Discover Lake Of The Woods County

Lake Of The Woods County combines the vastness of Lake of the Woods with unique nature experiences and a multifaceted regional history. Between sandy beaches, waterways, fishing spots, and historic sites, you can shape your trip entirely around your interests. For families who want to combine active days with cultural discoveries, the region offers a range of options for planning their vacation.

Beaches, Trails, and Water Experiences

Zippel Bay State Park is located in Lake of the Woods County, directly on Lake of the Woods. With more than two miles of sandy beach, the park is a distinctive destination on the water. The park also has a concrete boat ramp, providing access for fishing and enjoying the views. If you would rather experience the lake on a loop trail, you can choose the Hiking Club Trail. The 1.5-mile trail follows a loop along the shore of Lake of the Woods.

Zippel Bay can also be explored from the water. From the park office, you can rent a canoe and take a self-guided water tour around Zippel Bay. This gives you the flexibility to choose between a walk, time at the beach, and a tour on the water when planning your day. Garden Island State Recreation Area adds another option with a sandy beach for swimming. Important for planning: The area is intended exclusively for day use.

Regional History at Several Sites

The Lake of the Woods County Museum takes you through the history of the region – from geology and natural history to early population groups, the fur trade, and settlement, as well as the development of local industries and communities. In the adjacent annex, early wagons, hay loaders, binders, and tractors illustrate the history of agriculture. You will also find materials there on the Great Forest Fire of 1910, the court-ordered drainage campaign, and the Federal Resettlement programs.

One of the notable historic sites is Fort St. Charles. It was founded in the summer of 1732 by the Canadian explorer and fur trader Sieur de La Verendrye and is located in the Northwest Angle at Angle Inlet on Lake of the Woods in Minnesota. The Northwest Angle is the northernmost point within the contiguous United States. Another historic site is Norris Camp, a CCC work camp built in 1935 for employees of the Beltrami Island Resettlement Project.

In Baudette stands the Baudette Depot, built by the Canadian National Railways in 1923 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in August 2005. It was once an important part of the regional transportation system, when all traffic into or out of the area traveled by river or rail. A visit therefore fits well into a trip that gives equal importance to nature and the development of the region.

Fishing and Seasonal Travel Ideas

Lake of the Woods is also an important destination for fishing experiences. Fishing opportunities include walleye, sauger, yellow perch, and northern pike. The available options change throughout the year: During the ice-fishing season, fishing is possible from early December through the end of March. Fishing on the Rainy River takes place in spring and fall, while summer fishing is ideal on the lake. This information can help you choose your travel period based on the experience you want.

The Right Accommodation for Your Plans

When searching for a vacation rental or vacation home in Lake Of The Woods County, it is worth first deciding what you want your days to focus on. If beaches and water are your priority, Zippel Bay and Garden Island offer specific nature experiences. If you are more interested in history, the museum, Fort St. Charles, Norris Camp, and the Baudette Depot are natural themes to include in your travel plans.

Further Guidance

You can find additional destinations for planning your trip in Stearns County, Chippewa County, Douglas County, Ramsey, Chisago County, Olmsted, and Freeborn County.

For the overarching travel overview: Minnesota.