Several RV parks and campgrounds operate within 30 miles of Chisholm, Minnesota, situated in the state's Iron Range region where mining history shapes the landscape. Seasonal operation from May through October is standard for most sites due to northern Minnesota's cold winters, with temperatures routinely dropping below freezing. Many campgrounds offer access to fishing lakes and regional trail systems that connect to the area's natural amenities.
What to do
Fishing on multiple lakes: Side Lake Campground at McCarthy Beach State Park offers access to both Sturgeon Lake and Side Lake. "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," notes Christina W. The lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities, with local anglers targeting multiple species.
Mountain biking nearby: West 40 RV Park in Gilbert provides close access to off-road recreation. "Went over Labor Day. Owners were great and really helpful. Close to the off road vehicle park. Definitely camping here again next summer!" reports Paul S. The nearby trails offer varying difficulty levels suitable for different experience levels.
Kayaking opportunities: West Two River campground provides water access for paddlers. "The lake is large enough for some long and interesting kayaking, and there are multiple kinds of fish (from bullheads to northern pike)," explains Frank G. Some campgrounds also provide rental equipment for those without their own watercraft.
What campers like
Beach access: McCarthy Beach State Park receives high marks for its swimming areas. "Beautiful beach, with modern beach house and nice picnic area. The lake is shallow for quite a ways out so it's great for water games and younger swimmers," writes Christina W. The gradual depth makes it particularly suitable for families with children.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers appreciate the natural setting and wildlife at Trout Lake Campground. "Nothing says Minnesota like the call of the Loon and that's what greeted me upon arrival at my site!" shares Christine T. about McCarthy Beach. Loons, deer, and other wildlife are commonly spotted throughout the camping season.
Spacious sites: Sherwood Forest Campground in Gilbert provides well-sized camping spots. "Love, love, love this campground! It not only has full hook-ups and overlooks a lake, but is right on the Mesabi Bike Trail," notes Cindy B. Many campers mention the privacy between sites as a positive feature.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds in the region occasionally have water issues. At McCarthy Beach State Park, one reviewer noted: "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."
Limited dump stations: RV sites near Chisholm, Minnesota sometimes lack full hookups. At West Two River, a reviewer mentions: "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." Plan accordingly if traveling in an RV requiring frequent tank servicing.
Seasonal operation: The camping season in this region is limited. "This location cost $44/night for full hookups," reports Melissa B. about Prairie Lake Campground, which operates from May 1 to October 1. Most campgrounds in the area close during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: McCarthy Beach State Park offers family-friendly swimming. "The beach is amazing with crystal clear water, shallow depths for kids and family swimming, great picnic spots all along the expansive shoreline," notes Janet R. The gradual depth makes it safer for younger swimmers.
Playgrounds available: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. At Sherwood Forest Campground, Louis S. mentions it "has a playground for the kids" with a "cool view looking over a nice lake." These features provide recreation options beyond water activities.
Water sports equipment: Several campgrounds offer boat rentals. According to Janet R., "There are canoe rentals available if you don't have a craft of your own" at McCarthy Beach State Park. This allows families to enjoy water activities without transporting their own equipment.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At some campgrounds, finding level ground can require effort. Frank G. notes about West Two River: "Leveling took me a bit, but I found just the right angle to jack up the front of my RV for leveling." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most RV sites in the area.
Hook-up variations: RV camping options near Chisholm vary in amenities. Red Pine Campground (formerly Ogston RV Park) offers "Full hookups and everything worked as expected. Site was gravel and a little un-level, but nothing extreme," according to Sam C. Electric service ranges from 30-amp to 50-amp depending on the campground.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. Frank G. reports about West Two River: "We had strong service on T-mobile and Verizon, so we used our hotspots for media connectivity." This information helps those needing to stay connected while camping.
