In 1963 President Kennedy was so impressed with the beauty of the Apostle Islands, that he decreed that they should become the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and be protected for all time. You can enjoy their undisturbed wildness by visiting northern Wisconsin The headquarters of the park is located in Bayfield, Wisconsin, which is an easy drive from most places in the Midwest. Several water taxis operating out of Bayfield will take you out to the islands to camp, but you must check in with the park service before you go. Or, if you prefer, there is a cruise service that goes to the Islands and visits the lighthouses of the Apostles. Your visit to Apostles Islands National Park should include time to spend in both the quaint village of Bayfield and neighboring Madeline Island. Madeline Island is the only one of the Apostles that has year-round inhabitants, and they will gladly share with you their experiences, history and culture. Ask any local what it’s like to live on an island in the severe northern winter and you’ll hear stories of both high jinx and grim survival. A wide variety of both summer and winter activities await you in this area. Do it all at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.