The best camping in McCarthy Beach State Park, MN
Discover the serene beauty of McCarthy Beach State Park.
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next McCarthy Beach State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in McCarthy Beach State Park
Beatrice Lake Campground
1. Beatrice Lake Campground
When the outdoors are calling, head down to McCarthy Beach State Park for hiking on scenic trails, boating and fishing, wintertime skiing, horseback riding, aaaand swimming and relaxing on one of the top 17 beaches in North America
Side Lake Campground
2. Side Lake Campground
Well, what do we have here? Sandy beaches in Minnesota? Hellooooo summer
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near McCarthy Beach State Park
16 Squared Cabin
1. 16 Squared Cabin
98%
(107)
15mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 1 site
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.
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Campfires
Cook's Country Connection
2. Cook's Country Connection
100%
(171)
20mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Cabin O' Pines
3. Cabin O' Pines
100%
(16)
24mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Northern Minnesota Family Fishing Resort
Enjoy all the best of Northern Minnesota at Cabin O Pines. Wake up every morning to hear the sounds of local wildlife, and sit down every night to warm up by the campfire.
While staying at Cabin O’ Pines, enjoy fun beach activities, or rent one of our Cabin O’ Pines marine rentals and get out on the lake. Whatever the occasion, you are sure to have a memorable Northern Minnesota experience.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Blue Pony Acres
4. Blue Pony Acres
99%
(263)
31mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 3 sites
Welcome to Blue Pony Acres. Thirty eight years ago we bought the remaining acreage and buildings from a northern Minnesota dairy farm. We have always enjoyed sharing our beautiful piece of the planet with friends. 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 and enjoy one of our campsites. Bring your kids, your dog, camera, canoe, kayaks, and bikes. Pitch a tent or swing a hammock in the pines. Enjoy your private 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 cook over your private campfire. The firewood is free! Exercise and walk your leashed dog in the state land adjacent to your campsite. A private composting toilet is available at each campsite (we do not have vault toilets),
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 wildlife photography, 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”. 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.
Come on up North!
Come on up North!
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Toilets
Lakeside Wanderers Refuge-Private!
5. Lakeside Wanderers Refuge-Private!
100%
(10)
34mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Enjoy breathtaking views of Pleasant Lake right from your doorstep. The calming sounds of lapping waves and the stunning sunsets will create lasting memories.
Private Sauna: Unwind and rejuvenate in our private sauna, nestled amidst the natural beauty of the surroundings. A perfect way to relax after a day of outdoor activities.
Outdoor Living Space: Take advantage of our spacious outdoor area, perfect for grilling, dining, or simply enjoying the fresh air. A fire pit is also available for cozy evenings under the stars. Wood also provided.
Water Activities: The lake is your playground! Launch your kayak, paddleboard, or simply take a refreshing swim. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to cast a line and reel in the catch of the day.
Boat launch just across the bay and dock available for tying up if you choose to boat in!
Scenic Hiking and Snowmobiling Trails: Lace up your hiking boots, or rev up your snowmobile to explore the nearby trails, offering a chance to connect with nature.
Nearby Attractions: Our location is conveniently close to Virginia and Eveleth where you can explore charming shops, dine in local restaurants, and experience the cultural offerings of the area. Giants Ridge is a popular spot (just a few miles down the road) for 4 wheeling, trails, or skiing!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Luna Light Trails
6. Luna Light Trails
100%
(21)
40mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We have five miles of groomed trails that lead through state land to the Mud Hen Creek! Bring your kayak and pole! By the creek we have a few beaver lodges and so much wildlife to admire! As you 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 cedar trees will lead you there. If you hear knocking, you will see Mr. Woodpecker enjoying his lunch on a nearby birch tree!
Our campsites are nestled underneath a canopy of mixed wood forest. We have birch, poplar, maple, and a variety of pine. Nearby you will find our newly finished outhouse, complete with a portable shower and natural light. You will have access to parking near or next to your site with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy! Our property features a beautiful variety of trees and plenty of trails throughout our land with wildlife you might see or hear. It might be the hoot of an owl or the drum 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.
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 campsites' proximity would create a great weekend getaway for a retreat event or a family reunion, as well as a quiet romantic weekend!
Here at home we raise chickens, ducks, and guinea fowl. We also have a Catahola Leopard dog named Hickory. She enjoys roaming our Luna Light Trails on the off season.
When I was a child, I lived on a church camp property in Uruguay, South America. 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 six years . We have enjoyed our woods and so will you!
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Campfires
Odessa :.
7. Odessa :.
95%
(21)
45mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
I restore neglected properties to a natural state, And provide campers with experiences to promote a love for nature.
Odessa is named after a large port city in the country of Ukraine and a city in West Texas. USA. The land is located in a commercial zone in the small city of Cotton Minnesota. USA.
Learn more about this land:
Next to the Wilbert Cafe & El Toro Lounge, and Speedway gas station in Cotton Minnesota USA.
Odessa, is located in the Central far East section of the Sax-Zim Bog. USA. Near by is a Cafe, Two churches, A Community Center, US Post Office complex. At the Community Center, Post Office complex and Park with child-playground, In the park is a out-house that can be used 24/7, it is open to the public. All within the commercial district of Cotton Minnesota. Also the outhouse has electricity and there is a light ....
Sax -Zim Bog Welcome Center is 12 miles west.
Bog's : Winterberry Bog, Yellow-bellied Bog, and Indian Pipe Bog, are just west on Arkola Road.
Fire wood is free, I have been cutting wood, but is still in short supply and fire banned while dangerous dry conditions persist. We have gotten rain so it is better now.
For you light sleepers staying in a tent, just know none stop traffic off the highway and then the birds started chirping up a storm at 4:30 in the morning.
Odessa is not a commercial campground.
Pets
Campfires
Adventure Awaits
8. Adventure Awaits
100%
(8)
9.2mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
After 20
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Potable water
Tent Camping getaway
9. Tent Camping getaway
100%
(3)
9.2mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Camp 84
10. Camp 84
100%
(1)
11mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 3 sites
Even through the snowy winters. We provide private campsites at Camp 84. We offer 3 separate and secluded tent sites, each with personal vehicle parking. All sites include a designated campfire ring and tenting area. Just a 7-minute drive from downtown Chisholm and the biking trails at the REDHEAD Mountain Bike Park, this is a great spot to crash for the night or hang out for the weekend!
The property has direct access to the Northern Traxx ATV Trail, located just a short drive down Hwy 84. (Ask for directions if you’d like to explore.) Additional parking for utility trailers or extra vehicles may be available in the Collin Sand and Gravel field.
Guests are welcome to wander the property trails at their own discretion. There are no marked trails, but feel free to explore—just be mindful to keep a respectful distance from other sites.
A porta potty is located between Sites 1 and 2 on the other side of the driveway. Small camper vans are welcome, but RVs and camper trailers will not fit.
Message me with any questions—thanks!
—Your camp host, Carson
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Iron Range Growers LLC
11. Iron Range Growers LLC
100%
(2)
17mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This charming hay field, next to the woods, offers a perfect spot for primitive camping. Placed off quiet gravel road. No sirens or crazy highway or train noise up here. located 15 minutes from Lake Vermilion and 5 minutes to Cook MN. Cook has bait, tackle, gas, grocery store, liquor store. The lush grass and wildflowers provide ample space for tents, while towering trees add dappled shade. Enjoy the tranquility, with the rustling leaves and birdsong enhancing the serene ambiance. This rustic retreat promises an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Pets
Campfires
The Long Lake Dome Home
12. The Long Lake Dome Home
18mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 1 site
Soak up the beauty of Long Lake in the woods south of Bigfork, MN, in this unique Geodesic Dome Home. Enjoy the bedroom with a king bed, an open sleeping loft with two full beds, a futon in the main room, and a full bath. This property is located on a hilltop boasting a west-facing lake view with over 300' of lake front and old-growth red pines towering over the cabin. Enjoy the warmth of the fireplace on cooler nights or savor your morning coffee on the private deck or screened porch overlooking the lake.
Secluded cabin on private lakeshore and dock on majestic Long Lake
Wooded yard gives the feel of retreating deep into the forest with views of the lake peeking through, so you are able to enjoy privacy while you delight in the quiet of the beautiful cabin, deck,s and yard!
Steps to the sleeping loft are pretty steep, please watch your step!
30 minutes north on Scenic Highway 7 to Bigfork
Surrounded by State Parks and Forests
Grill provided
Sparkling Clean space
Enjoy a cozy fire in the outdoor fire pit or indoor wood stove
Fully Stocked Kitchen and all linens supplied
Smart TV
Cozy, fully enclosed screen porch so you can enjoy the gorgeous outdoors without unwanted pests
Guest access
The Entire Cabin and amenities are included. The Garages and sheds are not available for the use of our guests with the exception of the firewood storage.
Please make yourself at home! You will have easy access with a keypad for self-check-in.
Other things to note
Escape from it all - Cell Service can be patchy, but the WIFI is excellent, so you can stay as connected as you choose!
We are happy to welcome up to 2 dogs. We are not able to accommodate cats.
Stairs to the sleeping loft are fairly steep; we have traction strips and a handrail rail but this still may be challenging for some guests.
A security camera monitors the front yard and entrance for the safety and security of our guests.
Shorter or longer stay options are sometimes available upon request; cleansing fees will be adjusted accordingly. Contact us for more information!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Wildlands Experience — By Request
13. Wildlands Experience — By Request
100%
(1)
18mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 12 sites
Long Lake Wildlands is a private Northwoods wildlands campus used for scheduled Wilderness Challenge camps & retreats and select Land & Water Adventures (private-use options). This is not a public campground. Availability is limited and experiences vary by booking type—think rugged, off-grid reset time designed for mental, physical, and spiritual renewal through nature. Important: This property is not operated as a standard tent campground. Any “camping” is only available when explicitly included in a specific experience or booking type. If you’re looking for a typical campground reservation, please message us first so we can confirm the right fit and what’s included.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Grey Wolf Lodge
14. Grey Wolf Lodge
24mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 12 sites
Northern Minnesota Family Fishing Resort
Enjoy the best of Northern Minnesota at Grey Wolf Lodge. Wake up every morning to the sounds of local wildlife and unwind by the campfire every night.
While staying with us, experience the best fishing Minnesota has to offer or rent one of our marine rentals to explore the scenic lake. Whether you’re fishing, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying the outdoors, you’re sure to have a memorable Northern Minnesota experience.
Grey Wolf Lodge offers fishing and pontoon boat rentals in Minnesota. Our modern boats are equipped with the latest comforts and technology, ensuring a relaxing day on the water.
Whether you're chasing walleye, northern pike, bass, bluegill, or crappie at sunrise or cruising the scenic shoreline, our rentals provide the perfect way to experience the best of Pelican Lake.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Vaddu's Nature Reserve
15. Vaddu's Nature Reserve
26mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 1 site
Named in honor of a late great nature enthusiast from the owners' family, Vaddu's Nature Reserve offers a cute cabin for rent in 40 acres of picturesque North Minnesota hunting/birdwatching territory, 10 minutes from Bob Dylan's home town of Hibbing, 45 minutes from Duluth, and 3 hours from the Twin Cities. Barely 10 minutes north of the Sax-Zim Bog, one often hears a veritable symphony of birds while at the site.
The glampsite is ideal for folks who want to enjoy nature, find tranquility, and access nearby attractions in north Minnesota. A driveway provides easy access from Gerzin Road for people who might have a hard time walking long distances, with driveway parking right by the campsite; The location provides birding, hiking, bogging, and snow-shoeing possibilities for people of various abilities, both in the property and at nearby attractions like Washington State Forest or Cloquet Valley. Property is about half wetland and half forest, so ensure you safely prepare for expeditionary activities you might undertake...but you already knew that :-)
A map is attached with the photos, where the light green is bog/wetland and the darker green is forest, with the campsite shown in a white pin drop and some other markers like deer stands and feed lots in red/blue pin drops. The trails are marked in teal lines on the map (some blaze orange ribbons on trees irl) but not state-park-level by any measure (goals!) My buddy who has leased the hunting rights this year maintains the trails from time to time, but be aware of both, overgrowth and marshland. Dress in bright colors.
The campsite has a campfire setup, picnic table, firewood pile, other seating areas, space to play games/sports (some equipment provided), grills, propane stoves (propane not provided), an outhouse, borewell water (not drinkable without boiling/treatment but can be used for dishes, washing etc.). The cabin has heat by way of a propane heater. Solar-powered lantern in the cabin can charge cell phones. NOT ON THE GRID, but a generator takes care of any electronic or electrical appliances you might want to run. Bring drinking-water/TP/food/layers/sleeping-bags/blankets/trash-bags/repellant/etc.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Clintonville
16. Clintonville
26mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Owned and operated by JCA Environmental Group.
North Central of the Sax-Zim Bog. And just South of the Iron Range. This site has space for large RV's and Camper Trailers as well as many places for tents.
It is 200 feet off of a gravel road in a farming area.
Pack a lot of stuff because like Robinson Crusoe its as primitive as can be.
It is flat with some open spaces but manly trees.
Pets
Campfires
Private Cabin On Pelican Lake
17. Private Cabin On Pelican Lake
27mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 1 site
Spacious, well-stocked, and fun private cabin on west facing lot with amazing views of Pelican Lake in Orr, MN. Sleeps six with one queen bed and two sets of bunk beds. Enjoy sunsets by the firepit, fishing off the dock, access the lake for free via two stand up paddleboards or canoe.
The property used to be part of a summer camp and was built as the camp director’s cabin
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Showers
Wild Mint Pond
18. Wild Mint Pond
29mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
3 small ponds, walking distance to 7 lakes: Smith, East Smith, South Smith, West Smith, North Smith, McKeown and Duck Lakes. Glacial hills covered with birch, maple, balsam fir, and pines, sandy beach and outhouse across the road, U.S. Forest Service land to the south where Duck Lake lies. Lots of wildlife: deer, eagles, loons, ducks, great grey heron, otter, beaver, fox and more.
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Campfires
Kingfisher's Bend
19. Kingfisher's Bend
32mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
The beautiful Kingfisher's Bend is a blend of mixed mature timber, young trees and open meadow surrounded on three sides by the St. Louis River with 4 campsites. Sites 1-4 are tent or camper friendly. All sites are a 2-5 minute walk from the St. Louis River and a 2 minute walk from the new outhouse and water hose. A short ride from the Sax Zim Bog. Bring your camera, binoculars, fishing gear, canoe, kayak or river tube and enjoy a quiet float on the river, bird watching or fish the many fishing holes. Walleye, Northern Pike, Small mouth Bass and occasional trout and other species inhabit these waters. Hike the river's edge and relax along the bluffs. Enjoy dark skies for nighttime stargazing. Bring your family, your tick protected dog and your bug and tick spray! You will be camping near the woods so you will encounter the local flying and crawling bugs.
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Campfires
The Turtle Lake Beach House
20. The Turtle Lake Beach House
33mi from McCarthy Beach State Park · 1 site
This private resort-style getaway offers a sandy beach, breathtaking lake views, and a cozy, spacious lake house with separate bunkhouse and a full electric campsite.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
D
Dan
2 days ago
A
Aaron
3 days ago
34 ft travel trailer
With pets
Friendly people! Great Lake - swimming area is perfect for kids. We got a camping spot right next to the lake too. Super clean as well.
See more
A
Amber
3 days ago
31 ft Class C
With pets
We had a great stay. It was nice to have private lake property. We had great fishing from the dock! We also enjoyed canoeing, paddle boarding, and an evening fire. I would highly recommend. The owner was quick to respond and gracious with information and requests. We will be back!
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L
Lauren
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
Beautiful waterfront property, I had a great stay.
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J
Jasmine
April 2026
With pets
Great cabin rental—easy to find and very well maintained. Everything was clean, comfortable, and exactly as described. I had an amazing, peaceful stay with my dog. The owner, Sarah, was incredibly helpful and welcoming, which made the whole experience even better. Would definitely come back!
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Claudia
April 2026
With pets
I love coming back to this place! It's so private and secluded. If you want to be far away from noise and people, this is the perfect place for you! A perfect getaway from the city. Amanda is a great host and always checks in to see if you need anything. Thanks for everything!
See moreM
Mitch
November 2025
With pets
This is a fantastic place to stay. The host is wonderful and the location is incredible. We enjoyed the trails and keeping warm by the log cabin. Our dogs also had a blast. We would definitely come back.
See moreM
Molly
November 2025
With pets
This was everything I had hoped for. Private. Spacious. Beautiful. Amanda was attentive to our needs, even bringing us a first aid-kit an hour after arriving 🤣🤣 I selfishly dont want to leave a good review because i dont want it to be busy next time I want to go 🤣 10/10 recommend.
See moreA
Ashley
October 2025
With pets
Loved how secluded this cabin was! Was a great opportunity to unplug. The cabin also had a beautiful view!
See moreJ
Jesse
October 2025
With pets
I had a great time here. The cabin is rustic and cozy. Beautiful country.
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B
Blake
October 2025
Tent
Site 3 at the end was a great small campsite to stay at while mountain biking Redhead for the weekend! Nice fire ring and clean porta potty
See moreC
Charles
October 2025
Tent
Beautiful property, sunsets were second to none. The lake was peaceful and camp was quiet and private.
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D
Darrin
October 2025
Tent
Beautiful place to get away from the daily grind and do some star gazing and watch the meteors streak across the night skies. I'll definitely make the return trek. We'll worthbthen9 hour drive.
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J
Jaimie
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
This is our 2nd time camping at their property. This time we decided to camp at a different site and it was perfect! Love the privacy and like always, Patty and Dan were the perfect host! They even started our fire for us since we got there pretty late. We invited them to hang out with us Saturday night while we had the bonfire going. We will definitely be going back again in the spring and fall next year! Totally recommend their campsites!
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S
Sarah
October 2025
Tent
Such a beautiful property! Trails to meander and water access available. Patty welcomed us with home baked goods and checked in nightly, assuring we had everything we needed. Not a single complaint to be had about the property, host, or experience!
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Mike
September 2025
Tent
This place was a top 3 camping experience, anywhere. Let me break it down: Spacious campsite in deep woods, a maze of a trail system for hikes, they set us up with a large container of drinking water, outhouse was premium, they even dropped off fresh vegetables and eggs for us to eat. Unreal host commitment. 9.5 / 10 will go back and camp there. Great base for adventures on the Iron Range.
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M
Margie
September 2025
With pets
Really beautiful place, tucked away in the woods. An open sky unmarred by lights, it's truly breathtaking
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J
Joshua
September 2025
With pets
Cabin O’ Pines was amazing. The cabin and camp ground was very clean. The owners were around if we needed anything. 40 ish minutes to Voyageurs NP.
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C
Cat
September 2025
Tent
We loved our stay here! The folks at the office were so helpful and friendly, the site was clean and well maintained, and being able to take out a kayak or canoe onto the lake at any time was a wonderful feature. We stayed at a tent site, which was very conveniently located by the bathroom/showers. Cabin o’ Pines was a wonderful place to stay while exploring northern Minnesota and Voyageurs national park. We were even able to watch the northern lights from the lake! I would absolutely stay here again in the future.
See moreT
Timothy
September 2025
Tent
With pets
We really enjoyed our stay on Susan's land! The site is right on the water with a small dock and easy access for a kayak or canoe. We spent a good amount of time fishing from our kayaks and had great luck catching large bass and northern pike. We easily fit 2 vehicles and found 2 good flat spots for our rents (with plenty of room to spare). The fire pit and included wood made the chilly nights pleasant and the stars were beautiful. We did not make use of the sauna but it looked clean and serviceable (also smelled great!). The only real downside was the pit toilet, it could use a little attention and having woodchips available would have helped. That said, it wasn't terrible and it is a pit toilet after all. The site is fairly private but note there are neighbors across the treeline on both sides. They didn't detract from our weekend at all, just note it wasn't completely secluded. Overall I would highly recommend staying here, we will definitely be back!
See moreMcCarthy Beach State Park camping 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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