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Are dogs allowed on the pontoons?
Yes, well behaved dogs are allowed on the pontoons.Can I grill on the pontoon?
No—grilling is not allowed on pontoon boats for safety reasons. Guests are encouraged to use the picnic tables and fire pits available at Voyageurs National Park designated campsites and day-use areas.Is there shade on the pontoon?
Yes, The bimini top covers the majority of the stern and mid-deck area.Can I smoke on the pontoon?
No, absolutely no smoking is allowed on the pontoon boat.Is there a restroom on board?
No, all VNP campsites and day use sites contain lavatory facilities. Please refer to the visitors map to find a nearby facility.Can I keep a pontoon overnight at a VNP campsite?
Yes, as long as the campsite has a dock or a sand beach suitable for safely mooring the pontoon. Pontoons are not permitted at campsites with rocky shorelines. Please call if you have questions about suitable locations.Can I keep a pontoon overnight at a VRBO or vacation rental on the lake?
Yes, as long as there is a suitable dock to safely moor the pontoon. Please call us if you have any questions about your dock.Will you deliver the pontoon to my VRBO or vacation rental?
Yes, we offer delivery to VRBOs and vacation rentals. A $75 delivery fee applies to single-day rentals, while delivery is complimentary for multi-day rentals.Is gas included?
Fuel is not included, but your boat will start with a full tank. After your trip, we’ll refill it and only charge you for what you used.
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Where do I pick up the kayak or canoe?
Your paddlecraft will be delivered to the paddle launch area at the visitor center you choose during checkout—no need to transport it yourself.Do I need to meet you at 9:00 AM to receive the canoe?
No, you do not need to be present. We deliver canoes and kayaks to your selected pickup location by 9:00 AM, and you’re welcome to arrive and use them anytime throughout the day.What time do I need to return the kayak/canoe?
We ask that the paddlecraft be returned to the pickup location 1 hour prior to sunset.How do I identify the paddlecraft I’ve rented?
All paddlecraft are easy to spot with Voyageurs Outfitters stickers. Canoes are red Novacraft models, and kayaks are sunset-colored Old Towns. Paddlecraft aren’t individually assigned—just take the number of paddlecraft you have reserved.Can I transport a kayak or canoe on my vehicle?
Yes! If you have the proper rooftop setup or a pickup, you’re welcome to pick up your canoe or kayak at our facility and save on the delivery fee.Do you only deliver to the VNP Visitor Centers?
No, we can deliver to campgrounds and rental properties as well. Guests need to call and arrange special deliveries as that option is not available during checkout.
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Are there discounts for multiday rentals?
Yes! We offer discounted daily rates on our 17′ Lund Adventure fishing boat for multi-day rentals. The daily rate is reduced for 2-day rentals, with even greater savings for 3- and 4-day rentals. Our best daily rates are available for rentals of 5 days or more.Where do I pick up the fishing boat?
The fishing boats are kept in slips at Thunderbird lodge and that’s where 1 day rentals will depart from. Multi-day rental can be delivered to the Rainy lake visitor center.Where do I park?
We have designated free parking for our daily guests just to the left as you arrive at Thunderbird lodge. Multi-day guests can park for free at the Rainy Lake visitor Center.Is bait included?
No, bait is not included but is available at Rainy One Stop; a gas station and outdoors store near VNP.Is fishing gear included?
Fishing rods and tackle are not included, but you can easily add them to your reservation by giving us a call. We do include a net and a minnow bucket.Is gas included?
Fuel is not included, but your boat will start with a full tank. After your trip, we’ll refill it and only charge you for what you used.Can I keep a boat overnight at a Voyageurs National Park campsite?
Yes. You may keep one of our rental boats overnight at your Voyageurs National Park campsite, provided the site has a suitable place to secure it. Our 17′ fishing boats require a campsite with a dock, while our 16′ tiller boats can be beached on a sand shoreline. Boats cannot be left overnight at campsites with rocky shorelines, as they cannot be safely moored there. If you’re unsure whether your campsite is suitable, please give us a call—we’re happy to help you choose the right location.Can I keep a boat overnight at a VRBO or vacation rental on the lake?
Yes, as long as there is a suitable dock to safely moor the boat. Please call us if you have any questions about your dock.Will you deliver the boat to my VRBO or vacation rental?
Yes, we offer delivery to VRBOs and vacation rentals. A $75 delivery fee applies to single-day rentals, while delivery is complimentary for multi-day rentals.
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Voyageurs National Park Boat Tour FAQsExperience the beauty, history, and wildlife of Voyageurs National Park on a guided boat tour with Voyageurs Outfitters. Departing from Thunderbird Lodge on Rainy Lake, our small-group tours offer a personalized way to explore one of America’s most unique national parks. Whether you’re joining our popular Kettle Falls Tour or a shorter sightseeing excursion, these frequently asked questions will help you prepare for your adventure.
Where Do Tours Depart From?All Voyageurs Outfitters boat tours depart from Thunderbird Lodge, located at 2170 County Road 139, International Falls, MN 56649, approximately 10 miles east of International Falls on Highway 11.We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.Where Do I Park?Voyageurs Outfitters has designated guest parking on the left side of the driveway as you enter the Thunderbird Lodge property. Parking spaces are clearly marked with orange Voyageurs Outfitters signs.Where Do I Meet the Captain?Your captain will meet you at the front entrance of Thunderbird Lodge approximately 15 minutes before departure.How Long Is the Kettle Falls Tour?Our Kettle Falls Tour operates from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, making it a six-hour guided experience through the heart of Voyageurs National Park.Guests should know that you won’t be sitting on the boat for six straight hours. Throughout the day, we make several stops to explore points of interest, learn about the history of the park, enjoy scenic overlooks, and visit the historic Kettle Falls Hotel. In most cases, guests are not on the boat for more than about an hour at a time before another stop is made.What’s the Difference Between the 2-Hour Tour and the Kettle Falls Tour?Our 2-Hour Sightseeing Tour is perfect for visitors looking for a shorter introduction to Voyageurs National Park. Guests will explore portions of Rainy Lake, learn about local history, view scenic islands and shorelines, and often encounter wildlife.The Kettle Falls Tour is a more comprehensive experience that travels deeper into the park and includes multiple stops along the way, including time at the historic Kettle Falls Hotel. Guests who have the time available and want a more in-depth Voyageurs National Park experience generally choose the Kettle Falls Tour.What Should I Bring?We recommend dressing for the weather, as conditions can change throughout the day. Layers are always best.You may also wish to bring:- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Camera or phone for photos
- Light jacket or rain gear
- Cash or credit card for purchases at Kettle Falls Hotel
What’s Included?All tours include:- Light snacks
- Bottled water
- Assorted soft drinks
- Adult beverages
Our goal is to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience while exploring Voyageurs National Park.Is Lunch Provided?Lunch is not included with the tour. During our stop at the historic Kettle Falls Hotel, most guests choose to purchase lunch from the restaurant, although guests are welcome to bring their own lunch.Are Restrooms Available During the Tour?Yes. Restroom facilities are available at Thunderbird Lodge before departure, at Kettle Falls Hotel, and at several stops throughout Voyageurs National Park.Because our tours make multiple stops throughout the day, guests are rarely far from restroom facilities. In the event of an unexpected need, your captain can typically reach a restroom stop within 10–15 minutes.Will There Be Opportunities for Wildlife Photography?Absolutely. Our tours are limited to no more than six guests, creating a personalized experience that is ideal for photography.While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, Voyageurs National Park is home to bald eagles, loons, beavers, river otters, deer, black bears, and many other species. When wildlife is spotted, your captain will make every reasonable effort to position the boat for viewing and photography opportunities while respecting the animals and their natural habitat.What Wildlife Might We See?Wildlife sightings vary from day to day, but guests frequently encounter bald eagles, loons, beavers, river otters, deer, turtles, and a variety of other birds and animals throughout the park.Is the Tour Suitable for Children?Yes. Our tours are family-friendly and suitable for guests of all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and life jackets are available for all passengers.Can I Bring My Dog?Well-behaved dogs are welcome on most tours. Please contact us prior to booking so we can ensure the tour is a good fit for both your pet and fellow guests.Is the Boat Covered?Yes. Our tour boats feature covered seating areas that provide shade from the sun and protection from light rain, helping keep guests comfortable throughout the tour.Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?Yes. Guests are welcome to bring additional snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. Please let us know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions or special requests.Will I Have Cell Service During the Tour?Cell service is available in many areas of Voyageurs National Park but can be limited or unavailable in more remote sections of the park. We recommend downloading any important maps or information before your tour.What Should I Do If I Get Motion Sickness?Motion sickness is generally not a concern on our tours. While Rainy Lake is a large lake, conditions are very different from ocean travel, and our boats operate in protected waters throughout much of Voyageurs National Park.In over a decade of operating tours, we have never had a guest become seasick on one of our boats. Additionally, our tours include multiple stops throughout the day, meaning guests are not continuously underway for long periods of time.Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?Unfortunately, our tours are not wheelchair accessible at this time.Guests must be able to step on and off the boat and navigate docks and uneven surfaces at several stops throughout the tour, including Kettle Falls and other locations within Voyageurs National Park.Can I Charter the Entire Boat for My Group?Yes. Private charters are available and are a great option for families, photographers, corporate groups, reunions, birthdays, and special occasions. Contact us for availability and pricing.What Happens if the Weather Is Bad?Tours operate in most weather conditions, including light rain. However, if severe weather or unsafe boating conditions are forecast, Voyageurs Outfitters may delay, reschedule, or cancel a tour.If a tour is canceled by Voyageurs Outfitters, guests will have the option to reschedule or receive a refund.How Many Passengers Are on Each Tour?Voyageurs Outfitters specializes in small-group experiences. Most tours are limited to six guests, allowing for a more personalized experience, better wildlife viewing opportunities, and plenty of time to ask questions throughout the trip.
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Voyageurs National Park Water Taxi FAQsGetting to your campsite, cabin, hiking trail, or remote destination in Voyageurs National Park has never been easier. Voyageurs Outfitters provides reliable water taxi service throughout Rainy Lake, helping visitors access some of the most beautiful and remote areas of Voyageurs National Park without needing their own boat.Whether you’re camping, fishing, hiking, or simply exploring the park, these frequently asked questions will help you plan your trip.
What Is a Water Taxi?A water taxi is a boat transportation service that takes passengers and their gear to destinations that are only accessible by water. Many campsites, islands, hiking trails, cabins, and houseboats within Voyageurs National Park cannot be reached by road, making a water taxi one of the easiest and most convenient ways to access the park.What Time Do Water Taxis Depart?Most water taxi departures are scheduled for 2:00 PM, unless alternative arrangements have been made in advance. Voyageurs National Park campsite check-in begins at 3:00 PM, making this departure time ideal for most campers.If you need a different departure time, please contact us and we will do our best to accommodate your schedule.Is the Water Taxi Price for Both Ways?Yes. Our standard water taxi pricing includes both your drop-off and pickup transportation.One-way transportation is also available at approximately half of the round-trip rate.What Areas Do You Serve?Voyageurs Outfitters primarily provides water taxi service throughout Rainy Lake and the Rainy Lake portion of Voyageurs National Park.We regularly transport visitors to:- Campsites
- Islands
- Cabins
- Houseboats
- Hiking trails
- Resorts
- Fishing destinations
- Day-use areas
If you are unsure whether your destination is within our service area, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.Do I Need to Reserve My Water Taxi in Advance?The earlier, the better.During the busy summer season, especially weekends and holidays, water taxi reservations can fill quickly. We recommend reserving your transportation as soon as you have secured your campsite reservation.Last-minute reservations are often available, but availability cannot be guaranteed during peak periods.Are Pets Allowed on the Water Taxi?Yes. Well-behaved pets are welcome aboard our water taxi service.We ask that pets remain under control and be respectful of other passengers and their gear.Can We Rent Canoes or Kayaks and Take Them With Us?Absolutely.Guests using our water taxi service receive complimentary delivery of canoes and kayaks rented through Voyageurs Outfitters directly to their campsite. This allows you to enjoy paddling during your trip without having to transport equipment yourself.Can You Transport Camping Gear and Supplies?Yes. Our water taxis are designed to transport both passengers and gear, making them an excellent option for campers who don’t want to worry about packing light.Coolers, tents, sleeping bags, camp chairs, fishing gear, backpacks, food, firewood, and other camping supplies can typically be accommodated without issue.How Much Gear Can We Bring?A lot.One of the biggest advantages of using a water taxi in Voyageurs National Park is that you don’t need to worry about packing light. Unlike canoe or kayak trips, weight is generally not a concern on our water taxis.Most groups bring everything they need for a comfortable camping trip, including multiple coolers, camping equipment, fishing gear, food, beverages, and personal supplies.If you have unusually large items or special equipment, simply let us know when booking and we’ll make sure we have the appropriate boat available.Is Gas Included in the Price?Yes. Fuel is included in all water taxi pricing.There are no hidden fuel surcharges or additional gas charges.How Many People Can You Take on a Water Taxi?We can accommodate up to 6 passengers per trip, along with their gear.For larger groups, additional trips can be arranged for an additional fee.Can You Help Me Choose a Campsite?Yes.With more than 270 campsites spread across Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, Namakan Lake, and Sand Point Lake, selecting the right campsite can be overwhelming.We regularly help visitors choose campsites based on:- Group size
- Camping experience
- Fishing goals
- Swimming opportunities
- Privacy preferences
- Boat accessibility
- Paddling ability
- Exposure to wind and weather
If you’re unsure where to camp, give us a call at 218-324-1863 and we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.What Happens if the Weather Is Bad?Weather conditions can change quickly in Voyageurs National Park, particularly on larger sections of Rainy Lake.Water taxi service operates in most weather conditions, but severe weather, high winds, or unsafe boating conditions may require delays or schedule adjustments.Safety is always our top priority. If weather affects your transportation, we will work with you to safely coordinate alternative arrangements whenever possible.Can You Pick Us Up Early if Our Plans Change?In many cases, yes.If your plans change and you’d like to return earlier than scheduled, contact us as soon as possible. While early pickups cannot be guaranteed, we will do our best to accommodate your request based on captain and boat availability.Do I Need a Boat to Camp in Voyageurs National Park?No.Many visitors use our water taxi service to access campsites throughout Voyageurs National Park. A water taxi is one of the easiest ways to experience the park if you don’t own a boat or prefer not to paddle long distances with camping gear.Our service allows you to enjoy the camping experience without the expense and responsibility of bringing your own boat.Why Choose a Water Taxi Instead of Paddling?A water taxi allows you to bring more gear, reach remote campsites quickly, avoid long paddles across open water, and start enjoying your camping trip immediately.Many visitors choose to take a water taxi to their campsite and then use rented canoes or kayaks to explore the surrounding area during their stay.This combination offers the best of both worlds: easy transportation and a true Voyageurs National Park paddling experience.
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Voyageurs National Park is located in north central Minnesota on the Canadian border in the Rainy Lake area. The Park is located on the northern border of Minnesota, 55 miles of the park stretch along the Ontario border. Voyageurs is about 15 miles east of International Falls, Minnesota and 300 miles north of Minneapolis – Saint Paul, Minnesota (five hours by car), three hours from Duluth, Minnesota, and four hours from Winnipeg, Manitoba. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness lies to the east of the park. The park lies in the southern part of the Canadian Shield.
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Voyageurs is a water based park. Access to the Kabetogama peninsula, the islands and nearly all of the park’s shoreline is by watercraft. Free public boat ramps and parking are available at the park’s visitor centers and at the Kabetogama State Forest Campgrounds. Watercraft rental and water taxi service are available from private outfitters and resorts at each of the park’s four gateway communities – Ash River, Crane Lake, International Falls and Lake Kabetogama. Hiring a guided boat tour is highly recommended for newcomers to the park.
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all park campsites/houseboat sites are accessible only by water; there are over 200 sites; Voyageurs does not have any campsites that are accessible by car or foot. There are two small campgrounds in the park – north shore of Crane Lake (King Williams Narrows) and Mukooda Lake (interior lake just north of Crane Lake). There are five individual sites at each of these small campgrounds; accommodates up to 45 people
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources operates two drive-in campgrounds – Woodenfrog on Kabetogama Lake and Ash River in Ash River. Resorts in gateway communities have campsites for tents and RV’s. -
Visitors can camp in the park for 14 consecutive days and 30 calendar days all year. Visitors can leave their cars parked at a visitor center for the duration of their stay in the park.
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Visitors must use one of the park’s developed campsites because they are built to protect the park’s resources and to withstand use. Reservations can be made at www.recreation.gov.
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We like to say that Voyageurs is just like the Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness with one exception, Voyageurs is Fun. All campsites, unlike BWCAW, feature:
- tent pads (large: 13’ x 13’ or small: 7’ x 9’); small tent sites usually have 2 tent pads. large tent sites usually have 4 tent pads.
- metal food lockers (52” wide x 36” deep x 21” high)
- privy (toilet)
- fire ring
- picnic table
- dock (not all sites)
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Yes. The park has three visitors centers – Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake and Ash River. Rainy Lake is open year-round with reduced hours during the winter. Kabetogama Lake and Ash River are open seasonally. The park also has a ranger station at Crane Lake with very limited hours. The park maintains an informational bulletin board and overnight permit station across the street from the Ranger’s house. No other NPS facilities are at Crane Lake.
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The visitor’s centers are all accessible as are the tour boats. There are also a variety of HA campsites and visitor’s destinations within the park.