Visit Fort Wilkins: Living History at Copper Harbor

When travelers wind their way up Michigan’s remote Keweenaw Peninsula, they’re met with stunning Lake Superior views, dense forests, and a surprising piece of military history tucked away at the northern tip: Fort Wilkins Historic State Park.

One of the Keweenaw National Historical Park network of heritage sites, this mid-19th-century military outpost offers visitors a rare window into frontier life, mining booms, and the evolving story of one of Michigan's most beautiful and remote regions. In a recent episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, hosts Walt Lindala and Frida Waara sat down with Barry James, Upper Peninsula historian with the Michigan History Center, to explore the rich history and enduring significance of Fort Wilkins.

In a recent episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, hosts Walt Lindala and Frida Waara sat down with Barry James, Upper Peninsula historian with the Michigan History Center, to explore the rich history and enduring significance of Fort Wilkins.

Why Was Fort Wilkins Built?

The story of Fort Wilkins begins shortly after Michigan achieved statehood in 1837. In 1840, geologist Douglas Houghton surveyed and documented copper deposits near Copper Harbor, sparking what James describes as a frenzy: “Houghton ends up writing a report to the Michigan legislature that goes viral.”

The rush for mineral lands created tensions and a need for “law and order,” according to James. The fort was built and served as a frontier military post, supporting mining operations and maritime navigation in one of the most remote regions of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

The Fort Today: A Living History Experience

Fort Wilkins is more than a preserved relic. It became a Michigan state park in 1923 and today, it offers immersive programs that transport visitors back to the summer of 1870—the fort’s final year of military occupation.

James notes, “We’ve got 19 buildings on site, but 12 are original, dating back to the 1840s.”

Visitors can explore furnished period rooms, interpretive exhibits, and engage with costumed interpreters as part of a living history program that began in 1976.

Each summer, the site hosts four youth camps through the museum’s "Future Historians" program. Kids dress in costume, portray real people from the 1870 census, and learn about 19th-century life in first person.

This summer, a new permanent exhibit will open in the long-closed West Met Hall, detailing how the fort transitioned into a state park with national significance. 

Lighthouses and Lake Superior Navigation

Another highlight of Fort Wilkins State Park is the Copper Harbor Lighthouse and its associated range lights. These were built after the 1844 shipwreck of the John Jacob Astor, one of the fort's two main supply vessels.

Barry shares, “The Astor was the first wreck on Lake Superior... the military realized their lifeline could be easily snapped.”

Congress responded by funding lighthouses in Copper Harbor and Whitefish Point. Today, the Copper Harbor Light remains an active aid to navigation and houses a maritime museum open to visitors.

Plan Your Visit to Fort Wilkins

Whether you’re a history buff, a camper, or just looking to explore Lake Superior’s south shore, Fort Wilkins offers something special. In addition to its immersive exhibits and campgrounds, the area has become a hub for biking, snowshoeing, and even launching trips to Isle Royale.

James sums it up best: “The beauty of the place, right? You’ve got water, you’ve got woods, you’ve got winter, and it really is unique.”

The Fort Wilkins State Park website offers all the details you need to plan your visit. You can also check out the Keweenaw National Historical Park website to learn more about Fort Wilkins and other heritage sites on the Keweenaw Peninsula.

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About The NPLSF

The National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation (NPLSF) exists to provide financial support for projects and programs that preserve the natural resources and cultural heritage of the five Lake Superior national parks: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Grand Portage National Monument, Isle Royale National Park, Keweenaw National Historical Park, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Funded through grants and private donations, NPLSF projects and programs ensure that these great parks and historic sites are maintained for the enjoyment of all current and future visitors.

To learn how you can support our work visit nplsf.org/donate.