Canoe Camping in Minnesota

Almost 12,000 lakes await canoe campers in Minnesota.

Canoe camping is an adventurous way to explore Minnesota. Thousands of miles of waterways and myriad public lakes provide numerous paddling opportunities, and boat-accessible campgrounds allow trips as simple as an easy overnight with the family to serious expeditions lasting weeks. Attention to weather and a little planning will increase the comfort and safety of your journey. A canoe and basic camping gear are all you need to start enjoying Minnesota's 11,842 lakes.

Features

More than 3,000 of the state's lakes are open to the public, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and 12 state parks offer camping specifically designed for canoeists. You can spend the night in several private campsites along the state's 4,257 miles of canoeing routes. Joining a club is one way to get local information, pick a route or join an organized trip.

Time Frame

While state canoe campsites are open year round, most paddlers wait until the water warms in late spring to venture out. In midsummer, Minnesota water temperature allows comfortable swimming to complement your canoeing. Autumn brings blasts of early winter storms, and careful attention to weather is required.

Gear

Canoes hold plenty of camping gear.

You don't need much to start canoe camping in Minnesota. State law requires a life jacket for each boater, and children under the age of 10 must always wear theirs. Bring seat cushions, hats and sunglasses for maximum comfort on long paddles. The ability to haul heavy camping gear by boat is one advantage to camping from a canoe. Dry bags or plastic bags are recommended to keep sleeping bags, clothing and food dry.

As of 2010, Minnesota charges a $24 registration fee on canoes unless they're in the state for fewer than 90 days.

Considerations

Choose your campsite carefully. Shelter in the leeward, or downwind, side of an island campground if the weather is stormy. In calm weather, a campsite with the breeze blowing off the water can reduce the number of Minnesota mosquitoes. Know your physical abilities and take a few short overnight paddles to developed Minnesota state park campsites before going on that weeklong canoe camping expedition.

Safety

Prepare for Minnesota's cold water when canoe camping.

Drowning and hypothermia are among the dangers of canoe camping. Minnesota waters remain chilly into June. Stabilize your canoe by tying camping gear as low as possible, with the heaviest gear at the bottom. Bring a cell phone in a waterproof case, as well as a whistle, flashlight and fire starter. Blowing in with little warning, cold storms can hit even in the summer. Bring a rain shell and quick-drying wool or fleece layers to insulate you. Watch the weather, travel in groups and always leave a float plan with someone so rescuers know where to look for you if you don't return on schedule.

References

• Department of Natural Resources: Home Page
• Canoe-Kayak: Home Page