Rollie Johnson Natural and Recreational Area / Big Island on the Whitefish Chain

A rare surviving example of an undisturbed old-growth maple-basswood forest. Trees 150 years old tower up to 100 feet above the forest floor, sheltering a rich assortment of flowering plants unusual this far north in Minnesota. The undisturbed, natural character of Big Island attracts scientists and ecologists who study forest processes and natural systems. Swimming beach, primitive campsites, hiking trails.

Read a story about the major restoration project on this island.