Small Lake with Swimming Dock

Red Lake Vacation Rentals

Red Lake

Show on map
Red Lake
Show on map

Why Rent On Red Lake

Red Lake, situated in the heart of northern Minnesota, is a paradise for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and family travelers alike. This expansive lake, renowned for its legendary fishing, offers guided trips where local experts guide you to the best spots to catch walleye, northern pike, and crappie. The scenic lakeside views, with tall pines and calm shores, create a serene backdrop for your angling adventures.

Beyond fishing, the area is rich in outdoor activities. Explore the Red Lake Wildlife Management Area through hiking trails and scenic drives, or venture into the nearby Big Bog State Recreation Area, featuring the largest and most diversely patterned peatland in the United States. For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the historic Norris Camp provides a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.

Nearby, the town of Baudette offers local entertainment, including downtown events and a cozy cinema. The Upper Red Lake Area also invites ATV and OHV enthusiasts with its extensive public lands, perfect for off-highway riding, sightseeing, and berry picking. Whether you’re seeking thrill, tranquility, or family fun, Red Lake’s diverse offerings make it an unforgettable destination.

Best time to go
Visit Red Lake in late summer, particularly August, when the golden sun casts shimmering reflections over the water. Enjoy tranquil fishing, vibrant sunsets, and fewer crowds, as the season's warmth invites leisurely exploration and an unhurried connection with nature.
Water Quality
Red Lake in Minnesota exhibits a deep blue water color with ultra-clear water clarity.
Surface area (mi)
714.58
Max depth (ft)
35.1
Elevation (ft)
1397.64
Shoreline length (mi)
132.04

Popular activities

  • Fishing
pencil

Information not accurate?

Help us improve by making a suggestion.

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Red Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, swimming is not explicitly allowed in all areas of Red Lake, Minnesota. Some streams in the Red Lake watershed have high levels of E. coli bacteria, making them unsafe for contact recreation like swimming.

  • Red Lake is a popular destination because of its legendary fishing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy guided fishing trips for walleye, northern pike, and crappie, and take in the scenic lakeside views. The area also offers hiking trails, cultural sites like the historic Norris Camp, and local entertainment options.

  • For the 2025 open water season on Upper Red Lake in Minnesota, the walleye bag limit is five fish, with only one walleye allowed to be over 17 inches. This regulation focuses angler harvest on abundant immature fish under 17 inches to maintain the ideal range of female spawning walleye. The overall harvest is also kept within agreed-upon levels.

  • The Kinsmen (Keesic) Beach at Red Lake is best for families. It is a family-friendly sandy beach with restrooms and change rooms, and it is close to other amenities. This beach is also minutes from a campground, making it convenient for family outings.

  • The closest towns to Red Lake, Minnesota, are Little Rock and Redby, which are approximately 4.38 and 4.82 miles away, respectively. Little Rock is to the west, while Redby is to the east of Red Lake.