Backcountry Information

Most of the so-called "front country" campsites are not really front country-- you still need to hike or paddle to get to the majority of them, and many are located deep within the park. The main difference between front-country campsites and backcountry campsites are the amenities and the land use regulations. All of the backcountry campsites are located along the chain of inland lakes, a series of small lakes just north of Kabetogama Lake on the Kabetogama Peninsula, accessible via portage from Rainy Lake or Kabetogama Lake. These lakes have particularly fragile ecosystems, and so in order to protect against invasive species the park prohibits the use of personal watercraft (you can rent a boat through the park) and limits fishermen to artificial bait only. Pets are not allowed in these backcountry areas, and the sites here do not have vault toilets or bear proof food storage lockers. Otherwise, there is little to no difference between a backcountry camping experience and a regular overnight camping experience. All campsites require a reservation. With your reservation you'll receive a permit, which you have to print out and post at your campsite when you arrive. If you plan to venture in to the park overnight, you are required to follow Leave No Trace principles and take precautions against attracting or aggravating nearby bears. Hang your food from a tree far from your camp, at least ten feet off the ground and ten fee from the tree trunk. Store any garbage, toiletries, and food-smelling clothing at your bear-hang as well. Know what to do if a bear approaches you. Hunting is not allowed anywhere in the park. You are allowed to collect berries, at a maximum of one gallon per person per day. Use open campfires only when necessary, and make sure to dampen them fully before leaving.