The International Falls area of northern Minnesota borders Canada and sits at an elevation of 1,126 feet, with temperatures that can dip below freezing from October through April. Navigation through this region's interconnected waterways requires careful planning, as the numerous islands and narrow passages can create challenging conditions for boaters unfamiliar with the area. Camping options range from primitive sites to RV-friendly resorts throughout the Rainy Lake and Kabetogama areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Voyageurs National Park Backcountry Camping provides excellent fishing opportunities across its four large lakes. As one visitor noted, "Nothing is better than boating out to a campsite miles away! This was the third time being to voyageurs and nothing comes close to the camping here. If you can handle roughing it and have a boat this is the place to visit."
Boat exploration: Namakan Lake Frontcountry Camping offers water-based adventures with sites only accessible by boat. "Located about 7 miles from the Ash River Visitor Center put-in, this beautiful little 'front country' boat in site is a gem within Namakan Lake," explains one camper who advises bringing detailed navigation charts.
Night sky viewing: The Pines of Kabetogama Resort offers prime dark sky viewing opportunities. "This is a night sky park, so they ask you to turn off your outside lights after quiet hours. Everyone we camped by did this & it was appreciated," reports one camper who also noted daily bald eagle sightings.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Woodenfrog Campground receives high marks for its spacious, secluded sites. One visitor explained, "The campsite was tucked in the trees with all the things you expect. Fire ring, picnic table, etc, and many of the sites (this one too) were so tucked in the trees it was hard to see neighbors. Lots of space, not too close together!"
Waterfront access: Many campers appreciate the direct lake access at several campgrounds. A reviewer at Rainy Lake Frontcountry Camping shared, "The site we had in the Rainy Lake area, site #R67, was amazing. It wasn't too tough to get out there in our inflatable kayak from the mainland (maybe an hour or so?) and we were able to navigate the islands just fine."
Convenience to Voyageurs National Park: Boondocks campground serves as a strategic base for park exploration. "International Falls is approx 20 minutes away, with shopping, laundromat and the Canadian Border. Voyageurs NP, Rainy Lake Visitor Center is approx 30 min. This is now our go to campground when we visit Voyageurs NP," explained one satisfied visitor.
What you should know
Payment systems vary: Woodenfrog Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a simple payment system. A camper explained, "All sites are offered on a first come first served basis and the entrance has envelopes to pay by check or you can pay online at your arrival. Sites that are occupied will have a small white card clipped to the site number marker sign."
Navigation challenges: Water access in Voyageurs requires careful planning. "Get a detailed chart before attempting to navigate the lake, as the twists and turns and hundreds of islands can be quite confusing without one," advised a visitor to Voyageurs National Park Backcountry Camping.
Limited facilities: Many of the best places to camp near International Falls, Minnesota offer primitive experiences. At Lofgren Memorial Park, visitors noted, "50 amp electric and water with no sewer. There is a dump station in town. Sites are $20.00 per night. $100.00 for seven nights and $300.00 for a month."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: When choosing campgrounds in the International Falls region, consider site layout. At Woodenfrog Campground, "There's 61 primitive sites tucked into the woods. 2 accessible. The road thru the campground is gravelly dirt. There's a lakeview at sites 2/3. Possibly at 34/36, but I didn't note that."
Bring supplies: Facilities vary widely across camping options, requiring proper preparation. One camper at Voyageurs National Park Backcountry Camping shared this advice: "A dock, a fire ring, two bear proof lockers- what more could you want? We had a great week, despite some rough weather (or maybe that added to the experience)."
Consider glamping: For families seeking more comfort, cabin options exist at The Pines of Kabetogama Resort. "Even though we were not staying in the luxury cabins, the staff was kind enough to allow us to peek inside and they are immaculate. The decor is iconic, and the finishing touches are high quality. They aren't like the other ramshackle bunkhouses with spring bed frames we've stayed at in the past."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Arnold's Campground may not accommodate all camping styles equally. One visitor warned, "Despite advertising sites as 'tent site' this campground, it is definitely not suitable for tents. We booked a tent site that was in a block of other tent sites. When we arrived, we saw a HUGE RV in the site next to ours that took up our space."
Road conditions: The Pines of Kabetogama Resort offers full hookups but has some access challenges. "About the worst thing I could say about this campground is the road leading up to the cliff was pretty rough. Maybe repave? A couple more toilets would be nice too," mentioned one RVer who otherwise enjoyed their stay.
Seasonal considerations: For RVers planning trips to the best camping near International Falls, know that most campgrounds operate seasonally. At Boondocks, visitors appreciate the extended shoulder season availability, with one camper noting, "We cold called them last minute in late April, most of the other campgrounds were not open for the season, but they welcomed us."
