An Indian Reservation area surrounds most of the two lakes. Red Lake State forest is located on the eastern end of Upper Red Lake. A small recreational area is located in Waskish off Minnesota State Route 72. for more information contact the Minnesota Tourism Bureau. Fishing, Swimming, Cabin Rentals, Ramps. Birch Lake is 20 miles long and has 65 miles of shoreline lined with ledge rock cliffs and birch trees.
Fishing is spectacular with northern pike, walleye, crappie and blue gill.
The Lake is along the Gun Flint Trail and the boundary waters of the Canoe Area Wilderness. Located in Ely in the Bear Island State Forest. Located in the Chipewwa National Forest, this is the largest resort lake in northern Minnesota. Points of interest include Stoney Point Recreational Area and the Last Chippewa Battle Point. Located off Minnesota State Route 371 in Walker.