Glamping accommodations near Voyageurs National Park range from primitive to luxury, with many sites positioned on the shores of lakes that connect to the park's waterways. Located in northern Minnesota along the Canadian border, Voyageurs features over 500 islands and 218,000 acres of water-based wilderness. Sites typically open from late May through early September when temperatures range from 45°F at night to 80°F during peak summer days.
What to do
Fishing walleye: Echo Lake offers excellent walleye fishing opportunities in a secluded setting. According to Kayla A., "The stars are incredibly bright at night. Plenty of hiking trails and great for fishing walleye" at Echo Lake.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds provide access to local wildlife sanctuaries. "We also enjoyed the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary. It's only 15 miles away. A wonderful place to view the bears! Don't miss it!" shares charlie S. from Aspen Resort & Campground.
Portaging: The boundary waters system requires planning but rewards with solitude. "We spent 4 nights paddling and portaging and it was absolutely incredible. The backcountry sites are beautiful, just make sure you have a very detailed map of where you are going/staying because the area is pretty desolate," advises Lucas M. who explored primitive sites.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The campgrounds often feature well-designed sites with adequate separation. At Echo Lake, Melissa P. notes, "The campsites are large and spaced out well. The outhouses are clean with minimal smell. The lake is very quiet and beautiful. Perfect place to get away and soak in the beauty."
Lake access: Many luxury tent camping options near Voyageurs National Park feature direct lake access. "We come up to pick fresh blueberries, and spend time on the lake. Many memories have been made at this camp ground," says Jenna E. about her family's experiences at Echo Lake.
Affordability: Despite the remote setting, several glamping options remain reasonably priced. Bradley H. found Lofgren Memorial Park to be "a very nice park and well run by Roger!! I would definitely give it five stars if it had sewer at the sites. Highly recommend for the price and the small town feel!!"
What you should know
Navigation challenges: The waterways system requires proper maps and planning. TyAnn J. advises those staying at Crane Lake Primitive Campgrounds, "Don't forget to bring along a detailed map as there are hundreds of islands and turns on this beautiful lake."
Border awareness: Some waterways cross international boundaries. "We camped on the United States side of Crane Lake. Once again you need to be aware of the United States/Canadian borders while in the water," notes TyAnn J.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds may have unexpected noise sources. At Echo Lake, rachel B. mentions, "Would recommend going to a site further from the sawmill, it can be quite loud in the AM. But honestly? Excellent alarm for a summer sunrise."
Tips for camping with families
Free water activities: Many resorts and glamping sites offer complimentary water equipment. One visitor at Aspen Resort & Campground shares, "Paddle boat and kayaks are free for guests as well as many other amenities and activities the children will enjoy."
Swimming options: Sites with pools provide alternatives when lake conditions aren't ideal. "We spent a lot of time in the pool and hot tub and enjoyed the nightly campfire," mentions charlie S., adding that their grandchildren particularly enjoyed these amenities.
Trail safety: Some trails require caution with children. When hiking Vermilion Gorge Trailhead near Crane Lake, TyAnn J. advises visitors to "be very cautious if you bring small children" due to "sheer granite cliffs and waterfalls."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RVers should note varying levels of services at different glamping locations. At Pine Acres Resort and Campground, Mariajesserene A. explains, "There are portable potty's around the campsite, out houses but they also have full functioning bathrooms and showers."
Dump station access: Not all parks have on-site dump stations. Bradley H. notes about Lofgren Memorial Park, "50 amp electric and water with no sewer. There is a dump station in town."
Tent pad quality: For those bringing tents alongside RVs, site quality varies. Kara K. describes her Echo Lake experience: "We ended up picking site #10. It was a good site. A slight incline down from the road but a nice tent pad and a very roomy site."
