Mica Island N20 Campsite, International Falls, MN

Minnesota is known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and for residents, the ultimate escape often involves a boat, a tent, and an island of their own. Within the sprawling water wilderness of Voyageurs National Park, you’ll find hundreds of uniquely secluded, boat-in campsites that offer this exact experience. Among the most sought-after is Mica Island Campsite (N20), a spectacular frontcountry destination on the peaceful waters of Namakan Lake.

This site provides the perfect blend of true northern wilderness—with its granite outcrops, towering pines, and crystal-clear water—and convenient access to a key historic landmark. Mica Island N20 is the ideal setting for Minnesotans looking to dock their boat, pitch a tent, and settle in for several days of fishing, paddling, and incredible starry nights, all while remaining close enough to services for a stress-free trip. It is a true Northwoods sanctuary that honors the state's deep connection to its waterways.

Introduction / Overview

Mica Island (N20) is classified as a Frontcountry Campsite within Voyageurs National Park. Unlike backcountry sites which require hiking, frontcountry sites are accessible directly by boat, making them ideal for families, fishing groups, and those with heavier gear. Located on an island in the beautiful and historically rich Namakan Lake, the site is designated for small groups, accommodating a maximum of nine (9) people.

The appeal of N20 is its fantastic positioning. Customer reviews consistently highlight the incredible sunset views from the site, which faces away from the main channel, ensuring a quiet, private experience despite being a popular destination. Its proximity to the famed Kettle Falls area adds a layer of cultural and historic interest to the natural beauty, allowing campers to easily venture out for a unique day trip or resupply run. The site is exceptionally well-equipped with all the necessary amenities for an enjoyable, safe, and comfortable camping adventure in Minnesota's premier water-based National Park.

Location and Accessibility

Mica Island N20 is situated on a small island in Namakan Lake, one of the four major lakes that form the heart of Voyageurs National Park. Namakan Lake is known for its calmer waters compared to the vast Rainy Lake, making it a favorite for smaller boats and canoes.

Location: Namakan Lake, Voyageurs National Park (Mica Island)

Address (General Area): International Falls, MN 56649, USA

Accessibility is strictly Boat-In:

The campsite is typically accessed from the Ash River Visitor Center boat launch, located approximately 9.5 miles away by water. It can also be accessed from the Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, by navigating across Kabetogama Lake and through the channels to Namakan Lake.
The site features a 4’ x 20’ permanent crib dock on one side, which is noted for being deep enough to accommodate a modest-sized boat. However, campers should be prepared for the fact that dock use and mooring in the exposed northern environment can occasionally be tricky depending on wind and wave conditions.
Mica Island N20 is uniquely positioned within striking distance of the historic Kettle Falls Hotel, making it one of the most conveniently located island campsites for those who enjoy a quick boat trip for a meal or to visit a historic landmark.

Services Offered

As a frontcountry site managed by the National Park Service, Mica Island N20 provides essential amenities to make a boat-in stay enjoyable while adhering to Leave No Trace principles. All services are rustic yet vital for a safe wilderness experience:

Two Tent Pads: The site includes two designated tent pads measuring approximately 12'x12' and 11'x9', providing level, cleared areas for tent setup and minimizing impact.
Permanent Dock Access: A 4-foot by 20-foot permanent crib dock is provided for boat mooring and easy, direct access from the water to the campsite.
Food Storage: Two (2) large, bear-proof food lockers (52" wide x 36" deep x 21" high) are installed to safely store all food, garbage, and scented items away from wildlife.
Picnic Facilities: A heavy-duty metal picnic table is included for meal preparation and dining.
Fire Ring: A metal fire ring with a cooking grate is available for campfires and outdoor cooking (subject to any park-wide fire restrictions).
Vault Toilet: One designated outdoor vault toilet (privy) is available to ensure sanitary waste disposal.

Features / Highlights

Mica Island N20 is cherished by local campers for its specific attributes that elevate the traditional island camping experience:

Prime Sunset Views: Facing westward over Namakan Lake, the campsite is lauded by users for offering spectacular, unobstructed views of the sunset over the water—a truly iconic Minnesota moment.
Proximity to Kettle Falls: Its location offers easy access for a short boat ride to the historic Kettle Falls area, home to the famous Kettle Falls Hotel and its amenities, providing a unique opportunity for an unexpected meal or resupply run while deep in the National Park.
Seclusion from Main Channels: While located on a main lake, the site is positioned away from the primary boat travel lanes, offering a more tranquil and quieter atmosphere than sites closer to the high-traffic areas.
Island Camping Appeal: The experience of having a small island or island point largely to oneself—accessible only by water—is the very essence of a Voyageurs National Park adventure, offering superior privacy and a constant, soothing waterfront ambiance.
Excellent Fishing Base: Namakan Lake is renowned for its fishing, and Mica Island serves as an outstanding base camp for local anglers targeting Walleye, Northern Pike, and Smallmouth Bass.

Contact Information

Mica Island N20 is part of the Namakan Lake area of Voyageurs National Park. All reservations and park information are handled through the National Park Service.

Address: International Falls, MN 56649, USA (Voyageurs National Park General Area)

Phone: (218) 283-6600 (Voyageurs National Park Headquarters)

Reservation Note: Frontcountry campsites like Mica Island N20 are highly popular. Local Minnesotans should reserve permits months in advance, typically beginning on November 15th for the following summer season, through the Recreation.gov system.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

Mica Island N20 is tailor-made for the Minnesotan who loves to boat, fish, and experience the 'boundary waters' feel without the portaging required in other regions. It represents an elevated, yet comfortably rustic, island camping vacation. Unlike many drive-in campgrounds, this site requires water travel, a tradition deeply embedded in our state’s recreational culture, appealing directly to those who own a small craft or are willing to rent one from local outfitters.

The unique combination of a private island setting, reliable amenities (dock, bear lockers, privy), stunning sunset views, and the novelty of being able to boat to the historic Kettle Falls for an ice cream or a change of scenery makes N20 an absolute favorite. For locals, it’s not just a campsite; it’s a secluded home base for exploring the vast, water-rich environment of Voyageurs National Park—a truly essential northern Minnesota experience.