Discover Northwest Minnesota on the Red Lake River

The Red Lake River is a tributary of the Red River of the North in Northwest Minnesota. Canoeing the river is an enjoyable experience for both beginning and experienced canoers.

Minnesota DNR State Canoe Route
The Red Lake River is one of the few Minnesota state canoe routes in the area.
Official DNR Information

Varied Terrain
The Red Lake River covers a wide variety of terrain. After leaving the Red Lake, the river flows through a marsh in the Red Lake Indian Reservation. The river then flows through a prairie, then through farmland. After St. Hilaire the sides of the river grow steeper, becoming large eroding cliffs. Parts of the river are thickly forested.

Class I, II and III Rapids
The river is relatively smooth for most of the trip. There is a stretch between St. Hilaire and Crookston where there is a chain of rapids, which are easily navigated.

Camping Facilities
There are a number of rest areas and camping facilities along the route.
Important Considerations when Camping