Stoneburner Island S18 Campsite

For Minnesotans yearning for an authentic wilderness adventure, a truly secluded experience awaits at Stoneburner Island S18 Campsite. Located in the breathtaking expanse of Voyageurs National Park, near Crane Lake, this campsite offers a unique "boat-in" experience, placing you directly amidst the pristine beauty of Sand Point Lake. Described by visitors as "beautiful" with "amazing views," it promises an unforgettable immersion into the heart of Northern Minnesota's iconic water-based wilderness. This isn't your typical roadside campground; it's a destination for those prepared to navigate the waters to reach a truly serene and untouched natural setting. While offering essential amenities for a comfortable stay, Stoneburner Island S18 emphasizes a connection with the raw beauty of Voyageurs National Park. This comprehensive guide will delve into what makes this island campsite a remarkable choice for local Minnesota adventurers, along with crucial details for planning your trip.

Stoneburner Island S18 Campsite is situated on Stoneburner Island within Sand Point Lake, part of Voyageurs National Park, near Crane Lake, MN 55725, USA. This location signifies a pivotal aspect of its accessibility: it is a "boat-in" only campsite. This means that to reach S18, visitors must utilize a private watercraft or arrange for a water taxi or boat rental from the mainland access points, primarily from the Crane Lake area. The site is approximately 9.7 miles from the Crane Lake boat launch, making it an achievable journey for experienced boaters.

For Minnesota residents, particularly those from the Twin Cities or other parts of the state, the drive to Crane Lake is the first step of the journey. Once at Crane Lake, the adventure truly begins on the water. It’s crucial to be familiar with lake navigation or consider hiring a local guide service if you're not comfortable operating a boat in the expansive and intricate waters of Voyageurs National Park. The park is renowned for its vast water network, making boat travel an integral part of the experience. While challenging for some, this boat-in access ensures a level of seclusion and an authentic wilderness experience that is increasingly rare, appealing to those seeking true solitude amidst Minnesota's famous Boundary Waters and National Park system.

Stoneburner Island S18 Campsite, as a frontcountry campsite within Voyageurs National Park, offers essential amenities designed to support a comfortable yet rustic camping experience:

• Designated Campsite (ID S18): A specific, identifiable site ensures a reserved spot in this popular park.
• Small Campsite Size: Classified as "Small," it is designed for a more intimate group, with a maximum capacity of 9 people.
• Two Tent Pads: The site includes two designated tent pads, each with dimensions of 10 feet by 12 feet, providing clear, level areas for setting up tents.
• One Picnic Table: A single picnic table is provided, offering a convenient surface for meals and gathering.
• One Fire Ring: A fire ring is available for campfires, cooking, and warmth, subject to park-specific fire regulations.
• Two Bear Lockers: Crucially, the site is equipped with two bear lockers for safe food storage, essential in a wilderness area with active wildlife. This helps protect both campers and animals.
• One Outdoor Privy: An outdoor privy (outhouse/vault toilet) is provided for sanitation needs.
• Sand Landing (as described by park, but often rocky in practice): The park's description indicates a "Sand Landing" for boat access. However, a significant review highlights a discrepancy, noting "Zero sand. All rock," which is a vital piece of information for boat owners regarding parking.
• Boat-In Access: The site is exclusively accessible by boat, defining a key aspect of the camping experience and promoting a secluded atmosphere.
• Lakefront Proximity: The campsite is located directly on Sand Point Lake, offering lakefront views and immediate access to the water for recreational activities.

• Stunning Natural Beauty and Amazing Views: The most significant highlight, confirmed by visitor reviews, is the campsite's "beautiful" surroundings and "amazing views." Its location on an island in Sand Point Lake within Voyageurs National Park offers unparalleled scenery.
• True Wilderness and Seclusion: Being a boat-in only site ensures a high degree of seclusion and a genuine wilderness experience, far removed from road noise and crowds. This appeals greatly to those seeking solitude and an immersive natural escape.
• Designated and Equipped Campsite: Despite its remote feel, the site is well-equipped with essential amenities like tent pads, a picnic table, a fire ring, and critically, bear lockers and an outdoor privy, enhancing safety and comfort.
• Part of Voyageurs National Park: Camping within a National Park provides access to a vast network of water routes, islands, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, and exploration unique to this water-based park.
• Ideal for Tent and Hammock Camping: With designated tent pads, the site is perfectly suited for traditional tent camping. The wooded nature of islands in the park can also support hammock camping.
• Challenges and Rewards of Boat Access: While the rocky boat parking can be a challenge for certain boat types (as noted by a review), successfully navigating to and staying at this site offers immense rewards in terms of unique access to nature and a sense of accomplishment.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The secluded nature of an island campsite within a national park greatly increases the chances of observing local wildlife in their natural habitat.

Address: Crane Lake, MN 55725, USA (Stoneburner Island S18, Voyageurs National Park)

As Stoneburner Island S18 Campsite is managed by the National Park Service as part of Voyageurs National Park, direct phone numbers for individual campsites are not typically provided. For all inquiries, reservations, and crucial information regarding park regulations, current conditions, boat access, and specific campsite details, visitors should contact Voyageurs National Park directly or use the official booking platform.

Primary contact and reservation details are generally found through:

• Recreation.gov: This is the main platform for reserving campsites within Voyageurs National Park. Search for "Stoneburner Island S18, Voyageurs National Park Camping Permits."
• Voyageurs National Park Official Website: The National Park Service website for Voyageurs National Park provides comprehensive information on planning your visit, including accessibility, regulations, and contact information for park headquarters or visitor centers. You can typically find a main park phone number there for general inquiries.

It is highly recommended to check these official sources frequently before and during your trip planning, especially concerning boat-in access details and any advisories.

For Minnesotans who truly embrace the state's iconic "Land of 10,000 Lakes" identity, Stoneburner Island S18 Campsite offers an unparalleled outdoor experience. It's not just a campsite; it's an adventure into the heart of Voyageurs National Park, a water-based wilderness that is a jewel of Minnesota. While the "boat-in" access and the noted rocky boat parking require careful planning and appropriate gear (especially for painted aluminum or fiberglass boats, which might require extra protection), the rewards far outweigh the preparation.

This campsite provides a rare opportunity for true seclusion and immersion in nature, far from the sounds of roads and bustling crowds. The "beautiful" surroundings and "amazing views" described by visitors are a testament to the serene beauty that awaits. With essential amenities like tent pads, a picnic table, fire ring, and crucial bear lockers and an outdoor privy, it offers the necessary comforts for an extended stay in the wild. For locals, Stoneburner Island S18 represents an accessible yet wonderfully remote escape into their home state's most pristine aquatic wilderness. It’s an ideal spot for experienced outdoor enthusiasts, anglers, or families with sturdy boats who seek a genuine connection with Minnesota's unique natural heritage, promising an unforgettable journey and a deeply rewarding camping experience.

Stoneburner Island S18 Campsite

Crane Lake, MN 55725, USA