Garden Island State Recreation Area in Minnesota

This Minnesota State Recreation Area is an island in Lake of the Woods. For most of the year, you can only get there by boat. In winter, snowmobiles and other vehicles safely traveling on the frozen lake will take you there. The island is uninhabited, and most people go there to fish, relax, or hike. 

A picnic area is included, and a shelter with an emergency phone if you get caught in bad weather. Not sure if you can count on the emergency phone! Most visitors go for the scenery, the fishing, or to enjoy nature, or because they are visiting all the state parks and state recreation areas in Minnesota. 

While traveling on the lake, be aware that you can drift into Canada, and international borders require reporting to the country you are entering. You must carry a passport, passport card, or enhanced driver’s license when crossing over, and report again when crossing back.