Voyageurs National Park Camping Permits
4.19562 reviewsVoyageurs National Park Headquarters, 360 Highway 11 East, International Falls, MN, 56649, USA
Voyageurs National Park Camping Permits
$10.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$32.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees vary based on site type and season. Peak season rates range from $14 to $60 per night. Non-peak season rates start at $10 per night. A $10 non-refundable reservation fee applies.
About this campground
Imagine arriving at your campsite by canoe or motorboat, the only sounds being the gentle lapping of water against the shore and the call of a distant loon. Voyageurs National Park transforms camping into an aquatic adventure, where every site is accessible only by watercraft, creating an intimate connection with Minnesota's legendary waterways. Each carefully designed campsite comes equipped with essential amenities including sturdy fire rings for evening gatherings, secure bear lockers to protect your provisions, level tent pads for comfortable sleeping, and weathered picnic tables perfect for lakeside meals under towering pines.
Voyageurs National Park features three primary types of camping experiences: primitive, backcountry, and frontcountry. Primitive campsites are accessible by hiking only, backcountry sites are remote and often boat-accessible, and frontcountry sites are boat-in locations equipped with more amenities.
Historical SignificanceThese waters tell stories stretching back centuries, where the rhythmic splash of paddles once marked the passage of French-Canadian voyageurs in the 1700s, their birchbark canoes laden with furs and trade goods. Long before European explorers arrived, the Ojibwe people navigated these same interconnected waterways, their deep knowledge of the land evident in ancient portage routes and seasonal camps. Today's paddlers follow in the wake of these historical travelers, experiencing the same pristine wilderness that has captivated adventurers for generations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer unfolds like a perfect northwoods dream, with temperatures hovering comfortably in the 70s, ideal for swimming, paddling, and exploring hidden coves. As autumn arrives, the boreal forest erupts in brilliant golds and crimsons, creating stunning reflections on mirror-like waters. Winter transforms this aquatic paradise into a snow-covered wonderland, where 55 to 70 inches of pristine powder blanket the frozen lakes, turning waterways into highways for snowmobiles and cross-country skiers brave enough to embrace the frigid beauty.
ElevationNestled in Minnesota's iconic low-lying lake country, the park's gentle topography creates an accessible wilderness experience where the horizon stretches endlessly across shimmering waters. This ancient landscape, sculpted by glaciers into a maze of waterways and islands, offers paddlers of all skill levels the chance to explore without challenging climbs or steep portages.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where dense boreal forests of spruce, fir, and pine create a verdant backdrop for crystal-clear lakes that stretch to the horizon. Rocky islands dot the waterscape like scattered gems, each harboring its own ecosystem of moss-covered stones and wind-shaped trees. Wildlife thrives in this protected wilderness – white-tailed deer browse along shorelines at dawn, wolf packs leave their tracks on sandy beaches, and the iconic silhouette of bald eagles soars overhead, their piercing calls echoing across the water. Every paddle stroke reveals new vistas of untouched wilderness beauty.
Geological RegionSpanning an impressive 218,054 acres across northern Minnesota's legendary lake country, this water-dominated landscape showcases nature's artistry through interconnected waterways that weave between ancient bedrock and emerald forests. The park's unique geology tells the story of continental glaciers that carved deep channels and left behind a labyrinth of lakes, creating a paddler's paradise where rugged shorelines meet pristine boreal forests. This remarkable ecosystem represents one of North America's most intact water-based wilderness areas, where the boundary between land and water blurs into a seamless tapestry of natural beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCertain sites are designated as accessible, and facilities like docks and paths at some campsites have been noted as accommodating. Specific sites include features such as gravel paths and dock lifts for accessibility.
Sites SizeCampsites vary by type. Frontcountry sites typically include multiple tent pads, while backcountry and primitive sites have smaller capacities.
Sites PrivacyBackcountry and primitive campsites offer high levels of privacy due to their remote locations. Frontcountry campsites are less secluded but still provide some privacy due to natural barriers like trees.
Total Campsites147 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites like Bald Rock offer excellent stargazing opportunities. Others with docks provide easier watercraft landing.
Best CampsitesPopular sites include Bald Rock, Pine Point, and Day Marker 23, noted for scenic views and accessibility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Frontcountry: 3:00 PM, Backcountry: 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Frontcountry: 12:00 PM, Backcountry: 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limits vary by site type. Group sites allow up to 30 guests.
Groups
Group camping is available, with specific sites accommodating up to 30 people. Details on vehicle limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spread across lake islands and mainland trailheads. Each has its own amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 9 to October 15 (peak season). Non-peak season runs from October 16 to May 7.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on recreation.gov or through the call center at (877) 444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve sites are not explicitly mentioned; reservations are highly recommended due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made more than 3 days before arrival incur a $10 fee; less than 3 days forfeits the first night’s fee. No refunds after permit printing.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Voyageurs National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities tailored for water-based recreation, including boating, canoeing, hiking, and fishing. Seasonal activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also popular during winter months.
Hiking
There are 52 miles of hiking trails in the park, ranging from short trails at visitor centers to multi-mile backcountry routes. The Kab-Ash Trail provides access to primitive campsites.Fishing
Fishing in the park is highly regarded, with opportunities to catch species like walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. Some campsites are near productive fishing areas.Swimming
Swimming is possible in the park's lakes, but designated swimming areas are not specified. Some campsites feature sandy beaches suitable for swimming.Boating
Boating is a central activity at Voyageurs National Park, with options including motorized boats, canoes, kayaks, and houseboats. Canoes are provided at specific backcountry campsites.Wildlife viewing
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including eagles, loons, beavers, and occasionally wolves and moose. Wildlife viewing is a common highlight for visitors.Beach activities
Some campsites have sandy beaches suitable for activities like sunbathing and swimming.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers interpretive programs and historic tours, including visits to Kettle Falls Hotel and Ellsworth Rock Gardens. Programs are seasonal, and reservations are recommended.Winter Activities
Winter recreation includes snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing.Water Sports
Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are common water sports at the park.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires restricted to metal fire rings; firewood must be DNR-approved.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife interactions (bears, wolves), water navigation risks, and dense ticks/mosquito populations during summer.
Active alertsHigh water levels noted during spring; visitors should check alerts before arrival.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Rainy Lake Visitor Center (year-round support), Falls International Airport in International Falls, MN (medical transport), local hospitals within International Falls.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9 to October 15 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are provided at main boat landings. Campers must pack out all waste from individual campsites.
Proximity to water featuresMost campsites are located on or near lakes (Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, Sandpoint).
Common complaintsComplaints include generator noise, proximity issues, campsite cleanliness, and inadequate website usability.
Hostnull
Campground Map
Voyageurs National Park Headquarters, 360 Highway 11 East, International Falls, MN, 56649, USA
Driving directionsVoyageurs National Park is approximately 5 hours north of Minneapolis-St. Paul on I-35 and Hwy 53, 3 hours north of Duluth on Hwy 53, and 4 hours south from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Falls International Airport is located in International Falls, Minnesota, offering taxi service and rental cars. Public transportation is unavailable.
Accessible by major highways I-35 and Hwy 53, but no public transportation options are available. Seasonal closures may apply to water-based sites.Nearby places
International Falls (0 miles), Duluth (approx. 145 miles, 3 hours), Minneapolis-St. Paul (approx. 300 miles, 5 hours), Winnipeg (approx. 200 miles, 4 hours)
Nearby supplies
Available in International Falls
grocery stores, fuel stations, camping supplies, and restaurants are accessible in the town.
Camper Reviews
4.2
562 reviews
Voyageurs National Park Camping Permits is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's natural beauty, well-maintained campsites, and opportunities for solitude. The reservation system receives mixed feedback, with some praising its organization and others criticizing its complexity. Issues like campsite cleanliness and overbooking have been noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 562 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the park's pristine environment, excellent fishing opportunities, and well-equipped campsites. Visitors also appreciate the park's diversity of wildlife and the unique...
Based on 562 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints often focus on the reservation system, including website difficulties and issues with double bookings. Some users also report challenges with high winds, campsite overgrowth, and lack of...
Based on 562 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing bug spray, extra ropes for securing boats, and marine band radios for communication. Packing all essentials, including water, is advised due to limited availability on-site.
Based on 562 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the busiest season and offers the best weather for outdoor activities. Fall provides fewer crowds and vibrant foliage but brings cooler temperatures. Winter is ideal for snow-based...
Based on 562 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campsites in Voyageurs are deluxe." "The park offers pristine wilderness and solitude." "The reservation system can be frustrating but ensures site availability."
Based on 562 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Specific campsites like Round Bear Island and Sheen Point are frequently praised for their views and amenities. Others, like Blueberry Ridge, receive criticism due to overgrowth and difficult access.
Based on 562 reviewsAccessibility Features
Users with accessibility needs highlight certain campsites with gravel paths and accessible docks as favorable. However, some note that backcountry sites may be challenging to access.
Based on 562 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not explicitly detailed in the reviews, but some users note the importance of keeping pets under control due to wildlife.
Based on 562 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025