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The best camping near McCarthy Beach State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next McCarthy Beach adventure.

Discover the serene beauty of McCarthy Beach State Park.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near McCarthy Beach State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near McCarthy Beach State Park

98%
(65)

16 Squared Cabin

2 sites ¡ Lodging160 acres ¡ Nett Lake, MN
Learn more about this land:"Glamp" on 160 acres of private property surrounded by pine forest, a field, and a pond. There are several miles of trails on the property that are perfect for hiking, biking, four wheeling and horseback riding! The trails also connect to several hundred miles of trail systems in the surrounding area. The cabin can be heated by the wood stove during the winter months, so it is a great place to stay for snowmobiling! Inside the cabin there are a wood stove, 2 sets of bunkbeds, a table and chairs, and a counter top with cupboards. Outside, there is an outhouse and a campfire area with a picnic table.
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(150)

Cook's Country Connection

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents120 acres ¡ Cook, MN
This land was homesteaded by my great grandparents in 1900 as part of the Homestead Act of 1862. After losing my store to fire in 2013, I took the leap, and decided to open the farm to the public. I have a menagerie of animals, many rescued or adopted, that love all the attention. My friends' kids love camping in the pasture with the animals and when I saw an ad for Hipcamp, I thought maybe others would want the experience, too!Learn more about this land:Yoga with goats meets camping with alpacas! We offer camping in the small animal pasture of our family petting farm.  (We also offer campsites away from the critters if your not too sure about sharing your space with livestock!). The options are limitless!
from 
$35
 / night
83%
(3)

Into the woods

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents9 acres ¡ Bovey, MN
9 acres on a private lake in Northern MN. ATV trails close. Peace and quiet without the crowds in a campground. We have two dogs, a cat and chickens including a sunrise early crowing rooster who will get you up to start your adventures. Fishing galore on the 1000 lakes in our county. We have an old doc, canoeing and fishing right on our lake. Beautiful sunsets and the joy of being in the deep woods of Northern MN. Lots of fun things to do in Grand Rapids and Hibbing. This site is level on the driveway but not out on the grass. It is close to our house, but we are quiet and not around very much. You pretty much have the place to yourself. 30 amp is close to the house. Toilet, showers and three season porch can be arranged. A Generator will give you closer access to the lake but far from water and septic hook up. Septic is our home septic where you can empty or hook up if you choose to set up close to it.
from 
$30
 / night
100%
(2)

Heitke Acres and Camping

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents80 acres ¡ Leonidas, MN
We live on a beautiful 80 acre parcel of land in the Mesabi Iron Range. Our property is a mix of field, forest, swamp, and creek. We also have a beaver pond where numerous beavers, otters, and other animals have been seen. We regularly see wildlife from our window as well. Our property really is a great central location for multiple outdoor activities such as mountain biking, cross country skiing, downhill skiiing, snowshoeing, fishing, off roading, swimming beaches, and the Mesabi Trail. We are only 5 minutes south of Eveleth and about 10-15 minutes south of Virginia. If you want to have a day trip to Duluth, it is just under an hour! We have free range chickens, so you may hear a morning greeting from our rooster! Feel free to bring chicken treats for your kids and they can feed them all day long. If you camp in the spring, there is a good chance you might be able to cuddle some chicks. This spring we even had a couple of goslings! Come in June and you will be able to pick beautiful wildflower bouquets of buttercups, daisies, iris, and more! If you come in the middle of the summer, plan on bringing some berry buckets with you. You can pick wild raspberries and blueberries throughout the property. Wild raspberries are small, but packed with flavor. If you are really lucky, you might find a little patch of wild strawberries! Our woods are an excellent place to forage for wild, edible, plants and mushrooms. We have found numerous varieties of each on our property. If you are brave enough to camp during a Minnesota winter there is a good chance one of us will be around to take you on our snowshoe trails throughout the property. Last year we were able to pack 3 miles of trail and enjoyed hosting several friends and family out for a 'shoe and hot chocolate. We are close to many lakes and the St Louis River. We have ample room for you to park your boats, rec. vehicles and etc! Our little pocket of the Iron Range is paradise and we love to share it with others. We hope to see you soon!
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(4)

Adventure Awaits

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Angora, MN
After 20
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(2)

Tent Camping getaway

8 sites ¡ Tents40 acres ¡ Sturgeon, MN
Learn more about this land:Looking for a place close to the ATV trail to pitch a tent? Primitive or group campsite(s) available, on our 40 acre property. 6 miles N of the Taconite trail between Hwy 73 and Co Rd 25. Single night stays available Sun-Thurs, 2 night minimum stay required on the weekend. 2 miles of Onsite hiking/biking/ATV riding trails as well as a pond to splash around in. Call/text 218-398-4678
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(252)

Blue Pony Acres

3 sites ¡ Tents6 acres ¡ Eveleth, MN
A while back two artists bought the remaining acreage and buildings from a northern Minnesota dairy farm. Lisa the painter and Art the metal smith always enjoy sharing their beautiful piece of the planet with friends. Welcome to Blue Pony Acres. We want to share the beauty we experience every day with you. Leave your cubicle and the city life for a short respite in the north woods. Bring your kids, your dog, camera, canoe, kayaks, and bikes. Pitch a tent or swing a hammock in mature pines and hardwoods. Enjoy the community campfire while you hear the stars sing, watch the northern lights dance and count the shooting stars. On a clear night you might see satellites pass overhead. Lay your sleeping bag on the ground, snuggle in with hot chocolate and smores and watch the night light show in comfort.After a long day of hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing or photography enjoy a warm outdoor shower and cook in the common space by the campfire. Exercise and walk your leashed dog in the state land adjacent to your campsite.The firewood is free! A private composting toilet, free campsite WIFI, and extra tents are provided if you forget yours. We have three four person spare tents including a red and white Bill Moss canvas wing tent we’ll add to our inventory when it returns from the repair shop. Looks like a “Jetson’s” tent-your kids would love it!We have two campsites “carved out” of the tall pines, however you are welcome to pitch a tent closer to the campfire on the mowed area if you like.We have room for three totally self contained mini-rvs in the mowed area near the campfire, and we encourage you if you are full time van traveling and working on-line to take advantage of our free WIFI. We are 3.5 hours north of Minneapolis, MN., and one hour north of Duluth, MN. The Saint Louis River carry in landing is only 3.2 miles from your site.A 5 mile drive gets you to the Mesabi Trial, over 160 miles of paved hiking and biking trail stretching from the Mississippi River on the west almost to the boundary waters and Ely, MN on the east. Local lakes within a few minute drive have public landings for boat launch and canoe carry in for your boating and fishing enjoyment. The famous Sax-Zim Bog is within a half hour drive and a great place for photographing wildlife, and they have an interpretive center and very nice volunteers to help you identify wildlife. We’re about 5 miles south of the United Sates Hockey Hall of Fame; a great day trip for you and your sports minded children. A few miles further and you’re outside the doors of the Natural Harvest Food Co-op; a great shop for organic foods. Get local fresh food for your evening meal.Sneak into Lisa’s raspberry patch for “desert” or pick some hopps from the back fence in September and take them with you for your next home beer batch. I’m told they’re “Cascade Hopps”. Don’t know, but they have a grapefruit taste. Mmm good!We invite you to join us. Bring your camping gear, including camp cook stove(sometimes we’re under a fire ban). Ask your dog to bring it’s leash, yes we have a leash law. Warm clothes and light clothing as the weather changes. Rain gear. Your favorite bug repellent. Good hiking boots. Don’t forget bikes, canoes, kayaks, cameras, fishing gear, and maybe some band aids. Come to unplug and unwind and enjoy the clean air and sweet smell of the north woods. You might drive in and smell a smoker curing a pork loin or two pineapple chickens.Maybe it’s portabella mushrooms and roasted veggies on the grill for our vegetarian and vegan friends. You never can tell...you might be invited to join us, but...if you can overcome the food temptation you can retire to your site and enjoy the solitude. Come on up North!Learn more about this land:A while back two artists bought the remaining acreage and buildings from a northern Minnesota dairy farm. Lisa the painter and Art the metal smith always enjoy sharing their beautiful piece of the planet with friends. Welcome to Blue Pony Acres. We want to share the beauty we experience every day with you. Leave your cubicle and the city life for a short respite in the north woods. Bring your kids, your dog, camera, canoe, kayaks, and bikes. Pitch a tent or swing a hammock in mature pines and hardwoods. Enjoy your campfire while you hear the stars sing, watch the northern lights dance and count the shooting stars. On a clear night you might see satellites pass overhead. Lay your sleeping bag on the ground, snuggle in with hot chocolate and smores and watch the night light show in comfort.After a long day of hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing or photography enjoy a warm outdoor shower and cook in your private campfire. Exercise and walk your leashed dog in the state land adjacent to your campsite. The firewood is free! A private composting toilet.We have two campsites “carved out” of the tall pines, however you are welcome to pitch a tent closer to your campfire if you like. We are 3.5 hours north of Minneapolis, MN., and one hour north of Duluth, MN. The Saint Louis River carry in landing is only 3.2 miles from your site. A 5 mile drive gets you to the Mesabi Trial, over 160 miles of paved hiking and biking trail stretching from the Mississippi River on the west almost to the boundary waters and Ely, MN on the east. Local lakes within a few minute drive have public landings for boat launch and canoe carry in for your boating and fishing enjoyment. The famous Sax-Zim Bog is within a half hour drive and a great place for photographing wildlife, and they have an interpretive center and very nice volunteers to help you identify wildlife. We’re about 5 miles south of the United Sates Hockey Hall of Fame; a great day trip for you and your sports minded children. A few miles further and you’re outside the doors of the Natural Harvest Food Co-op; a great shop for organic foods. Get local fresh food for your evening meal.We invite you to join us. Bring your camping gear, including camp cook stove (sometimes we’re under a fire ban). Ask your dog to bring it’s leash, yes we have a leash law. Warm clothes and light clothing as the weather changes. Rain gear. Your favorite bug repellent. Good hiking boots. Don’t forget bikes, canoes, kayaks, cameras, fishing gear. Come to unplug, unwind and enjoy the clean air and sweet smell of the north woods. You might drive in and smell a smoker curing a pork loin or two pineapple chickens. Maybe it’s roasted veggies on the grill for our vegetarian and vegan friends. You never can tell...you might be invited to join us, but...if you can overcome the food temptation you can retire to your site and enjoy the solitude. Come on up North!
from 
$35
 / night
100%
(6)

North Haven

10 sites ¡ RVs, Tents22 acres ¡ Mountain Iron, MN
Quiet country living at its best! We are near many lakes with great fishing opportunities (several within 10 miles/10 minutes), hiking, biking (10 minutes away from Redhead Mountain Bike Park and less than 5 minutes from the Mesabi Bike Trail System) and snowmobile trails (less than 4 miles/5 minutes), ski lodge and resorts are within a one-hour drive. We are near big box stores for convenient shopping (they offer order ahead and pick up; no delivery at this time [willing to pick up your orders if prepaid/arranged] ), restaurants (delivery not available but order ahead/pickup is always an option), grocery stores, major pharmacy for convenient medication orders and pickups. Nearby to several local vets and dog boarding is one road over if you are heading out for a vacation. Our local dog groomer information and recommendation upon request. We offer sites with some sun as well as sites with some shade available (FCFS). We live on site and are often available for questions or recommendations, but we always respect your privacy and want/need to be left alone. Perfect for travelers with pets, big yard to run and play. Limited kennel space, available upon request and reserved; FCFS. Pontoon, SUP, kayak and canoe rentals nearby as well as jet skis and fishing boats. WE are also near some beautiful ski resorts. Fishing guide recommendations upon request. Close to four golf courses and several swimming beaches. Close to main highways but just far enough away for a peaceful night’s sleep with Minnesota wildlife often visiting our backyard; deer, bluebirds, robins and occasionally an eagle. We are also able to accommodate those that travel together, i.e.; more than one RV, trailer, tent...etc.
from 
$25
 / night

Evergreens Wild'rNature RV Camp

4 sites ¡ RVs10 acres ¡ Effie, MN
We have a very serious and also, sad story, to tell you. This land was not so long ago, a Native American reservation. Members of the tribe were offered a new location and, nearly all, moved. However, an Elder, remained. Sadly, when that Elder died naturally, the land became federal property, and was sold to the owner prior to, us.Learn more about this land:As stated in instructions, the Bigfork River is approximately a mile away. The boat landing to it is in Bigfork, behind the bank, 6 miles south. American Falls is just a few miles to your North. As stated, delicious water is available behind the pizza restaurant in Bigfork, with a dumpsite as well. Just south of Bigfork is the Chippewa National Forest w/ many emerald green clear pristine lakes and a Visitor Center in Marcell. Whether going to Voyageurs or The North Shore, true northern wilderness, is here.
from 
$32
 / night

Tamarack Ponds

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Deer River, MN
Welcome to Tamarack Ponds Camping, your gateway to the pristine beauty of Itasca County, Minnesota. Nestled on 40 acres of private land adorned with ancient cedar, ash, and black spruce trees, our campground offers a serene nature retreat. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance, where the melodies of wildlife fill the air, creating a symphony of natural sounds. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, we have you covered with carefully curated camping spots. Two tenting spots equipped with fire pits and cooking grates provide the perfect setting for a cozy evening under the stars. For RV enthusiasts, we offer 1-2 spacious spots complete with 20, 30, and 50-amp electric hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay amid the wilderness. Situated between the charming towns of Cohasset and Deer River, and just minutes from the bustling hub of Grand Rapids, our campground offers easy access to a wealth of outdoor adventures. Explore world-class fishing lakes, traverse ATV trails, or embark on scenic hikes through lush forests—there's something for every outdoor enthusiast to enjoy. Fishermen and women are welcome to park here as their base camp, RV style fish houses are welcome. At Tamarack Ponds Camping, we invite you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with the natural world. Join us for an unforgettable camping experience in the heart of Itasca County.
from 
$20
 / night
Booked 8 times

Pike River Camping

1 site ¡ Tent40 acres ¡ Tower, MN
Learn more about this land:If you love quiet peaceful nights under the stars then get ready to do some secluded camping next to the river. We provide a small boat for anyone that might want to take a ride on the gentle waters. The campsite is primitive but the experience that comes with it is nothing less than fantastic. Wildlife of all sorts and tons of stuff to experience in the area. From Giants ridge to BWCA, Ely shops and the Fortune bay casino, theres always something to check out no matter what the weather!
from 
$45
 / night
100%
(2)

Luna Light Trails

3 sites ¡ Tents20 acres ¡ Makinen, MN
Come walk or bike our emerald aisles! We have five miles of groomed trails that leads through state land to the Mud Hen Creek! Bring your kayak and pole! There are a few beaver lodges and so much wildlife to admire! Trek along Silver Ridge Canyon, don't be surprised by the sudden flight of grouse along this trail! Visit Scout Hill, for a sunny afternoon picnic, the Ceder trees will lead you there. If you hear knocking, you will see Mr. Woodpecker enjoying his lunch on a near by birch tree! Our campsites are nestled underneath a canopy of mixed wood forest. We have birch, poplar, variety of pine, maple, and more! Nearby you will find our newly finished outhouse, complete with a portable shower and natural light. Fire rings at every campsite. You will have access to parking near or next to your site. Plenty of space to spread out and enjoy! Our property features a beautiful variety of trees and plenty of trails thought our land with wildlife that you will see and hear! It might be the hoot of an owl, or the flight of a grouse! You will also hear the "buck wheat" and the "chee-chee" of our guineas calling for each other. Our beautiful forest is our main feature since 95% of our land is wooded, we enjoy the great beauty and majesty of the trees. See if you can find "Prince." This giant is hidden on the northeastern side of our property. His beautiful branches tower over our trails and we have cleared a spot there to rest. His lovely "Princess" is near the back of the main house. She is surrounded by strong pines that stand guard through our long cold winters. Our property extends, via trail, to state land and the Mud Hen Creek. The views are breathtaking! Please come and bring your family and friends! Our campsite proximity would made a great weekend getaway for a retreat event or a family reunion, as well as a quiet romantic weekend! Off site: We have Long Lake public access, 5.8 miles down our road. Mud Hen Lake, Half Moon Lake, Pleasant Lake, Elliot Lake, all with public access, these are just a few that are within a 15 minutes drive. White face Reservoir within range as well as visits to Two Harbors and Duluth! The Range Cities are charming and you could visit several in one day! Some of our favorite places to eat in Virginia are at Kunnari's Market and Cafe. They serve wonderful fresh salads, baked goods and more! The Sugar Shack specialize in wood fire pizza, pastries and coffee! Another amazing local store is F & D Meats! They make their own brats and blueberry wild rice is my favorite! They also have wonderful cuts of meat and all sorts of grilling items. They also have organic and natural products and much, much more! Other wonderful things to do in thisarea is walking or biking the Mesabi Trails, also the Redhead Mt Bike Park is withing 45 minutes. The Soudan Underground Mine will be open summer of 2024! Many local museums, parks and more to discover on the Iron Range! Here at home we raise chickens, ducks and guinea fowl. We also have a Catahola Leaped Dog named Hickory. She had enjoyed roaming our Luna Light Trails on the off season. When I was a child, I lived on a church camp property. This plot of land had a grove of the most beautiful, tall, eucalyptus trees in the neighborhood! These trees were the home to Monk Parakeets. These small green parrots are the only members of the parrot family to build stick nests and to nest colonially. Needless to say, they were very loud, but one of my favorite childhood memories! This little plot on the Minnesota map has been our home for the last three and a half years! We have enjoyed our woods and so will you! Taking reservations for summer 2024!
from 
$38
 / night

The best camping near McCarthy Beach State Park guide

Overview

About

At McCarthy Beach State Park, you’ll never lose sight of the lakes. There’s a chain of ‘em, all connected, making this an adventurer’s playground, especially if you’ve got webbed feet, or like to fish. Paddlers will especially appreciate the hidden coves and peaceful shorelines, and Highways Magazine rated the sandy beach on Sturgeon Lake one of the top beaches in North America. Explore the park’s hiking and biking trails, relax on the shore, and refresh your body and spirit in the cold, clear waters of the beautiful lakes that make this park so special.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your spot, as campsites fill up quickly during peak seasons.
  • Consider visiting during weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Stay flexible with your dates to increase your chances of finding an open site.
  • Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan.

When to go

The best time to visit McCarthy Beach State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and all park facilities are fully operational. However, autumn also offers a stunning display of fall foliage. Winters can be harsh, with some amenities closed, so it's less ideal for a visit.

Know before you go

  • Highway 67 is closed; follow alternative routes provided by the park for access.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for seasonal conditions.
  • Be prepared for limited cell service; plan your route and communications in advance.
  • Remember to pack out all trash and respect the park's natural beauty.
  • For any inquiries, contact the park at 651-296-6157.

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