Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
McCarthy Beach
Overview
McCarthy Beach State Park is a premier destination in Northern Minnesota, renowned for its expansive sandy shoreline along Sturgeon Lake. Established to protect the scenic beauty of the Sturgeon Lake chain, the park offers a quintessential Northwoods escape. Travelers often visit for the clear water and the peaceful atmosphere that defines the region, making it a standout choice for those exploring the Iron Range. It serves as a serene woodland retreat for those who appreciate natural beauty and quiet nights under the stars.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the heart of the Sturgeon Lake chain, the park is located roughly 20 miles north of the city of Hibbing. The landscape is characterized by rolling glacial hills and dense forests of majestic red pines and white birches. The proximity to Side Lake provides easy access to a series of interconnected lakes, offering a vast aquatic playground. This unique geography allows RVers to explore diverse shoreline habitats and find secluded spots for wildlife viewing throughout the year.
Amenities & Park Features
The Side Lake Campground provides electric RV sites that cater to modern travelers looking for a mix of comfort and wilderness. The park infrastructure includes the following features:
- Seasonal restrooms and hot showers
- A reliable sanitary dump station
- Multiple boat launches and fishing piers
- Spacious picnic areas with heavy-duty fire rings
These facilities ensure that while you are deep in the woods, your basic needs are well-covered for a comfortable stay.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the famous swimming beach, visitors can explore over 18 miles of multi-use hiking trails, including paths that wind around the scenic Beatrice Lake. The Taconite State Trail passes nearby, providing miles of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and even snowmobiling in the winter months. For a cultural detour, the Minnesota Discovery Center in Chisholm offers a deep dive into the local heritage. Fishing for walleye and northern pike remains a top draw for anglers on the lake chain.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for families with children who will appreciate the shallow, sandy swimming areas and safe playground facilities. It is also a perfect match for water sports enthusiasts looking to spend their days fishing, kayaking, or paddling through the interconnected lake system. If you value a classic, quiet camping experience surrounded by mature timber and clean water, this park is a must-visit for your next Minnesota RV road trip through the northern forest.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
K Dedolph
Took a stroll down to the beach and when we got back the vehicle wouldn't start, so we didn't get to explore much here. I highly recommend not having vehicle issues at this park. Nothing near by and took over 6 hours to get the tow truck driver to come thanks to insurance. Not to mention it was raining.
Wyatt W. Penke
Wonderfull scenic "up north" state park. This park has numerous lakes and campgrounds to enjoy. It has likely the best spectacular beach and sandy lakeshore it the state park system. The day use area is huge. The tall majestic pines really make it memorable. Has a boat accesses and very nice campground. And there are some nice trails too.
Jon Morrison
Went here last summer. Beach was beautiful. Great for kids, shallow for a long ways out so very safe. Campground is nice. Hiking trails are good as well.
Elizabeth Lewis
Quaint, you will have neighbors. Is located directly between two lakes, great for fishing (including a cleaning house), and suited for everything you could need out of a camping trip. Also connected to various hiking trails which are fairly gentle and partially along the water.
Nova Emmel
One of the last nice days of fall & this gorgeous beach was empty for at least a half hour! This would be a excellent beach for everyone, especially children, seniors, and non-swimmers. The water level is shallow and the sandy bottom goes for a long way without any weeds. Firepits and or grills are at the picnic tables. Trees along bank provide some shade if you need it.