Water Activities
Lake life in northern Minnesota is a year-round experience. Water is abundant on the Chippewa National Forest, with over 1,300 lakes, 925 miles of streams and 400,000 acres of wetlands.
Opportunities to enjoy the water are plentiful. Some visitors seek out the slow tempo of paddling down the Mississippi River, while others relish the spray of water while skiing. Anglers rush to catch that first walleye of the season, while some enjoy a quiet evening on the lake surrounded by fall colors. Whatever your lake life pace, you’ll find it on the Chippewa National Forest.
Ask the Recreation Team
Where can I rent a boat?
Visitors can rent boats through many of the local resorts. Check the area Chamber of Commerce brochure for a listing of resorts and the types of boats available.
- Can I bring my boat and trailer into the campsite?
Campers can bring their boat and trailer into the campsite. Campground hosts may also be able to assist in finding a place for your boat trailer if there is not enough space at your campsite. - Are there any trout lakes on the Forest?
Yes, there are several trout fishing opportunities on the Forest. Check out Benjamin Lake near Blackduck, Diamond, Hazel and TeePee lakes near Walker, and six lakes in the Marcell area, including the well-named Trout Lake. - Do I need to wear my lifejacket?
Minnesota state law requires all children under 10 years to wear a life jacket and a readily accessible lifejacket for each person on the boat. The Chippewa National Forest is 50 percent water and encourages all visitors to wear a properly fitted life jacket. Life jackets are key to keeping a visit safe and enjoyable. - Where can I get a lake map?
Local bait stores sell area lake maps. Another resource is the Minnesota DNR Lake finder webpage or mobile app. Look up specific lake and fisheries information at: www.dnr.state.mn.us/lakefind/index.html
Boating - Motorized
Most area lakes have some type of boat access. A great resource is the public water access maps by county. Go to www.dnr.state.mn.us/wateraccess or pick up a map at a Forest Service or Minnesota DNR office. Look for Beltrami, Cass or Itasca County maps.
Boating - Non-Motorized
Travel the routes of the Anishinabe and early explorers. The Chippewa National Forest has more than 900 miles of rivers and offers several canoe routes, ranging from the mighty Mississippi to the slow-moving Boy River and other small creeks. These canoe routes offer excellent opportunities to view bald eagles, loons and a variety of northern Minnesota wildlife. Walleye, northern and pan fish are good along most of the routes. Primitive campsites are located along most of the rivers.
- Big Fork River
- Boy River
- Mississippi River
- Pike Bay Connection
- Turtle River
Swimming
Who needs a pool? The Chippewa National Forest has three of Minnesota’s largest lakes on the Forest. Go jump in the lake at the day use and camping areas at Cass Lake, Leech Lake or Lake Winnibigoshish.
Swimming Areas
- East Seelye Picnic Area on Cut Foot Sioux
- Stony Point beach on Leech Lake
- Norway Beach Recreation Area
- Benjamin Lake Wayside Rest
- Mabel Lake Campground
- Clubhouse Campground
- North Star Campground
Search for Water Activities Opportunities
Benjamin Lake Boating
Benjamin Lake Family Picnic Area
Benjamin Lake Swimming
Big Fork River Boat Area
Big Lake Boating Area
Big Too Much Lake Boat Area
Bimijiwan (bi-mi-ji-wan) recreation area
Bowstring Landing Boat Area
Boy River Canoe Route
Caribou Lake Boat Area