by Erin Huiatt

Family Glamping at Voyageurs Outpost Near Voyageurs National Park

Looking for a unique, family-friendly getaway that blends the great outdoors with modern comforts? Look no further than Voyageurs Outpost in Northern Minnesota! Located just minutes from the stunning Voyageurs National Park, this one-of-a-kind destination offers luxury domes, outdoor adventures, and the perfect setting for unplugging, exploring, and making lifelong memories with your kids.

Why Families Will Love Voyageurs Outpost

Voyageurs Outpost is more than just a place to stay. It’s an experience. Families will love the convenience of staying in a fully furnished luxury dome (hello, glamping dreams!), access to the outdoors without sacrificing comfort, and the proximity to one of the most scenic national parks in the Midwest.

Whether you’re looking to slow down and reconnect or dive into an action-packed nature adventure, this spot has something for everyone.

The Big Dipper Dome: Our Luxury Glamping Stay

We stayed in The Big Dipper, one of the gorgeous domes on-site, and let me just say … WOW!

This dome is perched high above the forest floor, giving you that true treehouse-meets-glamping vibe. Inside, you’ll find:

A full kitchen (yes, you can actually cook your favorite family meals!)
Comfortable beds and a cozy, stylish living area
A private bathroom with hot water and modern fixtures

Outside is where the real magic happens:

A wood-fired hot tub perfect for soaking under the stars
A Blackstone grill and smokeless fire pit which is ideal for grilling up dinner or making s’mores
A large deck overlooking the trees, perfect for card games, family chats, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings
You have access to your own dock if you would like to relax closer to the lake and swim!

This setup makes it super easy to unplug without roughing it. Even your “indoor kids” will feel right at home here.

What Should We Bring?

Although staying at Voyageurs Outpost isn’t your classic tent camping trip, you’re still tucked away in the great outdoors and in a pretty remote location. The nearest full grocery store is about 40 miles away, so you’ll want to make sure you’re well-stocked before you arrive.

Here’s a helpful family packing list to make your stay as stress-free as possible:

Must-Have Essentials:

Groceries, snacks, and drinks (plan meals in advance!)
Sunscreen (you’ll be outdoors a lot)
Bug spray (it’s Northern Minnesota, the mosquitos are serious)
Swimsuits for the hot tub or lake
Toiletries (toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
Comfortable hiking shoes
Outdoor clothing for hiking, exploring, and playing

Fun & Comfort:

Favorite family games or card decks (great for evenings on the deck)
Books or journals (perfect for unplugging)
Small cooler for drinks and snacks while out boating
Flashlights or headlamps (for nighttime exploring)

What’s Already Provided:

No need to pack everything! The Big Dipper Dome is well-stocked with:

A coffee maker
Oven and stove
Full set of dishes, pots, pans, and utensils
Fresh towels and linens
Heating and air conditioning for year-round comfort

The balance of rustic and ready makes Voyageurs Outpost the ideal mix of glamping and convenience, but a little preparation will go a long way in making it a seamless family adventure.

Just Minutes from Voyageurs National Park

One of the best parts? Voyageurs Outpost is located just minutes from Voyageurs National Park, a water-based national park made up of interconnected lakes, islands, and wildlife.

Because it’s a boat-access park, having a plan in place is essential. Thankfully, the owners of Voyageurs Guide Service, who also run the Outpost, are incredibly knowledgeable. While we didn’t take a guided tour this time, they helped us map out our entire visit, even arranging a pontoon boat, ready to go for the whole trip!

They can also assist with fishing excursions, scenic tours, and other custom adventures. Perfect for families new to the area.

Fun Things to Do Near Voyageurs Outpost

Here are just a few family-friendly activities to enjoy during your stay:

Boat through Voyageurs National Park: Cruise among the islands, spot eagles, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a wildlife from the water.
Hike one of the nearby trails: There are tons of hiking trails to pick from.
Go fishing or swimming: The lakes are pristine and perfect for casting a line or taking a dip. You can even swim in Canada!
Stargaze: With almost no light pollution, the night sky views are absolutely breathtaking! Don’t forget to look for the actual Big Dipper while soaking in the hot tub.
Unplug and play: From board games on the deck to roasting marshmallows by the fire, there’s plenty of screen-free fun to be had.

Planning Your Trip

If you’re dreaming of a summer or fall getaway that combines luxury, nature, and adventure, Voyageurs Outpost is it. The attention to detail, peaceful setting, and proximity to one of the country’s most underrated national parks make it a top pick for families who want something different.