Little John Lake offers a gravel/dirt boat ramp providing access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, with parking for 6 vehicle/trailer spaces.

The ramp serves as the primary access point for paddlers and anglers heading to South Fowl Lake via Royal River and portage routes.

Note that a BWCAW permit is required when traveling through the Boundary Waters, and the lake is infested with spiny waterflea, so anglers should thoroughly drain and dry all equipment before using it in other lakes.