Garden Island State Recreation Area in Minnesota

Garden Island State Recreation Area sits on an island in Minnesota's Lake of the Woods, accessible by boat most of the year and by snowmobile in winter. The uninhabited island draws fishers, hikers, and park-completion enthusiasts. There's a picnic area and shelter—though Atlas Obscura notes the emergency phone is unreliable. One important detail: the lake borders Canada, so visitors need a passport and must report when crossing.

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