Things To Know Before Planning Your Trip
No Overnight Dock Slips
While overnight dock slips are not available at our campground, several free public boat launch sites are conveniently located within one mile. These public access points allow you to launch and pull your boat each day with ease—making day trips into Voyageurs National Park totally doable.
Public Boat Launch Access Points:
- Bayside Drive Public Access
- Handbergs Road Public Access
Handbergs Public Access
Day-Use Sites in Voyageurs National Park
One of the most magical parts of visiting Voyageurs is that it’s only accessible by boat—yep, really. That means you’ll need to bring your own boat, rent one locally, or book a guided boat tour to explore the park.
Once you’re out on the water, you’ll find a variety of free day-use areas, many of which include:
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Large sandy beaches
These are perfect for a lunch spot, swimming, or just soaking up the pristine lake views.
Scenic Picnic Spots You Can Reach by Car
Prefer to stay on land? No worries. There are also several beautiful, drivable picnic spots in the Crane Lake area:
Vermilion Falls – A short trail leads to an impressive waterfall and a peaceful picnic area.
Crane Lake Statue – A local landmark worth stopping by.
Vermilion Gorge Hiking Trail – A 3 mile round trip hike to a beautiful gorge where the Vermilion River meets Crane Lake.
Don’t Want to Drive the Boat? Hire a Guide
If you’re not totally comfortable navigating the waters of Voyageurs (there’s a lot of water out there!), consider hiring a local guide service. Several operate out of Crane Lake and offer everything from fishing to customized day trips—great for families, photographers, and first-time visitors alike.
Explore Hidden Gems by ATV
For those with an adventurous spirit, hop on an ATV and discover secluded picnic spots like the new steel bridge on Kabustasa Road. It’s a quieter, lesser-known place to unwind in nature—perfect for anyone looking to escape the crowds.
Helpful Resources
Outdoor Activities in Crane Lake, MN
Explore fishing, hiking, boating, and more outdoor fun around the area. https://www.visitcranelake.com/- Crane Lake Visitor Center – Voyageurs National Park
Learn about the new on-site visitor center and what you can discover there. https://www.voyageurs.org/crane-lake