Cutover Island South Campsite

🌲 Introduction / Overview: Your Exclusive Northwoods Retreat at Cutover Island South (K6)

For Minnesota residents looking to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the state's iconic water-based wilderness, Cutover Island South Campsite (K6) in Voyageurs National Park (VNP) offers a premier, secluded experience. As a frontcountry campsite in VNP, K6 is an island location, meaning it is accessible only by watercraft—your motorboat, canoe, or kayak—ensuring the tranquility and separation that define the VNP experience.

Designated as a Small Campsite, K6 is tailored for a maximum of nine campers, making it perfect for families or small groups seeking a private base camp for exploring Kabetogama Lake. The site is well-equipped with the essential amenities provided by the National Park Service (NPS) to make your wilderness stay comfortable and safe, including two tent pads, a fire ring, and secure food storage. It is officially identified as Map Number K6 in the park's inventory.

Cutover Island itself is renowned in the area, not only for its camping opportunities but also for its proximity to some of the best fishing and scenic spots on Lake Kabetogama. Choosing K6 means choosing an unforgettable, classic Minnesota island getaway.

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📍 Location and Accessibility: A Short and Scenic Boat Ride on Kabetogama

Cutover Island South Campsite is located on Cutover Island within the expansive and breathtaking waters of Kabetogama Lake. The general address for the area and the nearest gateway community is Kabetogama, MN 56669, USA.

Accessibility to this coveted spot is strictly Boat-In. Visitors must launch their private watercraft or hire a local water taxi service from one of the park's gateway communities, such as the nearby Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center.

• Proximity: Campsite K6 is one of the more accessible island sites, located just 3.6 miles from the Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center. This relatively short distance makes it a highly desirable location for both motorized boaters and paddlers (canoeists/kayakers) who may be managing gear or dealing with big-lake conditions.
• Landing Surface: The site features a unique Pebble Beach landing. While perhaps not as soft as a sand beach, this pebble surface provides a sturdy area for hauling boats and equipment ashore. Visitors should take care when navigating these shores.
• Navigation: Even on a short route like this, park officials strongly recommend carrying a GPS-enabled map or a paper map and compass, as large, interconnected lakes can become confusing, and weather can change quickly.

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🛠️ Services Offered (Structured Amenities for Comfort in the Wild)

As a regulated Small Campsite (K6) in Voyageurs National Park, the area is equipped with core, well-maintained facilities to support responsible wilderness camping for the permitted number of guests (max 9 people). These amenities are non-negotiable for site preservation and visitor safety:

• Camping Capacity: Accommodates a maximum of 9 people per night.
• Tent Pads: Two dedicated tent pads are provided for pitching tents, measuring approximately 14' x 12' and 14' x 13'6". These pre-leveled areas help protect the surrounding vegetation.
• Food Safety: Two bear-proof food lockers are available. These essential containers are standardized (measuring 52" wide x 36" deep and 21" high) and must be used to store all food, cooking gear, and scented items away from wildlife.
• Cooking Facilities: A single metal fire ring with a cooking grate allows for safe, contained campfires and outdoor meal preparation.
• Dining Area: One sturdy picnic table is provided for meal preparation, dining, and general campsite use.
• Sanitation: One designated outdoor vault privy (pit toilet) is located at the site.
• Pack-Out Policy: Consistent with the primitive nature of VNP camping, campers must follow strict Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and refuse.

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⭐ Features / Highlights (Island Solitude and Fishing Access)

Cutover Island South Campsite is distinguished by several key features that enhance the remote Minnesota camping experience:

• Exceptional Fishing Proximity: Cutover Island itself is located near known fishing hotspots. Local experts specifically highlight the "rocky shorelines around Cutover Island" as prime areas for Smallmouth Bass. Being camped here puts you minutes away from some of the best angling on Kabetogama Lake.
• Pebble Beach Landing: The Pebble Beach access is a unique feature, providing a stable, solid surface for landing watercraft and offering a different feel from the typical sand or rock outcropping landings.
• Island Solitude: The campsite's "Small Campsite" designation and isolated island location ensure a truly private and peaceful experience, often described as a genuine escape from the crowds.
• Short Access Time: At only 3.6 miles from the Visitor Center, the boat ride is relatively short, minimizing travel time and maximizing relaxation time—a significant bonus when traveling on the large, unpredictable waters of VNP.
• Northwoods Scenery: The entire Kabetogama Lake area is characterized by dramatic rock outcroppings, vast boreal forest, and clear waters, providing breathtaking views and excellent opportunities for watching wildlife, including the iconic Minnesota Loon and Bald Eagles.

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☎️ Contact Information

Cutover Island South Campsite (K6) is a facility managed by Voyageurs National Park. All administrative matters, including reservations and permits, are handled through the federal system.

• Address (General Area): Kabetogama, MN 56669, USA
• Campsite Identification: Cutover Island South Campsite (Map Number K6)
• Primary Reservation Portal: Recreation.gov (Search for Voyageurs National Park Camping Permits)
• Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center Phone (for local park information and conditions): (218) 875-2111

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🎯 What is Worth Choosing Cutover Island Campsite K6

Cutover Island South Campsite K6 should be at the top of the list for Minnesotans and regional visitors who are dedicated to the boat-in camping lifestyle and who meet the following criteria:

• The Avid Angler: If your trip revolves around fishing, the location near excellent Smallmouth Bass and Walleye structure on Cutover Island makes K6 an ideal staging area.
• The Efficient Explorer: The proximity—only 3.6 miles from the Kabetogama Visitor Center—makes it perfect for those who want the island experience without committing to a long paddle or boat ride, allowing for more time spent at the campsite or exploring nearby historical sites like the Ellsworth Rock Gardens.
• The Small Group Seeker: If your group is small (up to nine people) and values privacy, this Small Campsite provides the perfect level of seclusion with all the core amenities required for a safe, primitive camping trip in VNP.
• The Prepared Backcountry Camper: You already own or plan to rent a boat, you understand big-lake boating safety, and you are ready to strictly adhere to the mandatory bear-safe food storage and "pack it in, pack it out" wilderness ethics.