Whites Point R47

- HWWQ+9W, Sha-Sha Resort, MN 56649

For many Minnesota residents, a true escape means finding a place where the only traffic is boat wakes and the loudest sound is the call of the common loon. Whites Point R47 is one of those treasured spots. Located deep within the pristine boundaries of Voyageurs National Park, R47 is a designated Small Campsite on the shores of the iconic Rainy Lake. It is part of the park's frontcountry camping system, which provides essential facilities while maintaining a remote, wilderness feel.

Unlike drive-in campgrounds, access to R47 is exclusively by watercraft—a key feature that guarantees a high degree of privacy and solitude. This campsite is purpose-built for tent campers, accommodating up to a maximum of nine people, and is ideal for adventurers, anglers, and families who are self-sufficient and ready to embrace the Northwoods experience. Reviews from past visitors consistently praise the site’s well-maintained condition and the provision of "all of the things" necessary for a comfortable stay, including a firepit, picnic table, and bear-proof storage. Whites Point R47 is more than just a place to stay; it is a true basecamp for exploring one of Minnesota’s most unique and majestic aquatic environments.

Whites Point R47 is situated on the expansive waters of Rainy Lake in Northern Minnesota, a vast lake system that forms a significant part of the US-Canada border and is the principal waterway in Voyageurs National Park.

Address (Approximate Geographic Marker for the Area):

HWWQ+9W, Sha-Sha Resort, MN 56649, USA

Access is Strictly Boat-In:

The site is located approximately 5.8 miles from the Rainy Lake Visitor Center boat launch, making it accessible but offering significant separation from the mainland hustle. Visitors must transport all gear, water, and supplies via a private or rented watercraft (motorboat, canoe, or kayak). There are no roads or trails leading from the mainland directly to the campsite. The frontcountry location means that while it is remote, it is generally easier to reach and better equipped than the park's more primitive backcountry sites. The campsite is specifically noted for having a "graded/rocked" landing area and a convenient dock for mooring.

As a Small Campsite in Voyageurs National Park, Whites Point R47 includes core amenities that facilitate a safe and environmentally conscious wilderness stay for its users.

• Designated Tent Pads: The site includes two level, cleared tent pads (typically 14' x 14'), designed to protect the fragile forest floor and provide a comfortable, dry base for tents.
• Picnic Table: One sturdy metal or wooden picnic table is provided, serving as a dedicated area for dining and gear organization.
• Fire Ring: A metal fire ring with a cooking grate is available for contained, responsible campfires and cooking. Visitors must adhere to park rules regarding firewood (must be DNR-approved) and fire safety.
• Bear-Proof Food Lockers: Two large, metal food storage lockers are mandatory for the safe keeping of all food, garbage, and scented items (like toiletries), a critical requirement for safety and wildlife protection in this black bear habitat.
• Boat Access Dock: The site features an 8x20 foot floating dock during the peak season (typically May 1st to late September), providing essential, stable mooring for boats and easy access to the shoreline.
• Outdoor Privy: A clean, outdoor vault toilet is provided for visitor sanitation, helping maintain the site's natural integrity.

Whites Point R47 offers a suite of experiential highlights that make it a premium choice for Minnesota campers seeking an authentic Northwoods adventure.

• Unmatched Seclusion and Quiet: Due to its boat-in only access, the campsite guarantees a level of peace and privacy that is rare in developed campgrounds. Visitors can truly disconnect and enjoy the natural sounds of the lake.
• Premier Angling Destination: Rainy Lake is renowned throughout the Midwest for its spectacular fishing, offering opportunities for catching Walleye, Northern Pike, and Bass. R47 serves as an excellent home base for multi-day fishing excursions.
• Stunning Lakefront Views: Located right on the lake, campers are treated to expansive water vistas, picturesque sunsets, and the high potential for spotting local wildlife, including bald eagles, moose, and the park's famous timber wolves.
• Ideal for Paddling and Exploration: The site's location on Rainy Lake provides immediate access to the park's network of waterways and islands, perfect for day trips via canoe, kayak, or paddleboard to explore historic sites and scenic bays.
• Dark Sky Potential: Far from city lights, the area is known for its incredibly dark night skies, offering phenomenal opportunities for stargazing and, on clear nights, viewing the spectacular Northern Lights.

All campsites within Voyageurs National Park, including Whites Point R47, are managed by the National Park Service and require advance reservations.

Park Headquarters Mailing Address:

Voyageurs National Park Headquarters
360 Hwy 11 East
International Falls, MN 56649, USA

Voyageurs National Park Phone:

(218) 283-6600

Note: All campsite bookings must be made through the official federal website (Recreation.gov). Reservations are highly competitive, opening up for the peak season (May 1st - September 30th) several months in advance, and should be secured well before your planned trip.

Whites Point R47 perfectly encapsulates the adventurous spirit of Minnesota. For locals, this site offers the chance to truly disconnect and return to the roots of the state's outdoor heritage: camping by the water, accessed by boat, in a landscape that feels unchanged by time. It is a necessary departure from the crowded roads and popular state park campgrounds, providing an authentic slice of the vast, rugged Northwoods. The presence of essential amenities—a solid dock, bear-proof storage, and picnic facilities—allows experienced Minnesotan campers to focus on enjoying the beauty of Rainy Lake rather than struggling with rudimentary logistics. Whether you are seeking a premier fishing spot, a secluded base for family bonding, or simply a quiet place to hear the loons and see the stars, R47 provides the quintessential, boat-in wilderness experience right in your own backyard. It’s a rewarding adventure for those who know and love the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

Whites Point R47

HWWQ+9W, Sha-Sha Resort, MN 56649, USA