10 Best Off-the-Grid Locations to Tow Your Boat
For boaters seeking tranquility, adventure, and a deeper connection with nature, off-the-grid locations offer a perfect escape. These remote spots, free from crowds and modern distractions, provide stunning landscapes, calm waters, and a chance to explore untouched environments. Towing your boat to these isolated paradises can open up a whole new level of boating and adventure.
Here’s a guide to 10 of the best off-the-grid boating destinations, covering essential details like accessibility, costs, and nearby facilities.
1. Elephant Butte Lake, New Mexico
- Location: 5 hours south of Albuquerque
- Why Go: Elephant Butte Lake, with over 40 miles of water, offers an off-the-grid boating experience combined with the beauty of New Mexico’s rugged desert. Boaters can explore hidden coves, fish, or simply enjoy the vast open waters.
- Boat Ramp: Public access
- Cost: State park fees ($5–$10/day)
- Camping/Facilities: RV and tent camping options are available; however, the remote areas of the lake provide a true wilderness experience.
2. Lake Powell, Utah/Arizona
- Location: On the border between Utah and Arizona
- Why Go: Surrounded by red rock canyons, Lake Powell is an off-the-grid boater’s dream. Though some areas see tourists, its 2,000 miles of shoreline offer plenty of isolated spots to drop anchor. The vibrant blue waters contrast beautifully with the desert landscapes.
- Boat Ramp: Wahweap Marina and others (fees apply)
- Cost: National park entry fee ($30 for a 7-day pass)
- Camping/Facilities: Primitive beach camping is available with no extra cost. However, bring supplies, as services are limited once you leave the main marina areas.
3. Lake Ainsworth, Minnesota
- Location: 5 hours northwest of Minneapolis
- Why Go: For those looking to explore the northern woods, Lake Ainsworth provides serene waters with no development along its shores. Wildlife sightings, including loons and deer, are common, making this an excellent spot for nature lovers.
- Boat Ramp: Free public access
- Cost: No fees
- Camping/Facilities: Completely off-the-grid, this location offers no amenities or services. Prepare for dispersed camping in the surrounding forests.
4. The Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
- Location: Lake Superior, northern Wisconsin
- Why Go: Tow your boat to this incredible archipelago in Lake Superior. With 21 islands to explore, you’ll find quiet coves, untouched beaches, and some of the most pristine water in the U.S. This location is ideal for kayaks and small powerboats.
- Boat Ramp: Public marina (Bayfield)
- Cost: $5 per boat landing permit
- Camping/Facilities: The islands are part of a national park, offering primitive campsites at reasonable rates (around $15/night).
5. Devils River, Texas
- Location: Southwest Texas
- Why Go: The Devils River, known for its crystal-clear water and rugged beauty, is one of the most secluded river destinations in Texas. The stretch offers paddling, fishing, and breathtaking canyon views. However, boaters should be prepared for rugged conditions.
- Boat Ramp: Baker’s Crossing (remote access)
- Cost: Free
- Camping/Facilities: No facilities exist, so self-contained camping is a must. Permits required for access ($10 per person).
6. Rainy Lake, Minnesota/Ontario
- Location: U.S.-Canada border
- Why Go: Straddling the border between Minnesota and Ontario, Rainy Lake offers an off-the-grid escape with 2,200 islands, uninhabited shores, and plenty of fishing opportunities. It’s an ideal location for those seeking isolation while enjoying large, open water.
- Boat Ramp: Access from several marinas and public launches
- Cost: Free (in the U.S.); Canadian side requires park fees ($5/day)
- Camping/Facilities: Most of the islands are undeveloped, allowing boaters to camp wherever they can pull up onshore.
7. Aleutian Islands, Alaska
- Location: Southwest of mainland Alaska
- Why Go: For true isolation, the Aleutian Islands off the coast of Alaska offer boaters a rare opportunity to explore volcanic landscapes, spot diverse wildlife, and experience some of the most untouched environments on Earth.
- Boat Ramp: No formal ramps; launch via beach or from small villages
- Cost: Varies; permits required for protected areas
- Camping/Facilities: Remote and extreme—boaters must be entirely self-sufficient, with no services available.
8. Blackwater River, Florida
- Location: Northwestern Florida
- Why Go: Known for its tea-colored waters and shaded forest surroundings, Blackwater River offers a peaceful, remote boating destination in Florida. It’s one of the last free-flowing rivers in the state, making it a natural wonder to explore.
- Boat Ramp: Blackwater State Park ($3 fee)
- Cost: State park fees ($4–$5 entry)
- Camping/Facilities: Primitive camping spots along the riverbank provide a rustic, off-the-grid experience.
9. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
- Location: Upper Peninsula, Michigan
- Why Go: The dramatic cliffs of Pictured Rocks provide an awe-inspiring backdrop for boaters looking for solitude on the Great Lakes. While some areas are popular, there are secluded spots perfect for kayaking or small boat cruising.
- Boat Ramp: Munising Public Boat Ramp
- Cost: Free to launch, no park entry fee
- Camping/Facilities: Some beach camping is allowed with permits. Expect no facilities or services away from main park areas.
10. Great Dismal Swamp, Virginia/North Carolina
- Location: Southeast Virginia and northeast North Carolina
- Why Go: If you’re looking for a truly eerie, quiet, and unique boating location, the Great Dismal Swamp is a perfect choice. Known for its cypress trees, tea-colored waters, and wildlife, this swamp provides a distinct off-the-grid experience.
- Boat Ramp: Public ramps at several access points
- Cost: Free
- Camping/Facilities: No official campsites—dispersed camping and overnight boating are the only options.
Tips for Off-the-Grid Boating:
- Prepare for Emergencies – Off-the-grid locations often have little to no cell service, so be sure to bring emergency communication devices.
- Pack Supplies – Many of these locations lack nearby stores or services, so make sure you have ample food, water, fuel, and first aid supplies.
- Check Local Regulations – Some areas require permits for boating or camping, so research beforehand to avoid fines.
Conclusion:
Exploring off-the-grid boating destinations can be one of the most rewarding experiences for adventurous souls. These remote locations offer pristine landscapes, solitude, and a chance to escape the hustle of modern life. However, proper planning and preparation are crucial to ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip. So pack your gear, hitch your boat, and head out to one of these incredible destinations for an unforgettable boating adventure!
Happy Boating!
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Read Personal Watercraft (PWC) Maintenance Guide: Tips, Costs, Specs until we meet in the next article.