McCarthy Beach State Park encompasses two campgrounds: Side Lake and Beatrice Lake, with 30 rustic sites at the latter located 6 miles away on a backcountry dirt road. These northern Minnesota camping areas sit at approximately 1,400 feet elevation in the George Washington State Forest, where summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter camping is available at McCarthy Beach, though amenities are reduced and access becomes more challenging with seasonal road maintenance.
What to do
Kayaking on connected lakes: The unique geography at McCarthy Beach State Park allows paddlers to explore multiple waterways from a single launch point. "If it is too windy on one lake, just walk across to the other one," notes Christina W. who appreciates the options between Side Lake and Sturgeon Lake.
Northern lights viewing: The dark skies and northern latitude make this area excellent for aurora watching during late summer and early autumn. "This is also the best place that I have seen the northern lights," reports Christina W. about McCarthy Beach State Park, making it worth planning overnight stays during periods of solar activity.
Frisbee golf at lakeside parks: Sherwood Forest Campground offers an on-site disc golf course overlooking the water. Frank G. notes about a similar nearby recreation area, "Frisbee golf is on site. The campground is surrounded by forest, so wild animals can and do appear."
Biking on the Mesabi Trail: Access this paved regional trail system directly from camping areas for day trips. "It not only has full hook-ups and overlooks a lake, but is right on the Mesabi Bike Trail," explains Cindy B. about Sherwood Forest Campground, making it convenient for cyclists.
What campers like
Fall camping solitude: Autumn provides significantly quieter camping experiences with fewer neighbors. "We camped here in the fall and were the only people in the campground," reports Jen A. about Side Lake Campground, highlighting the seasonal advantage for those seeking privacy.
Clean, accessible swimming areas: Shallow beach entry points make water access easier for all abilities. Lindsay N. observed at Side Lake, "The site was lovely! I stayed at #48 and it was nice and level... The lakeside trail was very pretty!"
Wildlife encounters: Many campers report hearing and seeing native animals from their sites. "Nothing says Minnesota like the call of the Loon and that's what greeted me upon arrival at my site!" writes Christine T. about the ambient natural sounds at McCarthy Beach.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes offer various fish species without needing to relocate camp. "We were right on side lake. Nice beach at McCarthy. Good fishing," Tara A. shares about her experience at Beatrice Lake Campground, which provides both shore and boat fishing access.
What you should know
Seasonal water conditions: Some campgrounds experience periodic water quality issues requiring extra planning. Camp S. noted at McCarthy Beach, "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."
Site privacy varies significantly: Wooded sites offer more seclusion than open areas. Stephanie H. observed at West Two River, "Campground was great, had beautiful views and very large sites. Lots of trees and couldn't even see the neighbors!"
Construction worker occupation: Some campgrounds primarily serve long-term working residents rather than recreational campers. Allen B. commented about Iron Trail RV Park, "Average site. Economical. Lots of construction workers living here."
Maintenance inconsistencies: Facility upkeep varies widely between campgrounds. Michelle K. reported at Stubler Beach, "There's no one on site that maintain sites or park. Trash is over filling in all trash cans."
Tips for camping with families
Beach accessibility with children: The shallow entry points at many lakes accommodate young swimmers. Megan G. shares about Side Lake, "the sand was so nice and the area was very well kept up! so many tables and spots to sit."
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play structures near campsites. "Direct access to a great beach, plenty of space to safely roam, and a park to play in," notes Cassandra F. about Eveleth Veterans Park Campground.
Group camping options: For family reunions or large gatherings, dedicated group sites provide enhanced facilities. Janet R. explains about McCarthy Beach's Sturgeon Lake Group Site, "The group campsite has a nice log building for group gatherings, plus plenty of space for tents to accommodate up to fifty people."
Naturalist programs: Educational activities run seasonally at state park locations. Janet R. mentions, "There are 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."
Tips from RVers
Water access points: RVers should note where potable water is available since full hookups aren't universal. Frank G. advises about West 40 RV Park, "There are no water hookups per site, but there are a few water spigots around the grounds to fill fresh water tanks."
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for proper RV setup. Frank G. notes, "Leveling took me a bit, but I found just the right angle to jack up the front of my RV for leveling."
Off-season availability: RV camping extends beyond peak summer months at some locations. Paul S. mentions West 40 RV Park, "Went over Labor Day. Owners were great and really helpful. Close to the off-road vehicle park. Definitely camping here again next summer!"
Cell service for connectivity: Most campgrounds maintain adequate coverage for essential communications. Frank G. reports, "We had strong service on T-mobile and Verizon, so we used our hotspots for media connectivity."
