Title: How To Visit Voyageurs National Park: A Family Adventure in Our Double Decker RV
Today, I’m super excited to share with you one of our recent family escapades to one of America’s lesser-known treasures – Voyageurs National Park. If you’ve been following our journey in the double-decker RV, you already know that we’re all about finding those unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations that are both thrilling and family-friendly.
Why Voyageurs National Park Should Be on Your Family’s Radar
Situated in northern Minnesota, bordering Canada, Voyageurs National Park is a sprawling wilderness that’s often overshadowed by the likes of Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon. But don’t let its relative obscurity fool you. This park is a paradise for families who crave outdoor adventures like canoeing, hiking, fishing, and stargazing. The National Park Service highlights this park as a haven for water enthusiasts since it encompasses more than 40% water, including four major lakes and numerous interconnected waterways.
Planning Your Trip: When to Go?
Timing is everything, especially when you’re coordinating a trip for a family of eight. The summer months from June to September offer the best weather conditions for outdoor activities in Voyageurs. During this period, the park comes alive with vibrant greenery and wildlife. While winter offers a snowy wonderland perfect for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, keep in mind that Minnesota winters can be harsh and may not be suitable for all families, especially with little ones in tow.
Getting There: The Journey to Voyageurs
The journey is just as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself. Starting from our basecamp in Duluth, we set out in the van for a few hours long trip. Traveling northwards from Duluth, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive to the park. And trust me, with our six energetic kids, we’ve learned a thing or two about keeping everyone entertained during long drives. Audio-books, road trip bingo, and our family’s favorite playlists are must-haves.
Accommodations: Where to Stay
Voyageurs is unique in that it doesn’t have any drive-up campsites. Yep, you heard that right. But don’t worry, intrepid family travelers! We found the perfect base camp at the nearby Woodenfrog State Forest Campground, unfortunately did not get a chance to stay there because we weren’t aware of this campground before our journey. However, if you’re staying at Woodenfrog it’s just a short drive from the park’s visitor center, the campground offers spacious spots which would have accommodated the double-decker and has sites equipped with primitive facilities that give you a true sense of wilderness.
Navigating the Park: Water, Water Everywhere
One of the coolest aspects of Voyageurs is that many of the sites can only be reached by water. Renting a boat or joining a guided tour can add an unforgettable dimension to your experience. In our case, we opted for a day-long guided boat tour, which was both educational and exhilarating. With the twins’ life jackets secured and the older kids armed with binoculars, we set off to explore the park’s intricate waterways. The park offers several tours, and you can book these through the Visitor Center or online at Recreation.gov.
Family-Friendly Activities at Voyageurs
Hiking for All Ages
Voyageurs boasts trails that cater to every experience level, from easy boardwalk strolls perfect for tiny toddler feet, to more challenging hikes that even our 10-year-old found rewarding. The Blind Ash Bay Trail was a particular hit with the kids, as it offered an interactive adventure with the opportunity to spot local wildlife such as Bald Eagles and perhaps even a black bear (from a safe distance, of course).
Canoeing and Kayaking
Canoeing and kayaking are must-do activities here. We rented a couple of canoes from the Rainy Lake Visitor Center. Gliding through the serene waters, with loons calling in the distance, we were transported to a different world. The calmness of the water was perfect for the kids to learn the ropes of paddling – an absolute highlight for them!
Junior Ranger Program
It’s no secret that we’re huge fans of the Junior Ranger Program, and Voyageurs did not disappoint. By completing a series of educational activities, the kids earned themselves another Junior Ranger badge to add to their growing collection. The program is an excellent way for children to engage with the park and learn about the environment, all while having a blast.
Star Gazing
Don’t even get me started on the night skies at Voyageurs. With minimal light pollution, it’s an astronomer’s dream. We snuggled up with hot cocoa and blankets outside our RV and gazed upwards as the cosmos put on a spectacular show. Spotting constellations, satellites, and even catching the glimmer of the Northern Lights were magical moments that our family will cherish.
Tips for a Smooth Voyageurs National Park Visit
Pack for All Weather Conditions
In Minnesota, the weather can be unpredictable, so layering is key. Even in summer, nights can get cool. Don’t forget those waterproof jackets – rain showers can pop up unexpectedly!
Stay Bug-Prepared
Mosquitoes and ticks are common, so stock up on repellent and consider treating your clothing with permethrin for extra protection.
Leave No Trace
As with any national park, it’s crucial to respect the environment. Teach your kids the importance of leaving nature as pristine as they found it. It’s a lesson that aligns closely with our family’s values and one that will help ensure these beautiful spaces are preserved for future generations.
Be Flexible
When you’re traveling with a big family, things don’t always go as planned. Be patient, adaptable, and open to spontaneity – it often leads to the best adventures!
The Takeaway
Our time at Voyageurs National Park was nothing short of extraordinary. It’s an ideal spot for families to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature (and each other). For those curious about embarking on a similar journey, you can find more tips on family RV travel and destination guides right here on our blog.
We can’t wait to share our next adventure with you, so stay tuned and remember, the world is out there waiting for us to explore it, one family road trip at a time.
Safe travels,
DoubleDeckerFam
P.S. Have you ever been to Voyageurs National Park, or do you have other hidden gem national parks that you think our family should check out? We’d love hearing from you and drawing inspiration from your experiences too!
