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.
What to do
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."
What campers like
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."
What you should know
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."
Tips for camping with families
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!"
Tips from RVers
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."
