With a surface area of over 25,000 acres, Kabetogama Lake is one of the largest inland lakes in Minnesota. You’ll see the amazing untouched wilderness and scenery that the very first Native Americans and Frenchmen (after whom the park is named) saw centuries ago. The lake is good for boating, fishing and exploring the shore. You can rent a boat, bring your own or take a tour. If you’re on the north side, be sure to stop by the Ellsworth Rock Gardens. You’ll find 52 terrace flower beds and rock sculptures, constructed over decades beginning in the 1940s. There’s a ¼ mile ranger-led tour that will give you more insight into the history of the area. Stop at the Kabetogama Visitor Center where you’ll board for your 90-minute tour of the lake and gardens. Adults are $25 and children are $15.

Camping in the park is one of the best ways to experience the wilderness first hand. There is both front-country and back-country camping available. All campsites are accessible only by water. Front-country sites do not require any additional hiking, while back-country sites will require you to hike after being dropped off by boat. The campsites have limited amenities and you’ll need to either use your own watercraft or otherwise get transportation. Make sure to visit recreation.gov to get your camping permit. Cost ranges from $16-$20 per day during the high season. From October through April, there is no cost, although you’ll still need a permit.

One of the few signs of civilization in the park is the Kettle Falls Hotel. It’s an oasis in the middle of the park wilderness, but you’ll still feel like you’re disconnected from the rest of the outside world. Built in 1913, the hotel is the only lodging in the park. It’s also accessible only by boat. You can check out the antiques and historic grounds or use it as a jumping off point for your park exploration. It’s also the only place in the park where you can sit down and have a meal. If you’re looking to stop in for a drink, you can enjoy it on their screened in veranda. The hotel has its own shuttle service from the Ash River Visitor Center, or you can hire another company to bring you there.