South Island S17 Campsite

Welcome, fellow Minnesotans, to an insider's look at one of our state's hidden gems for outdoor enthusiasts: the South Island S17 Campsite. Nestled within the breathtaking beauty of Voyageurs National Park, near the charming community of Crane Lake, this campsite offers a unique and unforgettable wilderness experience that's easily accessible for those seeking an escape from the everyday.

For many in Minnesota, the call of the wild is a familiar tune, and South Island S17 answers with a symphony of natural splendor. Unlike drive-in campgrounds, this particular site provides an authentic boat-in adventure, immersing you in the pristine waterways and lush forests that define our northern landscape. Whether you're a seasoned paddler, an avid angler, or simply someone yearning for tranquility under a canopy of stars, South Island S17 provides the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories. This overview aims to equip you with all the essential details about this remarkable destination, helping you plan your next great Minnesota adventure.

The South Island S17 Campsite is strategically located in Voyageurs National Park, a crown jewel of Minnesota's natural heritage. Its precise address is Crane Lake, MN 55725, USA. However, it's crucial to understand that this is not a drive-up campsite. South Island S17 is exclusively a "boat-in" site, meaning it is only accessible by watercraft. This characteristic is precisely what contributes to its secluded and immersive wilderness appeal, distinguishing it from more conventional camping areas.

To reach South Island S17, visitors typically launch their boats from one of the visitor centers or public access points around Crane Lake, which serves as a gateway to Voyageurs National Park. The campsite itself is situated on Sand Point Lake, approximately 12 miles from the Crane Lake boat launch. The journey by boat is part of the adventure, offering stunning scenic views of the park's interconnected lakes and islands. It’s an opportunity to spot local wildlife, from eagles soaring overhead to deer along the shoreline. While the boat access might require a bit more planning than a drive-in site, it rewards campers with an unparalleled sense of solitude and connection to nature that is increasingly rare to find. For those without their own watercraft, local outfitters and water taxi services in the Crane Lake area can provide transportation, making this unique experience accessible to a broader range of outdoor enthusiasts.

• Permitted Equipment: South Island S17 is designed for tent camping and allows for boat mooring. It is not equipped for RVs or other vehicle-based camping setups.
• Max Number of People: The campsite is designated as a "small campsite," with a maximum capacity of 9 people. This ensures a more intimate and less crowded experience.
• Tent Pads: The site provides two designated tent pads, offering clear and level spaces for setting up tents.
• Food Lockers: To ensure bear safety and proper food storage in this wilderness area, the campsite is equipped with two bear-proof food lockers.
• Picnic Table: A picnic table is provided for convenient meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Fire Ring: A designated fire ring is available for campfires, allowing visitors to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of an open flame (always check for fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Outdoor Privy: For sanitation, an outdoor privy (vault toilet) is available at the campsite.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at South Island S17, making it a great option for those who want to bring their furry companions on their camping adventure.
• Check-in/Check-out: Check-in time is 3:00 PM, and visitors must vacate the campsite by 12 noon on their day of departure.

• Authentic Boat-In Wilderness Experience: This is arguably the most significant highlight. South Island S17 provides a true escape into the Minnesota wilderness, accessible only by water, fostering a deep sense of seclusion and adventure.
• Voyageurs National Park Immersion: Being located within Voyageurs National Park means direct access to its vast network of interconnected lakes and pristine natural environment, renowned for its fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Rock Access: The campsite features rock access from the water, characteristic of many island campsites in the park, offering a unique landing experience for boats.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Sand Point Lake, where S17 is located, is part of a world-class fishing destination. Anglers can target walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and more, right from the vicinity of their campsite.
• Stargazing Potential: With minimal light pollution, the night skies over Voyageurs National Park are often spectacular, offering incredible opportunities for stargazing and even viewing the Northern Lights during favorable conditions.
• Wildlife Viewing: The remote setting increases the chances of encountering native Minnesota wildlife, including deer, moose, various bird species (including bald eagles), and even black bears (hence the importance of food lockers).
• Peace and Quiet: The boat-in nature of the campsite inherently limits the number of visitors, ensuring a more peaceful and tranquil camping experience away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded areas.

Address: South Island S17 Campsite, Crane Lake, MN 55725, USA

As a remote, boat-in campsite within a national park, there isn't a direct phone number for the South Island S17 Campsite itself. Reservations for all campsites within Voyageurs National Park, including South Island S17, are typically made through the Recreation.gov website or by contacting Voyageurs National Park directly.

For general inquiries about Voyageurs National Park, camping permits, or assistance with reservations, you can typically reach the park's main visitor centers. While phone numbers for specific visitor centers may vary, a good starting point would be the main park information line or their website. It is always recommended to check the official National Park Service website for Voyageurs National Park for the most up-to-date contact information, operating hours, and reservation details.

For Minnesotans, the South Island S17 Campsite in Voyageurs National Park is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an invitation to reconnect with the very essence of our state's natural beauty. We cherish our lakes, our forests, and the quiet solitude that comes with truly immersing ourselves in the outdoors, and S17 delivers on all fronts.

This boat-in campsite embodies the adventurous spirit that many Minnesotans possess. It encourages exploration, whether it's navigating the intricate waterways by canoe or motorboat, casting a line for a trophy walleye, or simply finding a quiet spot to read a book amidst the whispers of the pines. The fact that it's a boat-in site adds an element of exclusivity and adventure, ensuring a less crowded experience than many road-accessible campgrounds. This means more pristine surroundings, enhanced wildlife viewing opportunities, and a deeper sense of peace.

South Island S17 is particularly suitable for those who appreciate a more rustic camping experience while still having essential amenities like a picnic table, fire ring, and bear-proof food storage. It's a fantastic destination for families seeking to introduce their children to true wilderness camping, for friends embarking on a fishing or paddling expedition, or for individuals looking for a profound solo retreat. Being pet-friendly also means our four-legged family members can join in the adventure.

Furthermore, the campsite’s location within Voyageurs National Park means direct access to world-class fishing, incredible hiking trails on mainland portages, and unparalleled opportunities for wildlife observation. The income generated from camping permits at sites like S17 directly supports the maintenance and improvement of park amenities, ensuring that these pristine natural resources remain preserved for generations to come. By choosing South Island S17, Minnesotans are not only enjoying a spectacular outdoor experience but also contributing to the conservation of one of our most treasured national parks. It’s a perfect slice of Minnesota wilderness, waiting to be explored.

South Island S17 Campsite

Crane Lake, MN 55725, USA