McCarthy Beach State Park features two lakes—Side Lake and Sturgeon Lake—separated by a small isthmus. The park contains tall pine forests, shallow beach areas, and hiking trails accessible from the campground. Winter lows in this region often dip below 0°F, while summer temperatures can reach 80°F with high humidity, requiring appropriate camping gear for the conditions.
What to do
Beach activities: McCarthy Beach State Park offers crystal clear water and shallow depths at Sturgeon Lake. "The sand was so nice and the area was very well kept up! so many tables and spots to sit. They had 4 trails we didn't get to go on but were well marked and the staff was very nice," notes megan G..
Fishing: Anglers can access both Side Lake and Sturgeon Lake. "We were right on side lake. Nice beach at McCarthy. Good fishing," reports Tara A., who camped at McCarthy Beach State Park. The lakes offer opportunities to catch northern pike, walleye, and panfish.
Wildlife viewing: The northern Minnesota forests provide habitat for diverse wildlife. "Nothing says Minnesota like the call of the Loon and that's what greeted me upon arrival at my site," shares Christine T. who stayed at McCarthy Beach State Park. Birders can spot loons, eagles, and various forest birds throughout the area.
What campers like
Remote locations: The distance from urban areas creates quiet camping experiences. "Situated by a lake and awesome regional trails, McCarthy Beach is a great weekend trip. Lots of great wildlife and the lake is beautiful to sit and chill by on any evening," states Catherine J. who appreciates the peaceful setting.
Northern lights viewing: The dark skies in this region provide opportunities for astronomical observation. "Love listening to the loons at night and enjoying a campfire among the tall trees of the campground. This is also the best place that I have seen the northern lights," writes Christina W. about McCarthy Beach State Park.
Disconnecting: Some campsites offer true off-grid experiences. "First off, and most appealing to me is the fact that there is no cell service. All 12 campsites are first come first serve and you can't jump a line by going on a website to reserve a spot," explains Jim F. about Button Box Lake Campground.
What you should know
Water issues: Some campgrounds experience 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," notes Camp S. about their stay at McCarthy Beach State Park. Always check current conditions before arrival.
Limited equestrian options: Horse riding facilities near Chisholm are scarce. While equestrian camping isn't available at the nearest campgrounds, trail riding opportunities can be found at Bear Head Lake State Park approximately 50 miles away or at C.J. Ramstad/North Shore State Trail for day use.
Rustic amenities: Expect basic facilities at many area campgrounds. "Vault toilets are clean. Lots of picnic tables and fire pits," reports Laura J G. about Bass Lake County Park, indicating the simple amenities typical of camping in this region.
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: Choose campgrounds with safe swimming areas for children. "The lake is shallow for quite a ways out so it's great for water games and younger swimmers, as well as those who just just love floating around," advises Christina W. about McCarthy Beach State Park.
Site privacy: Request more secluded sites when camping with children. "The non electric sites were much more private. All sites had nice shady trees. It's a very forested park," notes Camp S., providing insight into McCarthy Beach State Park's layout.
Off-season timing: Consider fall camping for quieter experiences. "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," shares Jen A. about Side Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many campgrounds have size restrictions for RVs. "All the sites are back in no pull through sites, generally level however there's a few that are on an angle," warns Jim F. about Button Box Lake Campground, indicating potential challenges for larger vehicles.
Generator rules: Check noise regulations before bringing generators. "RV campers who are drunk and loud, noisy generator's, camp spots are too tight together," complains Rich B. about their experience at Bass Lake County Park, highlighting noise issues that can impact other campers.
Limited hookups: Prepare for mostly non-electric camping. "Located just outside Hibbing and Chisholm, this campground is on Side Lake and Sturgeon Lake," notes Christina W. about McCarthy Beach State Park, which offers limited electric sites with most being rustic.
