Camping options near Orr, Minnesota include a mix of state park and forest service sites across St. Louis County. The region sits within Minnesota's northern forest ecosystem at elevations ranging from 1,300-1,400 feet, characterized by pine forests, glacial lakes, and seasonal temperature variations. Winter temperatures regularly drop below 0°F, while summer camping conditions remain mild with daytime temperatures typically between 70-85°F.
What to do
Lake activities: Side Lake Campground at McCarthy Beach State Park offers excellent opportunities for swimming and paddling. "The sand was so nice and the area was very well kept up! So many tables and spots to sit," notes Megan G. about the swimming beach.
Wildlife viewing: Listen for distinctive loon calls at McCarthy Beach State Park. Christine T. shares, "Nothing says Minnesota like the call of the Loon and that's what greeted me upon arrival at my site!"
Trail exploration: Several hiking paths connect the lakes in the region. Lindsay N. mentions, "The lakeside trail was very pretty!" regarding her experience at McCarthy Beach State Park.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Button Box Lake Campground offers a truly disconnected experience. Jim F. appreciates 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."
Beach quality: Visitors consistently praise the beaches at McCarthy Beach State Park, with Christina W. noting it has a "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."
Northern lights viewing: The dark skies in this region provide excellent stargazing opportunities. Christina W. mentions McCarthy Beach State Park is "the best place that I have seen the northern lights."
What you should know
Water concerns: Some campgrounds experience periodic water quality issues. Camp S. notes at McCarthy Beach State Park 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."
Rustic accommodations: Bass Lake County Park offers primitive camping options. Laura J G. clarifies it's "Definitely not for campers or rvs. Perfect for tents, backpackers, and a couple sites are good for Rooftop tents."
Firewood availability: Not all campgrounds sell firewood on-site. Lindsay N. reports, "The only bummer was that the camp office was closed when I arrived at 5pm so I couldn't buy firewood."
Tips for camping with families
Beach accessibility: McCarthy Beach State Park provides excellent facilities for families with children. Janet R. explains the beach has "crystal clear water, shallow depths for kids and family swimming... and overall terrific accessibility for folks of all kinds, including families with young kids."
Group site option: For larger family gatherings, consider the group campsite at McCarthy Beach State Park. Janet R. recommends, "the Group campsite, which is located in between the beach and the boat access on Sturgeon Lake, is probably the best camping option in the park, with its own indoor shelter and tent sites for groups up to 40."
Site selection: Some campgrounds offer varying levels of privacy. Camp S. advises at McCarthy Beach State Park, "Electric loop was tight and some sites had minimal privacy. The non electric sites were much more private."
