Voyageurs National Park spans over 218,000 acres in northern Minnesota, with most of its area covered by interconnected waterways. Campers visiting Voyageurs encounter temperatures ranging from summer highs in the mid-70s to winter lows well below freezing. The park contains over 500 islands and 655 miles of shoreline, making watercraft essential for accessing many camping areas and attractions.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Kabetogama: Fishing, swimming and boating are primary activities. "We kayaked to Bittersweet Island and got out to stretch in a cove. Took a dip and relaxed... lake Kabetogama is big with many islands," notes a visitor at Arrowhead Lodge.
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts diverse northern wildlife. "There are loons (love the sound they make) and White Pelican's on the lake. Some of the white pelicans had big bumps on their beak which we found out they have that bump till they mate," explains a camper from Arrowhead Lodge.
Night sky observation: Voyageurs is certified as a Dark Sky park. "The view of the sky at night was amazing. We didn't know this until we arrived and walked over to the Lake Kabetogama Voyageurs National Park Visitors Center that the park is Dark Sky Certified," shares a guest from The Pines of Kabetogama Resort.
Local exploration: The surrounding area offers additional attractions. "We Like to explore so we check out other campgrounds, visitors centers if open and really enjoyed eating at the Rocky Ledge (great Pizza and Patty Melt). International falls is the biggest town it's about a half hour or so away," reports a camper from Arrowhead Lodge.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many RV parks near Voyageurs National Park provide good separation between camping spots. "We were pleasantly surprised at just how spread-out the sites were. There isn't a bad site in the entire resort," notes a visitor at The Pines of Kabetogama Resort.
Well-maintained facilities: "The campground is clean. The owners are incredibly friendly and accommodating. We were greeted happily when we arrived and directed to our spot which was a spacious, level gravel pad with a well maintained picnic table and fire ring," shares a guest from Headquarters RV Park.
Quality restrooms: "Absolutely spotless with granite countertops and glass bowl sinks!?! We didn't expect to walk into a luxury bathroom experience at an RV resort," explains a camper about The Pines of Kabetogama facilities.
Convenient access: "This is a fantastic place to stay if visiting Voyageurs National Park and the other surrounding attractions, such as Vermillion Falls," reports a visitor to Headquarters RV Park.
What you should know
Tent vs. RV compatibility: Not all campgrounds accommodate all camping types equally. "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," warns a camper from Arnold's Campground.
Bathroom facilities vary: "There was no public potable water source, the bathrooms were dingy and ill stocked, the showers were so moldy and stinky and clearly hadn't been cleaned in ages," notes one visitor to Arnold's Campground.
Price considerations: "Pricey @$95/night but great location for Voyageurs NP. Staff very helpful. Truly a scenic & peaceful area. Hire a guide to boat you around, it's worth it," advises a guest at The Pines of Kabetogama Resort.
Off-season limitations: Many RV parks near Voyageurs National Park operate seasonally, typically from May to October. "We cold called them last minute in late April, most of the other campgrounds were not open for the season," shares a visitor to Boondocks.
Tips for camping with families
Book guided boat tours: Water access is essential for experiencing the park. "Hire a guide to boat you around, it's worth it," recommends a visitor to The Pines of Kabetogama Resort.
Look for sites with playgrounds: "There is a small playground and a community fire pit," notes a camper from Arrowhead Lodge about the family-friendly amenities.
Check for water safety issues: "There are some leeches in the water so check you feet if your walking around in it," warns a visitor to Arrowhead Lodge.
Consider cabins for mixed groups: "The cabins 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," explains a camper from The Pines of Kabetogama Resort.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions vary: "The roads leading to most campgrounds around the park are in good condition and wide enough for big rigs," though some campgrounds note specific challenges. "The road leading up to the cliff was pretty rough," warns a camper about The Pines of Kabetogama.
Consider site layout carefully: "If your intent is spend all day on the lake boating, fishing and swimming - then return to your camper to eat and spend time with your family, then this place is great. If you desire any other activities that are not lake related (local attractions, breweries, dog parks, hikes) then this place feels a little isolated," advises a visitor to The Pines of Kabetogama Resort.
Reserve early for lakeside spots: "If you don't get the preferred lake view spots, staying on the Cliffside is not worth it. While you can see the lake (through other spots) there are very few trees and some of the fire pits are right on the road," suggests a camper from The Pines of Kabetogama Resort.
Check campground amenities before arrival: "Brand new, well designed RV Campground next to Boondocks Bar & Grill. They have 21 spaces, 50/30 amp electric only sites. Sites 1-14 are good for big rigs," notes a visitor to Kab-Ash Trail Dispersed Campsites.
