Lake of the Woods Camping

Lake of the Woods, one of North America's most scenic and sprawling freshwater lakes, offers an unforgettable camping experience that combines natural beauty, world-class fishing, and boundless outdoor adventure. Spanning more than 1,700 square miles and located where Minnesota meets Manitoba and Ontario, this lake is famous for its 14,500+ islands, rugged shorelines, and remote wilderness. For campers seeking solitude, wildlife encounters, or water-based recreation, Lake of the Woods is a premier destination.

Why Camp at Lake of the Woods?

Camping on or near Lake of the Woods offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in nature. Unlike many other camping areas, Lake of the Woods provides:

• Remote island campsites with no crowds or traffic
• Pristine waters for swimming, canoeing, and boating
• Excellent fishing right from your campsite
• Diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, moose, black bears, and loons
• Stunning sunsets over pine-covered islands and vast horizons

Whether you're looking for a family-friendly campground or a remote backcountry island site accessible only by boat, this lake has a spot for you.

Types of Camping Available

1. Public Campgrounds (Minnesota Side)

The south shore of Lake of the Woods near Baudette, MN, features accessible and well-maintained campgrounds. These are ideal for car campers and families.

Zippel Bay State Park: Offers rustic and modern campsites with access to sandy beaches and hiking trails.

Beltrami Island State Forest: Includes dispersed campsites with primitive facilities, popular among hunters and off-road enthusiasts.

Franz Jevne State Park: A smaller, more secluded park along the Rainy River with limited campsites for tents and small trailers.

2. Backcountry & Island Camping (Ontario & Manitoba Waters)

For those with boats or outfitter support, the Canadian side offers hundreds of remote island campsites. These sites are usually located on Crown land and are free to use, though they require self-sufficiency and Leave No Trace principles.

• Bring everything you need (food, fuel, shelter)
• Accessible only by water
• Ideal for paddlers and experienced campers
• Often shared with moose, bears, and curious otters

3. Private Campgrounds & Resorts

Numerous private campgrounds and fishing resorts also offer camping options. These range from tent sites with basic amenities to RV parks with full hookups and lakeside cabins.

Popular spots include:

• Arnesen’s Rocky Point
• Cyrus Resort
• River Bend Resort
• Sunset Lodge (NW Angle)

Activities for Campers

Camping at Lake of the Woods isn't just about relaxing by a campfire. The lake offers a range of activities for all skill levels:

• Fishing: Walleye, northern pike, muskie, smallmouth bass, and perch
• Boating & Kayaking: Explore hidden bays and channels
• Swimming: Clean, refreshing waters with many sandy beaches
• Hiking & Wildlife Viewing: Trails through pine forests, wetlands, and along the shoreline
• Birdwatching: Especially for bald eagles, loons, and pelicans
• Photography & Stargazing: Dramatic skies, northern lights, and crystal-clear stars

Tips for a Great Camping Experience

1. Plan Ahead: Some areas require permits or cross-border coordination
2. Pack for All Weather: The lake can be windy and unpredictable, especially in spring and fall
3. Bring a GPS or Map: The vastness and complexity of the lake make it easy to get lost
4. Be Bear Aware: Store food properly, especially on islands
5. Respect the Environment: Many areas are undeveloped and ecologically sensitive

Final Thoughts

Camping at Lake of the Woods is not just a weekend getaway—it’s an immersion into one of the most unique and pristine lake ecosystems in North America. Whether you choose a rustic island, a forested state park, or a resort-based tent site, you’ll experience the wild beauty and timeless solitude that only Lake of the Woods can offer.