Remote and virtually undeveloped, Garden Island State Recreation Area is the northernmost unit of the Minnesota State Park system. Part of its attraction is the challenge of getting there -- as you leave the south shore of Lake of the Woods, the island is 19 miles away and not yet visible on the horizon. But once you arrive, the island itself will charm you. Its quiet beaches beckon you to stroll along the retreating waves. Birds scamper at the water's edge and dart above you in the air. Fishing boats come into dock for shore lunches, with visitors from near and far enjoying a midday break at the picnic tables. Or you may want to take a bit more time and explore the woods and marshes of the island's interior. Winter offers opportunities too, and snowmobiling across Lake of the Woods may feel like your first Arctic adventure.

Wildlife
Shorebirds of all kinds stop to rest and feed on the sand beaches of this island during their annual migrations. Pelicans, cormorants, gulls and terns are all commonly seen on the sand spit stretching out to the island's eastern tip. Deer, bear, beaver, mink, otter, fox and snowshoe hare have all been observed on the island. Grey wolves have occasionally been seen hunting on the island during the winter months. Several pairs of bald eagles nest there each year.

History
The state recreation area is named Garden Island because people raised food on the island for hundreds of years. Garden Island State Recreation Area was established in 1998, and is a popular picnic spot for sports fishermen.

Landscape
Garden Island is a low, sandy island with beautiful beaches along the eastern tip, where the docks are located. Much of the island is densely wooded, with some marshy areas.