Kabetogama State Forest

Kabetogama State Forest spreads across about 600,000 acres with diverse landscapes including lakes, wetlands, and forests where moose, bears, and waterfowl live. The land offers multiple campgrounds, boat launches, and various trails suitable for different activities and seasons.

The forest was officially established in 1933 as a protected area for local communities. It connects geographically with the Superior National Forest and Voyageurs National Park, forming part of Minnesota's forest network.

The forest holds deep connections to the Ojibwe people who have used its resources for hunting and fishing for generations. Visitors walking here today can sense the long relationship between the land and the communities that depend on it.

The area is most accessible from May through October when weather and water conditions are favorable. Visitors should prepare for uneven terrain and allow time for navigation across this expansive wilderness.

The forest contains Lake Vermilion, one of the largest lakes in the region with tens of thousands of acres, where visitors can boat to remote campsites. This island location offers genuine seclusion far from any civilization.

Location: St. Louis County

Location: Koochiching County

Website: https://dnr.state.mn.us/state_forests/forest.html?id=sft00027#homepage

GPS coordinates: 48.43690,-93.03930

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:42