29mi from Warroad · 1 site · Baudette, MNNestled in the heart of Northern Minnesota, this campground offers a unique blend of rich history and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The Lake of the Woods region boasts a fascinating past that dates back to 1688 when Jacques De Noyon became the first European to witness its stunning waters. Archaeological evidence suggests that ancient peoples inhabited this area over 5,000 years ago, possibly even 10,000 years ago, following the retreat of glacial ice.
After De Noyon's arrival, the next significant exploration of the Lake of the Woods occurred in 1732 when Pierre La Verendrye led a group of over 50 men into the region. At that time, northern Minnesota was home to various Indigenous tribes, including the Cree, Monsonis, Assiniboine, and Sioux. The Ojibwe had not yet ventured westward to Lake of the Woods. Unfortunately, La Verendrye's expedition faced tragedy when Father Aulneau and 19 others were killed by a Sioux war party on an island in the lake, an event that has led to the identification of two islands as Massacre Island, each claiming to be the site of this historical event.
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