Rusty Island East, Kettle Falls, MN

Introduction / Overview

For local Minnesotans drawn to the pure, water-based wilderness of the Northwoods, the Rusty Island East Campsite (Site N35) in Voyageurs National Park offers an authentic, frontcountry island camping experience. Located on Namakan Lake, one of the park’s four major interconnected bodies of water, this destination requires a boat to access, making it a true gateway to the region’s unique aquatic landscape. Unlike many drive-up campgrounds, Rusty Island East promises a sense of remoteness and solitude that defines a classic Minnesota wilderness retreat, despite being a designated and reservable National Park Service site. It’s a small campsite, designed to accommodate up to nine campers, fostering an intimate gathering space for small groups and families seeking to disconnect from the mainland.

Voyageurs National Park is the only U.S. National Park primarily accessible by water, and the experience at Rusty Island East fully embraces this environment. Campers will find the core, rustic amenities necessary for safe and responsible camping within this protected area. It is vital to note that this is a primitive island experience—there are no modern facilities like running water or electricity. This is a place to pitch a tent, start a campfire in a designated ring, and immerse yourself in the natural rhythms of a northern Minnesota lake. Rusty Island East is identified as Site N35 on park maps and is part of the broader system of reservable boat-in campsites that help preserve the park's integrity while providing memorable outdoor recreation.

Location and Accessibility

The Rusty Island East Campsite is situated on Namakan Lake within the vast boundaries of Voyageurs National Park. Its general location is near Kettle Falls and is typically accessed from one of the southern gateway communities, such as Crane Lake or Ash River. The provided coordinate address, 86W9CFMG+VC, Kettle Falls, MN 55725, USA, pinpoints its precise location within the lake system.

Accessibility is defined by its boat-in nature:

It is mandatory for visitors to arrive by watercraft. This includes private motorboats, canoes, kayaks, or a water taxi service hired from a local resort or outfitter in the gateway communities of Crane Lake or Ash River. The site is approximately 14.7 miles from the Crane Lake boat launch, requiring careful navigation across the water. The campsite features "Sand Access," meaning it has a shoreline or beach area suitable for landing watercraft, rather than a fixed dock. This type of access may require more careful boat handling and is subject to lake levels. For those traveling by motorized boat, it is essential to be proficient in watercraft operation and navigation, including awareness of the international border with Canada that runs through the park's lakes. Upon arrival at a mainland boat launch (like those near the visitor centers or local marinas), you can secure your vehicle overnight at designated public parking areas, often free of charge for up to 14 days with a valid camping permit.

Services Offered

As a remote, frontcountry campsite within a protected National Park, Rusty Island East (N35) provides necessary, low-impact facilities to support an overnight stay.

Boat-In Access: The campsite is accessible only by watercraft.
Designated Sanitation: An outdoor vault privy is provided for human waste management.
Bear-Safe Food Storage: Two bear-resistant food lockers are available for safely securing all food, trash, and scented items away from wildlife (each locker typically holds two 48-quart coolers).
Campsite Equipment: The site is equipped with one picnic table and one metal fire ring with a cooking grate.
Parking for Permit Holders: Free overnight parking for up to 14 days is generally available at mainland visitor center boat launch parking lots for those with a valid permit.
Pet Policy: Pets are allowed at this frontcountry campsite, but must be leashed (six feet or shorter) and never left unattended, with all waste properly managed.

Features / Highlights

Rusty Island East offers distinct features that shape the overall camping experience, including insights drawn from public feedback regarding its environment.

Small Campsite Classification: The site is limited to a maximum of 9 people, ensuring a quieter, more isolated wilderness experience.
Tent-Only Camping: The site is reserved exclusively for tent camping and includes two cleared tent pads (each 12’ x 12’) for pitching sleeping arrangements.
Sand Access: Features a sand landing area for watercraft, appealing to those who prefer beach-style access over a dock.
Exposed Lakefront Position: The site is noted for its high exposure, meaning there may be limited shade due to reduced tree cover, which can be an advantage for sun lovers and for observing open views of the lake and night sky. However, this also means reduced protection from sun and wind (as noted in customer feedback regarding 'no shade' and potential wind exposure).
Namakan Lake Location: Provides a premier basecamp for fishing, paddling, and exploring the historic Kettle Falls area, which is nearby.
Natural Environment: The site’s 'sandy mess' (from customer feedback) suggests a mix of sand and natural terrain, which is typical of exposed island points on large Northern lakes.
Lake Traffic: Due to its island location and proximity to major waterways, the site may experience 'lots of boat traffic' (per customer feedback), offering opportunities for viewing various watercraft, including houseboats and fishing vessels.

Contact Information

The Rusty Island East Campsite is a remote, reservable site managed by the National Park Service (NPS). Direct contact for the site is not available; reservations and information are channeled through the park system.

Address (GPS Approximate Location):

86W9CFMG+VC, Kettle Falls, MN 55725, USA

For Reservations:

All overnight camping permits must be reserved in advance through the

Recreation.gov

website or app. Search for Voyageurs National Park Camping Permits.

For Voyageurs National Park General Information (Non-Emergency Phone):

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

Nearest Visitor Center (Ash River Visitor Center, seasonal):

(218) 374-3221

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Rusty Island East Campsite is an outstanding choice for Minnesota locals who possess a spirit of adventure and a deep appreciation for their state's legendary water-centric environment. For those who already own or rent a watercraft, this island escape on Namakan Lake offers a uniquely challenging and rewarding camping experience that is distinctively Minnesotan. It is an opportunity to live entirely by the lake’s schedule, navigating by water, fishing for walleye and northern pike right from your temporary doorstep, and enjoying the expansive, unobstructed views that come with an exposed island point.

The site’s features—its boat-in access, sandy shoreline, and remote location—appeal to local users seeking genuine solitude and an active outdoor getaway. While public feedback indicates a lack of shade and potential for boat traffic, these aspects are often considered part of the charm of a large lake island site. The sand and sun exposure make it an ideal spot for those who enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and watching the parade of life on a major waterway. By requiring the essential preparations (water treatment, bear safety, navigation skills), Rusty Island East ensures that only prepared campers experience its rugged beauty, preserving its character as a true Northwoods gem right here in Minnesota's National Park.