Tent camping at Voyageurs National Park requires navigating both water and land access points. The park encompasses over 218,000 acres of interconnected waterways, with most campsites situated on islands or remote shorelines only accessible by boat. Winter temperatures can reach -30°F, while summer brings pleasant 70-80°F days with cool evenings, creating variable camping conditions throughout the season.
What to do
Portage to secluded inland lakes: Brown Lake offers exceptional camping for those willing to make the journey. "Nothing is better then 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," reports Jessica L. about Voyageurs National Park Backcountry Camping.
Hike the Vermilion Gorge Trail: This 1.5-mile trail near tent campsites features sheer granite cliffs and waterfalls. "The Vermilion Gorge Trailhead hike is a 1 & 1/2 mile trail that featues sheer granite cliffs and waterfalls-it was breathtaking due to the high water levels this year," notes TyAnn J. at Crane Lake Primitive Campgrounds.
Fish for unique species: Mukooda Lake offers exceptional fishing opportunities for species not found elsewhere. "There is a unique subspecies of lake trout found here that is found nowhere else in the world; also, the lake has a unique substrate and hydrology and is very pristine," explains Janet R. from Mukooda Lake Campground.
What campers like
Private island camping: Many tent campers appreciate the isolation of having an entire island to themselves. "Our site had incredible views of both the sunset and sunrise, and since we were on our own small island, it felt truly special," shares SwitchbackKids about their experience at Rainy Lake Frontcountry Camping.
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently spot diverse wildlife from their sites. "We saw bald eagles and otters, and found many blueberries along the nice hiking loop," reports rachel B. at Mukooda Lake Campground.
Boat-in access campsites: The effort required to reach these sites creates a sense of accomplishment. "Located about 9 miles from the Ash River Visitor Center put-in, this beautiful little 'front country' boat in site is a gem within Namakan Lake," writes Shari G. about Namakan Lake Frontcountry Camping, adding "We fell asleep to loons and owls calling in the night."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: The complex waterways require proper maps and 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," advises Shari G. about Johnson Bay N13.
Supply limitations: No stores exist near most campsites, so bring everything needed. "A dock, a fire ring, two bear proof lockers- what more could you want? We had a great week, despite some rough weather," notes Patty T. about Voyageurs National Park Backcountry Camping.
Water access requirements: Nearly all tent campsites near Voyageurs National Park require boat transportation. "Northern Minnesota camping is known for being one of the few remaining places in the US where you can enjoy the wilderness with absolutely no sounds of man-made machines and cities. Camping at Voyageurs National Park is one of those experiences. It's great BECAUSE all the camping is via boat," explains Eric K.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with protected landings: Look for campsites with sheltered docks for safer loading and unloading. "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," notes Shari G. about Namakan Lake Frontcountry Camping.
Consider Crane Lake for beginners: This area offers accessible tent camping options for families. "This is a great little free campsite right on Crane Lake before you go into the Boundary Waters Canoe area. The site has a fire ring with grate, picnic table, plenty of trees for hammocks, and a small tent pad that would be good for a three or four person tent," shares Amy G. about Indian Island Canoe Campsite.
Check tent pad sizes: Some sites accommodate limited tent space. "We stayed here with four family and a total party of 16. It has four camp pads, two picnic tables and one fire ring. Nice sand beach but a lot of leaches," reports Nicole S. about Brown Lake.
Tips from RVers
Base camp at Ash River: RV campers can use this location as a staging area for boat trips into the park. "Located just outside of Voyageurs National Park and a quick drive to the Ash River Visitor Center and boat launch, this campground is a perfect spot to get set-up for a long distance paddle/canoe trip," recommends Shari G. about Ash River Campground.
Expect basic amenities: RV sites offer minimal facilities. "Nothing fancy and no electricity available, but large sites with picnic tables, firepits, and clean pit toilets. Water is available via the well pump, but was very rusty at the beginning of the season," notes Shari G. about Ash River Campground.
Choose road-accessible alternatives: RVers needing full hookups should look to nearby towns. "Service was great, Arnold helped me book a spot for a family gathering nearby. The campsite was clean and hook ups worked great!" reports Sergio Z. about Arnold's Campground.
