Tent camping near International Falls centers primarily around water access sites in Voyageurs National Park's network of lakes. The region sits at the border between Minnesota and Ontario, with elevations ranging from 1,126 to 1,400 feet and a continental climate that brings warm summers and very cold winters. Many campsites remain accessible only from May through October, with mosquitoes and biting insects most prevalent during June and July.
What to do
Hiking the Vermilion Gorge Trail: Located near the primitive campgrounds at Crane Lake, this 1.5-mile trail features granite cliffs and seasonal waterfalls. "The Vermilion Gorge Trailhead hike is a 1 & 1/2 mile trail that features sheer granite cliffs and waterfalls-it was breathtaking due to the high water levels this year," notes a visitor to Crane Lake Primitive Campgrounds.
Night sky observation: The remote location provides excellent opportunities for stargazing and witnessing celestial events. One camper at Voyageurs National Park Backcountry Camping describes watching "the full moon rise over the lake just after sunset – amazingly gorgeous and romantic while enjoying a campfire."
Wildlife listening: The area offers distinctive night sounds unlike urban environments. Campers report unique auditory experiences, with one noting, "We fell asleep to loons and owls calling in the night" at Johnson Bay in Kabetogama Lake.
What campers like
Private island experiences: Many campers value the seclusion of having an entire island to themselves. A camper at Voyageurs National Park Backcountry Camping describes it as "5 star camp site! On our own large island with about 2 other campsites. Campsites only accessible by boat or canoe. Amazing place!"
Protected boat landing areas: Sheltered docking spots make water access camping more manageable. At Johnson Bay N13, a reviewer appreciated that the "Kayak/canoe landing area is protected from the main channel/wind, can accommodate multiple boats with ease, and is just a short 'schlep' up the stairs to the campsite."
Bear-proof storage: The infrastructure to keep food secure from wildlife provides peace of mind. "A dock, a fire ring, two bear proof lockers- what more could you want? We had a great week, despite some rough weather," notes a visitor to Brown Lake.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: The complex network of islands and waterways requires proper maps for safe travel. A camper at Namakan Lake Frontcountry Camping advises: "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."
Water quality concerns: Potable water sources can be inconsistent at established campgrounds. At Ash River campground, one visitor observed, "Water is available via the well pump, but was very rusty at the beginning of the season. Could improve with time, but we chose not to drink it -- would suggest bringing your own just in case."
Insect preparation: Biting insects can be intense during peak summer months. A visitor to Crane Lake noted, "Neither Mosquitoes nor Gnats nor Noseeums kept us away from our Crane Lake Adventure!!"
Tips for camping with families
Consider shoulder seasons: Early summer or fall offers fewer crowds and insects. At Ash River campground, a camper noted, "Can be hot, muggy, and buggy in the summer months; spring and fall can be chilly, but gorgeous and uncrowded."
Watch children near water features: Natural gorges and waterfalls require supervision. At Crane Lake, a reviewer cautions about the Vermilion Gorge trail: "be very cautious if you bring small children."
Utilize tent pads for easier setup: Designated tent sites provide better organization for family camping. Some sites have multiple tent pads to accommodate larger groups, with one visitor mentioning "four camp pads, two picnic tables and one fire ring" at their island site.
Tips from RVers
Choose appropriate campgrounds: Despite some marketing, not all sites work well for tents. A visitor to Arnold's Campground warns: "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."
Check bathroom conditions: Facilities may not meet expectations at some locations. A recent visitor to Arnold's Campground reported, "The bathrooms were dingy and ill stocked, the showers were so moldy and stinky and clearly hadn't been cleaned in ages."
Verify campground name: Some properties operate under multiple identities. A camper noted confusion when "we checked in online and it was called Voyageurs campground and RV park yet the address took us to Arnold's and they are the same place."
