The Red River and its tributaries have extensive public access opportunities. Some of these are maintained by North Dakota, Minnesota or local communities. Below are resources to help you access the rivers.
Anglers can find a list of Red River shore fishing sites, boat accesses and fish cleaning stations in the Fishing the Red River of the North brochure. The guide also notes which sites provide restrooms and camping.
For boat ramps and shore fishing access on tributaries via state and federal land, explore DNR's Recreation Compass.
Minnesota offers three state water trails that provide paddlers access to the Red and its two largest tributaries – the Otter Tail and Red Lake Rivers.
The water trail pages below include information on paddling and shore fishing public access, along with recommended day trips.