Fly & Drive guide
Fly into TVF, drive to Itasca State Park
Your route
TVF
Thief River Falls Regional Airport
Itasca State Park
About 1 h 59 min · 93 mi by car, no stops. Estimate only.
Your arrival plan
01Flights to TVF
Compare fares into Thief River Falls Regional Airport.
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02Car at TVF
Pick up at the airport and drive straight to Itasca State Park. Compare rental companies in one search.
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03Store extra bags
Early arrival or late flight home? Drop luggage nearby and keep the car light for the park.
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04 · First night near Itasca State Park
Sleep close after the drive so day one starts in the park.
04Hotels near Itasca State Park
Compare hotels and lodges on the way in, with free-cancellation filters.
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04Cabins & homes near Itasca State Park
Whole homes and cabins for families or groups who want a kitchen and space.
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Before you land
Reservations
Mississippi Headwaters Lodging and Entry Planning
Daily vehicle permits are required for entry and can be purchased at the gate or online. For the Douglas Lodge or park campgrounds, reservations open 120 days in advance and are highly recommended for summer weekends. Always check the Minnesota DNR website for seasonal facility hours and road maintenance updates.
Official reservation infoBest time to fly in
June – August, September – October
Quick answers
What is the closest airport to Itasca State Park?
Thief River Falls Regional Airport (TVF) is the nearest commercial airport we route from.
How long is the drive from TVF to Itasca State Park?
Roughly 1 h 59 min (about 93 miles) by car, without stops. Times are estimates.
Do I need a reservation to visit Itasca State Park?
Daily vehicle permits are required for entry and can be purchased at the gate or online. For the Douglas Lodge or park campgrounds, reservations open 120 days in advance and are highly recommended for summer weekends. Always check the Minnesota DNR website for seasonal facility hours and road maintenance updates.