning and preparation, an overnight camping trip on Belle Isle can be an enjoyable urban wilderness experience.