If you’re planning a trip to the Lake of the Woods area in Minnesota, you’re in for more than just world-class fishing and beautiful scenery. This region is also famous for its incredible berry picking opportunities. From plump, juicy blueberries to other tasty wild berries, it’s a summer adventure you won’t want to miss
Blueberries: A Local Favorite
Blueberries are the real star of berry picking in the Lake of the Woods area. They grow wild in sandy, sunny spots, often popping up in clearings along old logging trails, roadsides, and throughout the Beltrami Island State Forest. This area is one of the largest state forests in Minnesota, and it’s packed with berry patches waiting to be
The best time to pick wild blueberries is typically mid-July through early August, depending on the weather. A warm spring and plenty of rain usually mean a good berry crop. If you’re lucky enough to be in the area during peak blueberry season, you’ll find bushes loaded with sweet blue gems.
Other Berries You Might Find
Blueberries aren’t the only berries you can pick around Lake of the Woods. You might also find wild raspberries, juneberries (also known as serviceberries), chokecherries,
and even cranberries in some wetter spots later in the season. Each has its own time when it’s best to pick. Wild raspberries usually ripen in July, while chokecherries and cranberries
are often ready in August or September.
A Great Family Activity
Berry picking is more than just gathering food; it’s an experience that lets you slow down and enjoy nature. Many families who visit Lake of the Woods make it a point to spend an afternoon berry picking. Kids love the hunt, and it’s a peaceful way to take in the sights and sounds of the forest. Plus, there’s nothing like tasting a handful of berries you picked yourself.
Precautions to Keep in Mind
Of course, as fun as berry picking is, there are a few things to watch out for.
1. Know Your Berries: Make sure you know what you’re picking. Not every berry you see is safe to eat. If you’re unsure, take a field guide with you or pick with someone who knows the local berries. Never eat anything you can’t positively identify.
2. Dress for the Woods: Wear long pants and a light long-sleeve shirt. This will help protect you from scratches, bugs, and ticks. Don’t forget sturdy shoes, because you might be walking through rough or damp ground.
3. Use Bug Spray: Mosquitoes and ticks can be active in the summer. A good insect repellent makes your adventure a lot more comfortable. When you’re done, check yourself for ticks just to be safe.
4. Watch for Wildlife: The Lake of the Woods area is also home to bears and other wildlife that like berries just as much as you do. While it’s rare to run into trouble, 
5. Respect the Land: Whether you’re picking on public land or near a trail, always take care to leave things as you found them. Don’t pull up plants by the roots and only take what you’ll use.
A Taste of the Northwoods
Once you’ve filled your pails, you can enjoy your berries in all sorts of ways. Eat them fresh, bake them into pies or muffins, or freeze them to take a little bit of Lake of the Woods home with you. Many visitors say there’s something extra special about berries from this area — maybe it’s the clean air, maybe it’s the adventure of picking them, but either way, they taste amazing.
Plan Your Trip
Whether you come to Lake of the Woods to fish, relax at a cabin, or just enjoy the great outdoors, make sure to plan a berry picking outing during your stay if you’re visiting in July or August. It’s a simple pleasure that adds a lot to a summer vacation and gives you a true taste of Minnesota’s Northwoods.
For more information on visiting Lake of the Woods, including places to stay, guides, and other activities, check out LakeoftheWoodsMN.com. Then grab a bucket, bring the family, and head out for a berry good time!
See our Lodging page on our website at: www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging
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