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The Chisholm, Minnesota area features several established campgrounds that cater to both tent and RV camping experiences. Iron Trail RV Park and Campground operates from May through November within city limits, while McCarthy Beach State Park's Side Lake Campground, located approximately 15 miles north of Chisholm, offers a more natural setting with access to two lakes. The region's mixed-use campgrounds range from rustic forest sites to developed facilities with full hookups, picnic areas, and shower facilities. Most camping areas provide fire rings and picnic tables, with several locations featuring direct lake access for fishing, boating, and swimming activities.
Camping seasons in northern Minnesota generally run from May through October, with several campgrounds in the Chisholm area closing after the first snowfall. McCarthy Beach State Park maintains water and electric hookups during the main season, though water systems may occasionally experience service interruptions. Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends and holidays, particularly for lakeside sites which tend to fill quickly. The region experiences cool springs, warm summers with occasional storms, and early fall color changes that attract visitors in September. Most campgrounds offer varying levels of amenities from basic pit toilets to modern shower facilities. One camper noted, "Located just outside Hibbing and Chisholm, this campground is on Side Lake and Sturgeon Lake. If it is too windy on one lake, just walk across to the other one."
Waterfront camping areas receive consistent praise from visitors, with lakes being the centerpiece of the camping experience in this region. West Two River Campground earned high marks from campers for its secluded, wooded sites and water recreation opportunities. A review described it as having "beautiful views and very large sites. Lots of trees and couldn't even see the neighbors!" Several developed campgrounds provide both swimming beaches and boat access, making them popular with families. The Mesaba Cooperative Park offers a distinct cultural experience with its Finnish heritage and private lake. McCarthy Beach State Park stands out for its expansive beach with shallow, clear water that appeals to families with children. Campers frequently mention wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly loons calling across the lakes in the evening, as a highlight of overnight stays in the area.
"Located just outside Hibbing and Chisholm, this campground is on Side Lake and Sturgeon Lake. If it is too windy on one lake, just walk across to the other one."
"Nothing says Minnesota like the call of the Loon and that’s what greeted me upon arrival at my site! This site is lovely—water and easy to access to water sports on either Sturgeon or Side Lake."
from $24 - $34 / night
Check Availability"Three hours from my house, as the crow flies, I found myself visiting Minnesota's iron range."
"My brother had a dj show in a town near by so we camped out here for the weekend with friends. Went tubbing and only lost one cooler the river soon as we went in lol! Still was a great time!"
"The park has a beautiful private lake with swimming beach, a few cabins available for rental, plenty of space for tent camping."
from $20 - $27 / night
Check Availability"Can be a bit loud during the day on the weekends with the OHV vehicles pulling through but quiet at night and incredible views of the lake. Clean. Large spots not stacked on top of each other."
"With in walking distance from Main Street."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"This review is for the group campsite at McCarthy Beach State Park, which is the only camping spot on Sturgeon lake, and separate from the main state park campground which is located on nearby Side Lake"
from $75 / night
Check Availability"Direct access to A great beach, plenty of space to safely roam, and a park to play in."
"Nice beach fun lake to boat on. Sites are good sized not too crowded. Nice showers."
"Close to the off road vehicle park. Definitely camping here again next summer!"
TravelerMost people know about the sugar sand beaches on both lakes, but the real treasures are the hiking trails! The campsites are generous. Some are tricky for bigger rigs. Plenty of vegetation between sites compared to most campgrounds. Lots t o see and do! Paddle boards, kayaks, boats, swimming, fishing piers…a local shop for necessities…within walking distance. The scenery is lovely.
GuideLong gravel road but easily drivable. Very buggy this time of year next to water but bug spray helps. Vault toilet. Quiet. No trash bins.
GuideThis a small campground on the Mississippi River. Sitting outside you really hear the Hwy noise. It’s a beautiful spot.
TravelerEasy drive in pulling a 21’ trailer. We came in on a Thursday and were the only people here. Lots of flies and mosquitoes, but that is the only negative.
TravelerWe took a chance on this campground. It was a great option. Driving a dually w a truck camper. Road in was ok - few washout spots that can be avoided. Campground was clean and plenty of spots open midday on a Saturday in summer. Only two negatives - the QR codes to pay via rec.gov are missing from most sites. Most sites are listed in rec.gov as first come first served yet only a few have this signage (it’s been removed from many sites). We went to check with camp host but he was…let’s just say not available for questions. Otherwise a nice campground with sites in the woods on one row and a small lake on the other. Really clean pit toilets and well tended sites. It is clearly well cared for. Good signage off the highway too.
TravelerThis is a lovely campground. If youre looking for a family getaway its nice here. From my site the showers/toilets with dish washing sinks were right around the corner as well as the outhouse. The beach is large and has a beautiful view at sunset. This site is also close to a landing and the beach trail. The trails are well groomed and maintained with signs every so often. The sites are average size. They have picnic tables and fire pits.
Lots of wildlife here. We've seen a fox, just missed a big black bear, birds, and snapping turtles. The lake is quite large and has good fishing from the dock.
We camped on July 1st. The campground was not all the way full but definitely busy with the kiddos.
ScoutThe grounds were nice, bathroom clean and stocked. The sites are very open. There is zero trees or brush between you and you neighbors. Great if you are going with friends and want to camp nearby. The boat landing is clean and sandy but unfortunately is very shallow so you will need a flat bottom boat or kayak/canoe. Wasn't what I was looking for but still a nice area.
ScoutTook 38, took a left on 2153 and drove until we saw a path to the right. Drove in with a van, low clearance but we made it. Lead to a large space with dug out fire pit. Lots of trees for hammock.
ScoutNice and quiet, friendly atmosphere
Camping near Chisholm, Minnesota offers visitors access to the extensive forests and water features of Minnesota's Iron Range region. The area sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation with a northern continental climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Most Chisholm-area campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October, though weather patterns can create muddy conditions during spring thaw and early-season camping.
Kayaking at Side Lake and Sturgeon Lake: The twin lakes at McCarthy Beach State Park provide versatile paddling options with different wind and water conditions. "If it is too windy on one lake, just walk across to the other one," notes Lindsay N., who appreciated the "nice and level" campsites with lakeside trails.
Frisbee golf at local campgrounds: West Two River campground offers an on-site frisbee golf course among its recreational amenities. The surrounding forest provides natural obstacles and shade during play, with Frank G. noting, "The campground is surrounded by forest, so wild animals can and do appear."
Biking on the Mesabi Trail: Sherwood Forest Campground connects directly to the Mesabi Trail system. Camper Cindy B. reports, "It not only has full hook-ups and overlooks a lake, but is right on the Mesabi Bike Trail. The managers were friendly and helpful."
Northern lights viewing: The rural setting and minimal light pollution create opportunities for aurora viewing. This area has exceptional opportunities for night sky viewing, with one camper at McCarthy Beach State Park noting it's "the best place that I have seen the northern lights."
Privacy between campsites: Wooded sites at several campgrounds provide separation between neighbors. Stephanie H. at West Two River appreciated the natural screening: "Campground was great, had beautiful views and very large sites. Lots of trees and couldn't even see the neighbors!"
Clean, modern facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom and shower buildings. Jen A. noted that even when McCarthy Beach State Park was nearly empty during fall camping, "The office staff was very nice and we really enjoyed the fall colors in the park."
Lake access for multiple water activities: The region's lakes support diverse water recreation. At McCarthy Beach State Park, megan G. reported "the sand was so nice and the area was very well kept up! so many tables and spots to sit."
Spacious campsites: Campgrounds throughout the region typically offer generous site dimensions. Michael B. at Sherwood Forest noted, "Got there after sunset met the host and easily found our campsite. The next morning we awoke to a wonderful view of the lake."
Limited potable water access: Some campgrounds face water quality challenges. Janet R. noted at McCarthy Beach State Park: "There is currently a water issue—testing has found contamination in the campground wells, so there isn't potable water and you have to get drinking water from other locations in the area."
Campground maintenance varies significantly: Quality differs greatly between managed and unmaintained sites. At Stubler Beach, Michelle K. reported, "I found syringes & glass bottles in the fire pit upon arrival. There's house trash scattered around the woods including a queen mattress & tv."
Reservations essential for summer weekends: Popular sites fill quickly, particularly those with lake views. At McCarthy Beach State Park, Camp S. reported, "Electric loop was tight and some sites had minimal privacy. The non electric sites were much more private."
Limited RV services: Few campgrounds offer full hookups or dump stations. Frank G. noted at West Two River: "There are no water hookups per site, but there are a few water spigots around the grounds to fill fresh water tanks... There is no tank dump available."
Shallow swimming areas: Several lakes feature gradual entry points ideal for young swimmers. McCarthy Beach State Park's beach gets high marks as Christine T. notes: "This site is lovely—water and easy access to water sports on either Sturgeon or Side Lake... Great for kids!"
Playground access: Eveleth Veterans Park Campground offers family-friendly facilities. Cassandra F. reports it's "a great place for anyone and is especially great for those with young children. Direct access to a great beach, plenty of space to safely roam, and a park to play in."
Nature programs: Some state parks offer ranger-led activities during peak season. Janet R. noted McCarthy Beach State Park offers "naturalist programs, and regular outdoor performances by local music ensembles too, so overall there is lots to do in a relaxing and fun outdoorsy location."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Area campgrounds provide chances to see and hear native species. Christine T. enthused about McCarthy Beach: "Nothing says Minnesota like the call of the Loon and that's what greeted me upon arrival at my site!"
Limited level sites: Many older campgrounds require effort to position RVs properly. Frank G. at West Two River noted, "Leveling took me a bit, but I found just the right angle to jack up the front of my RV for leveling."
Electric hookup availability: Most developed campgrounds provide electric service, though amperage varies. At West 40 RV Park, Paul S. reported, "Owners were great and really helpful. Close to the off road vehicle park. Definitely camping here again next summer!"
Weather preparation: Spring and fall campers should prepare for temperature swings. Sites can be muddy during spring thaw and after rain. Pack additional leveling blocks and ground protection.
Cultural experiences: Some campgrounds offer unique local heritage interactions. The Mesaba Cooperative Park provides Finnish cultural experiences, with Heidi T. noting it has "a large pavilion with dancehall above and kitchen/dining on the lower level" plus "fun events held at the park including a midsummer festival."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Chisholm Iron Trail Campground located in Minnesota?
Iron Trail RV Park and Campground is located in Chisholm, Minnesota, in the heart of the Mesabi Iron Range. Chisholm is situated in St. Louis County in northeastern Minnesota, approximately 190 miles north of Minneapolis. The area is known for its mining heritage and proximity to the Iron Range. Nearby attractions include the Minnesota Discovery Center and multiple lakes. The campground provides convenient access to the Mesabi Trail, a paved recreational trail that runs through the Iron Range region connecting various communities.
What amenities are available at campgrounds near Chisholm, MN?
Campgrounds near Chisholm offer diverse amenities to enhance your stay. Side Lake Campground — McCarthy Beach State Park features beautiful beaches on both Side Lake and Sturgeon Lake, a modern beach house, picnic areas, and shallow swimming areas perfect for families. Savanna Portage State Park Campground provides access to four lakes with opportunities for fishing, hiking, biking, and nature watching, plus a beach at Loon Lake ideal for families. Many area campgrounds offer electrical hookups, shower facilities, water access for canoeing and kayaking, and hiking trails through Minnesota's northern forests.
How much does it cost to stay at Chisholm campgrounds?
Camping costs around Chisholm vary by facility type and season. At Red Pine Campground, you can expect full hookup sites for travel trailers and RVs at standard private campground rates. Trout Lake Campground offers reduced off-season rates during late fall and winter months when hookups may be limited. Minnesota state parks in the region typically charge $15-30 per night for standard campsites, with additional fees for electrical hookups ($8-10) and reservation fees ($5-10). County parks often provide more budget-friendly options, while some primitive campsites on water trails may be free or have minimal fees.
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