McCarthy Beach State Park offers camping between Sturgeon Lake and Side Lake with both electric and non-electric sites. The electric loop sites are positioned closer together while non-electric sites provide more privacy. All sites feature shade from tall pine trees. Campers can access both lakes directly from the campground for fishing, paddling, and swimming. The beach area on Sturgeon Lake has a modern beach house with picnic areas. Button Box Lake Campground provides a more rustic experience with 12 first-come, first-served sites, vault toilets, and hand-pumped water.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Campers at McCarthy Beach State Park can easily launch from either lake shoreline. "We had easy water access for our kayak off the campground loop. And it was easy enough to carry the kayak across to the other lake to explore out there," notes Camp S. at Side Lake Campground.
Wildlife observation: The area lakes provide excellent opportunities for loon watching. "Nothing says Minnesota like the call of the Loon and that's what greeted me upon arrival at my site!" reports Christine T. from McCarthy Beach State Park. The park also offers opportunities to see northern lights during clear nights away from light pollution.
Swimming at the beach: The beach at McCarthy Beach State Park features shallow water appropriate for younger swimmers. "The sand was so nice and the area was very well kept up! So many tables and spots to sit," reports Megan G. The shallow swimming area extends quite far from shore, making it ideal for water games.
What campers like
Multiple lake options: Having two connected lakes provides versatility for outdoor activities. "If it is too windy on one lake, just walk across to the other one," explains Christina W. at McCarthy Beach State Park. This setup allows visitors to choose the best conditions for their planned activities.
Northern lights viewing: The remote location offers dark skies perfect for astronomical viewing. Christina W. notes that McCarthy Beach is "the best place that I have seen the northern lights," making it a destination for night sky enthusiasts seeking equestrian or non-equestrian campgrounds near Biwabik, Minnesota.
Digital disconnection: Button Box Lake Campground offers a true escape from connectivity. "First off, and most appealing to me is the fact that there is no cell service," reports Jim F. The campground's first-come, first-served policy adds to its traditional camping experience.
What you should know
Water issues: McCarthy Beach State Park has experienced periodic water quality problems. "There were temporary problems with the drinking water on the whole campground - couldn't brush teeth with sink water, and had to go to the dump station to fill up from the one safe water spigot," reports Camp S.
Limited services near Button Box: Button Box Lake Campground is significantly removed from amenities. Jim F. notes it's "located north of Grand Rapids Minnesota about 60 miles or 35 miles from Nashwauk Minnesota which is the closest gas station, grocery store or post office."
Campsite privacy variations: Site selection impacts your camping experience at McCarthy Beach. "Electric loop was tight and some sites had minimal privacy. The non electric sites were much more private," explains Camp S. Site #48 is noted as "nice and level" by Lindsay N.
Tips for camping with families
Beach accessibility: The beach area at McCarthy Beach State Park is designed for inclusive access. Janet R. reports, "The beach is amazing with crystal clear water, shallow depths for kids and family swimming, great picnic spots all along the expansive shoreline, new beautiful bath house, and overall terrific accessibility for folks of all kinds, including families with young kids and folks with disabilities as there are great paved walkways and gentle access ramps everywhere."
Group site option: For larger family gatherings, consider the group campsite. "The group campsite, which is located in between the beach and the boat access on Sturgeon Lake, is probably the best camping option in the park, with its own indoor shelter and tent sites for groups up to 40," advises Janet R.
Marked trails: Families with children can enjoy accessible paths. "They had 4 trails we didn't get to go on but were well marked and the staff was very nice!" notes Megan G. The lakeside trail is particularly scenic, with Lindsay N. describing it as "very pretty."
Tips from RVers
Site positioning: RV campers at Button Box Lake should note the campground layout. Jim F. explains, "All the sites are back in no pull through sites, generally level however there's a few that are on an angle." This information is particularly relevant for those seeking horse campgrounds and RV facilities near Biwabik, Minnesota.
Off-season benefits: Fall camping offers a quieter experience. Jen A. reports, "We camped here in the fall and were the only people in the campground. The office staff was very nice and we really enjoyed the fall colors in the park."
Water access considerations: For RVers bringing boats, McCarthy Beach State Park offers multiple launch options. According to Janet R., "There is a public boat access onto the lake just south of the beach area on Sturgeon Lake, and also in the campground which is actually across the isthmus on adjacent Side Lake."
