Red Lake Indian Reservation: A Unique and Historic Tribal Land

Located in north-central Minnesota, the Red Lake Indian Reservation is a significant cultural and historical site for the federally recognized Red Lake Band of Chippewa. As the only 'closed reservation' in Minnesota, this tribal land holds immense importance to its inhabitants.

The reservation spans across parts of nine counties, covering an area of 1,260.3 square miles (3,264 km2) or approximately 806,600 acres. The majority of the reservation is situated in Beltrami and Clearwater counties, with smaller sections scattered throughout other counties such as Lake of the Woods, Koochiching, Roseau, Pennington, Marshall, Red Lake, and Polk.

One of the most notable features of the Red Lake Indian Reservation is its unique geography. The second-largest section of the reservation lies in the Northwest Angle of Lake of the Woods County, near the Canada–United States border. This region is significantly farther north than the main reservation area, providing a distinct cultural landscape for its inhabitants.

The reservation's population was recorded at 5,506 individuals during the 2020 census. Despite being a relatively small community, the Red Lake Indian Reservation plays a vital role in preserving the culture and traditions of the Ojibwe people.

In conclusion, the Red Lake Indian Reservation is an extraordinary example of tribal land ownership and management. As the only closed reservation in Minnesota, it serves as a testament to the importance of preserving cultural heritage and community identity.

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