Three Island Park
Three Island Park was deeded to Beltrami County in 1967 from the State of Minnesota. This day-use facility is located approximately 12 miles north of Bemidji on Three Island Lake and is 2,915 acres in size.
The scenic Turtle River flows from the mouth of Three Island Lake providing spectacular views, rolling terrain, a large diversity of plants and animals, and multiple recreational opportunities. At this confluence, is the major hub of the park with various trails and amenities. This location is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places as an archeological site.
Hours: Sunrise to sunset.
Summer Trails: With an objective of increasing recreation throughout the year, the NRM Department has opened these trails to a number of other, non-motorized activities during spring, summer, and fall. Horseback riding, running, hunter walking, and sightseeing to name a few. Horseback riders should take extreme caution when riding in wetland areas. Areas between trail marker 38 and 9 are very marshy and riding in this area is highly discouraged.
Three trailhead locations provide quick access to the trail system. Two of which can be found along Three Island Road, and the other north of County Highway 22 (Island View Road NE). Each trailhead has a gravel parking lot, vault toilet, and hand pump well.
Winter Trails: Over 28 kilometers of cross-country ski trails and 7 miles of snowmobile trails can be found in Three Island Park. Grooming and general trail-maintenance is done by the Bemidji Area Cross Country Ski Club (BACCSC) and the North Country Snowmobile Club on behalf of Beltrami County through the Minnesota DNR, Grant-In-Aid program. A 2.12-mile snowshoeing trail is also available with access at the shelter or along Three Island Road.
The gold and orange trails, at the north trailheads, are open to multi-use winter activities. These groomed trails allow skiing, biking, snowshoeing, walking, running, or any other non-motorized activity of your choosing. Dogs are only allowed on the Gold and Orange trail.
Facilities: The shelter building is open from December 1 through March 31 as a warming house for recreational users. From April 1 through November 30, the shelter is available for rent. If you are interested, please contact us and fill out the following Shelter Permit. The shelter is equipped with a wood stove and picnic tables (no electricity onsite).
Amenities: A vault toilet and hand pump well are available at each trailhead. Picnic tables are available in the shelter area. Public boat access to Three Island Lake, complete with dock and parking area is provided via Three Island Road. Winter access to Three Island Lake is not plowed, but is accessible with snowmobile or ATV.