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A Minnesota Wilderness Adventure
In many ways, Voyageurs National Park is similar to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
In other ways it is very different. The BWCAW, with the official designation as wilderness, has access limited by permit. Voyageurs' four entry points are open to all. You will also find fewer portages here than in the Boundary Waters.
The Boundary Waters is traveled by non-motorized watercraft...canoes.
The Boundary Waters is traveled by non-motorized watercraft...canoes.
Voyageurs allows motorboats, pontoons and houseboats as well as canoes and kayaks.
The park is situated on four large lakes: Rainy Lake, Kabetogama, Namakan and Sand Point.
If all of this makes it sound like Voyageurs is a busy, buzzing place it isn't so.
Voyageurs National Park is one of the least visited national parks in the U.S. however this "hidden gem" could be the destination for one of the best Minnesota vacations of a lifetime. Get inspired with Paddling the Boundary Waters and Voyageurs National ParkThe park is situated on four large lakes: Rainy Lake, Kabetogama, Namakan and Sand Point.
If all of this makes it sound like Voyageurs is a busy, buzzing place it isn't so.
Where to Stay in Voyageurs National Park
Campgrounds: there are more than 200 campsites; all are accessible only by boat. At most of them you will find a tent pad, fire ring, picnic table, privy and bear proof food locker. Camping is free by filling out a registration form.
Mainland Camping: The two state forest campgounds would be your best choice. RV camp sites are available. Beautiful Woodenfrog Campground, situated on Lake Kabetogama, offers a swimming beach, picnic grounds and a nature trail.
Resorts and Hotels: One good choice for a place to stay is Northern Lights Resort Outfitting. There are many other resorts and lodges in the area that cater to fishermen (and women) and families. These include Thunderbird Lodge, Arrowhead Lodge, Sandy Point Lodge and Nelson's Resort.
If you want to stay outside the park and do a day trip into the wilderness area there are hotels in International Falls:
Houseboats: a houseboat vacation can be a memorable adventure. There are four houseboat rental companies and any one of them can provide you with all you need for a houseboat vacation. Just one of these is Voyagaire Houseboats and Lodge.
Bear Head Lake State Park is close to Voyageurs Park and the Boundary Waters.
Bear Head Lake State Park is close to Voyageurs Park and the Boundary Waters.
If you are looking for solitude you can find it here. Just head out to the Kabetogama Peninsula
How to Get to Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs follows the Minnesota/Canadian border for 55 miles. There are no roads leading directly into the park. Most park visitors gain access through one of four resort areas on the four large lakes:
- Rainy Lake at the northwest corner close to International Falls
- Crane Lake at the southeast end of the park
- Kabetogama and Ash River in the center of the area.
Each of these access points has visitor centers and vendors who offer food, lodging, marinas, boat & canoe rentals, water taxis, fishing guides and advice about a trip into the area.
A Few More Tips and Ideas for Visiting Voyageurs
- Ash River is the easiest access point for paddlers through the north end of Lake Kabetogama at the Woodenfrog Campground.
- Boat on Interior Lakes Program: the park service has placed rowboats and canoes on nine lakes. Available on a first come basis.
- There are many great hiking trails in the park; expect to see wildlife.
- Winter recreation includes 110 miles of marked snowmobile trails and miles of groomed cross-country ski trails.
Some time spent in preparation for a trip like this is always a good idea. We suggest two resources:
- Paddling the Boundary Waters and Voyageurs National Park
- Voyageurs National Park Trails Illustrated Map
The National Park Service website has a wealth of information about Voyageurs.
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