Commercial Use Authorizations

Commerical use authorizations are required for any groups such as camps, outfitters, tour groups, and any operation providing goods, activities, or service to the general public within the park.

LORI HONRATH

 

A Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) is a permit provided by Isle Royale National Park’s Commercial Services Office for appropriate commercial services for park visitors within the boundaries of the park. An appropriate commercial service must meet three conditions: the services (a) will have minimal impact on the park area’s resources and values; (b) are consistent with the purposes for which the park area was established; and (c) are consistent with all applicable park area management plans, policies, and regulations.

You must have a CUA to provide any goods, activities, services, agreements, or other function for park visitors that:

1. Take place at least in part on lands managed by the NPS
2. Use park resources
3. Result in compensation, monetary gain, benefit, or profit to you

 

 

Approved CUA Activities

CUAs are issued annually, beginning January 1 and expiring December 31.

The following CUA activities and associated conditions are currently approved as appropriate services at Isle Royale National Park:

• Guided Camping - Backcountry
• Guided Day Hiking/Walking – Frontcountry
• Environmental Education – Birding, Biology, etc.
• Photography Instruction
• Boat Tours – Motorized (Sailboat and Other)
• Boat Tours – Non-motorized (Kayaking)
• Fishing – Charter Vessel
• Scuba/Snorkel Tours

For more information, please go to the CUA Portal. Here you will find activity specific information including:

• List of approved activities
• Activity description
• Required operating conditions: NPS, Park, and Activity
• Application season

and helpful "how to" videos that will guide you through:

• Setting up an account
• Application process
• Reporting and fees

 

Additional Information

Additional general CUA information, including What is a CUA? and Do I need one? Can be found at Commercial Use Authorizations (U.S. National Park Service).

 

Contact Us

Please contact the Commericial Services Office by email with any CUA related questions.

 

Make Reservations Aboard RANGER III

Reservations for 2024 will be taken starting January 2, 2024

Current Conditions

Important park alerts, updates, and weather information for your upcoming visit.

Group Camping

Groups of 7 or more people need a group camping permit and advance reservations.

Commercial Services

View the organizations and businesses that are authorized to provide visitor services in the park.

Entrance Fees and Passes

Will Your Interagency Annual or Senior Pass cover entrance fees? Yes. Find out more details here.

For Your Safety

As your trip gets near, use this guide to help prepare, learn what to expect, and consider how you will take responsibility for your safety.