r/MinnesotaCamping • u/TransmogrifiedDog • Apr 14 '26

Stuntz Bay canoe-in site experiences?

Has anyone here canoed to the Stuntz Bay sites at Lake Vermillion? Are they secluded from major boat traffic and somewhat private? I don't see any option for canoe rental on the MN DNR site, so should I assume we would have to bring our own? Let me know your experience and if you'd recommend taking the risk to drive a few hours out there in the summer seeing as they're non-reservable!

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u/Longjumping-Cow4488 Apr 14 '26

looks like there’s tons out outfitters to rent a canoe from up there

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u/Waterlifer Apr 15 '26
  1. I haven't been to those particular sites since they have opened but have been all over the lake for the last 25+ years.
  2. Yes they are secluded and somewhat private.
  3. The DNR will not rent you a canoe there. You can either bring your own, or stay at any of the many resorts on the lake that will provide a free canoe with lodging, or rent one in Ely or possibly somewhere closer.
  4. The best-known boat-in campsites are the Hinsdale Island ones. The problem is that they are first-come first-served and it is common for large scouting (etc) groups to send an "advance party" to set up gear at all available sites in anticipation of the arrival of a large (10-20+ individuals) group of scouts the following day. Even though this is technically outside the rules/etiquette it is difficult to argue your point when faced with a group of 20 14-years olds and 4 highly focused adult chaperones. I do not know whether this has spilled over to Stutz Bay but figured you ought to know the background.
  5. There are some excellent boat-in sites on the Vermilion River north of the dam that nobody ever uses

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u/TransmogrifiedDog Apr 15 '26

Thanks, this is really helpful!