Come to McCarthy Beach State Park and you'll remember the lakes. Snowmobiling is also popular. Glaciers are in fact largely responsible for the shape of McCarthy Beach State Park, including all the hills and glacial till that were left behind. McCarthy Beach State Park covers 2,500 acres, but most visitors get only as far as the shoreline, picnic area and campground on the narrow isthmus between Sturgeon and Side Lake. The shelter can be rented by the day, and is sometimes rented in conjunction with the adjacent group camp. MCCARTHY BEACH STATE PARK 7622 MCCARTHY BEACH ROAD SIDE LAKE, MN 55781 SAINT LOUIS COUNTY 218-274-7200 VISITOR TIPS The campground and beach are busy areas with narrow roads. For a more challenging experience, head to the dock at Pickerel Lake and try to catch a clever trout! Over the years, the area became a popular picnic and tenting ground for people from the Iron Range. People from all over the Iron Range began to visit Sturgeon Lake and the other surrounding lakes to relax by the water and in nature: a precursor to the state parks lake destination status today. Find everything you need for camping, including hiking supplies, tents, coolers, sleeping bags, cots, survival & first aid, food processing, and more! Some of those glaciers even formed some of the lakes you can visit at McCarthy Beach State Park. Come to McCarthy Beach State Park and you'll remember the lakes. McCarthy Beach State Park in Side Lake, Minnesota: 2 reviews, 5 photos, & 2 tips from fellow RVers. All rights reserved | Site Map | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Terms and Conditions. There is always potable water available from spigots, but you might want to call ahead and check the condition of the sink water. More than 175 species of birds also visit the area. It is located in French Township, Saint Louis County . Was not overly crowded either. The swimming beach is a very popular destination with its one-half mile long shoreline and shallow waters that reach hundreds of feet into the lake. The park offers 86 campsites at two different campgrounds, of which 21 have electric hookups and updated facilities. Side Lake Campground, Mc Carthy Beach, MN: The earth itself is made from ancient and cooled lava, which was carved by the passing and repassing of glaciers during the ice age. Picnic tables, fire rings, and picnic shelter on Sturgeon Lake. Thistledew Campground and Day-Use Area | Explore Minnesota 218-254-7979. The hilly trails are enjoyed by hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, skiers, and snowmobilers. Soft fluffy sand stretches for half a mile with shady trees lining the water. 7622 McCarthy Beach Road. And though a tornado in the 1960's took down most of the largest trees, the area is still preserved and the forest is rebuilding. <table style="width:100%;height:100%;"><tr style="vertical-align:middle;"><td><div style="text-align:center;">ERROR:<br/><br/>Javascript not activated<br/><br/></div . XyawlmG, It contains picnic tables and a large round fireplace. 888-646-6367. Highly accessible, the beach has gentle ramps leading into the water, making it perfect for visitors with all ranges of abilities.If Side Lake doesnt suit you, easily hop over to Little Sturgeon or one of the other five lakes set within the park. Whatever you have planned for the day, you can find the perfect trail for your next trip to McCarthy Beach State Park. Snowmobiling is also popular. Great tasting fish. During that period, glaciers flowed south, retreated north, and flowed south again. If youre looking for a fun family (or solo!) The park protects a northern boreal forest with stands of red and white pine and leatherleaf-black spruce lowlands. Why not bring your mountain bike so you can take advantage of the parks 16 miles of mountain biking trails? McCarthy Beach State Park | Minnesota DNR In 1895, the Swan River Logging Company built a railroad to Sturgeon Lake. Get an alert when a campsite becomes available at McCarthy Beach State Park! Banning State Park Campground has 34 single-family campsites and is located in a forested area near the Kettle River with plenty to discover. 1945. Lars Hammar. When the property owner John A. McCarthy died in 1943, his daughter sold the land to a lumberman. Required fields marked *. People from all around bring their boats and spend the day swimming, playing frisbee, having picnics and enjoying the lake and beach. According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in McCarthy Beach State Park is Pickerel Lake Loop. While the beach may be famous, the trail system is the hidden gem of McCarthy Beach State Park. We noticed a lot of grandparents with kids, and I The shallow water that makes the swimming beach at McCarthy Beach State Park kid-friendly is a bit of a deterrent to boat owners, but they still arrive from all over the Sturgeon chain of lakes to hang out in the deeper waters and even have fun with water sports like water skiing. This will not work! Thats right, McCarthy Beach State Park has a beautiful lake beach called sugar sand beach that has been adored by locals since the parks founding. The ramps location makes it convenient for the many campers who bring a boat along to explore the five interconnected lakes of the Sturgeon chain. This boat access is located next to the group camp on the south end of the park. Because McCarthy Beach State Park is a great destination for outdoor activities in close proximity to nature! (218) 274-7200 (Phone) (866) 857-2757 (Toll Free) View Website. The more your referral link gets used, the more money youll start earning. To reach the ski trail parking lot, continue north on Hwy 5 instead of turning. McCarthy Beach State Park has about 18 miles of trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. It's about 20 miles north of Hibbing. However, these shelters are not heated, so make sure you dress warmly for an entire day outside. Shallow water, shoreline, and ridges that provide fun for boaters, mountain bikers, snowshoers, and hikers alike. McCarthy Beach State Park sold out? A number of the sites work well for groups camping together. Total number of campsites available in winter: Camping accessible to people with disabilities. Camping Resources | Blog | Contact | McCarthy's Beach State Park is close to local convenience stores and casual dining. Cloud Ceiling 7100 ft. 2023 Minnesota DNR | Equal opportunity employer |. This small trout lake is a favorite destination for anglers and hikers. If you dont like crowded areas, I advise you to visit them during the spring or fall as opposed to the summer. If you're simply commenting on this campground and would like to submit your comment without a Rating, click the "No Rating" button below. Too many sticks in the water and on the beach - Review of McCarthy Although its impossible to accurately predict sightings, early spring tends to be a favorable time for catching a glimpse of the natural phenomenon, the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. Water is available from hand pumps and vault toilets are provided. All sites have a picnic table, tent or RV pad, and fire ring with grill for cooking, and have access to water and toilet facilities. What is the longest trail in McCarthy Beach State Park? Come to McCarthy Beach State Park and you'll remember the lakes. I did! Many bikers join the Taconite State Trail with the Link Lake Trail, Ski Trail, and Stingy Lake Trail to make a longer and more challenging route. While the beach may be famous, the trail system is the hidden gem of McCarthy Beach State Park. A long expanse of shallow water makes it perfect for kids, and parents can choose to sit in the sun or shade while watching them. Canoes, rowboats, kayaks, and a paddleboat are all available to rent. Doheny State Beach is located right on the beach in one of the premier Southern California coastal areas. Most park trails are accessed by vehicle due to private land between the main use area of the park and the trail system, but this scenic one-mile loop leads directly from the campground. So if youre looking for a great nature destination with something to entertain every member of the family, keep reading to learn all about McCarthy Beach State Park. Park McCarthy Beach State Park State Minnesota Country United States Phone Number 218-254-7979 Directions View on Google Maps Official Website View Website Coordinates 47.673 N, 93.027 W $23/night Tent / RV / Trailer: 59 Sites (Up to people per site) Campers also viewed. According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in McCarthy Beach State Park is. Red crossbill and evening grosbeak are often seen in the Beatrice Lake area. The carry-down access requires a bit of work, but kayakers and canoeists appreciate the more protected waters of Pickerel Lake on windy days. You wont find any showers or electricity here. Where is the best place to hike in McCarthy Beach State Park? With accessibility ramps into the water, its a great option for those with disabilities. In 1895, the Swan River Logging Company built a railroad to Sturgeon Lake. The park is also the midpoint of the Taconite State Trail. Visited McCarthy Beach State Park Campground lately? Self-payment envelopes are no longer accepted on site. Launch a boat to explore Side Lake and the four connected lakes of the Sturgeon chain. Hi Janet, Each campsite also has a table, fire ring and grate. For longer ventures, head out on the Taconite Trail for access to hundreds of miles of additional trails. Beverly Beach State Park is in forest-sheltered area right on the Oregon coast and is a very popular campground featuring a beautiful trail to and along miles of sandy beach. Use these directions and coordinates in your GPS instead to get to the horse campground, the backpack/watercraft campground, or the Yellow Medicine River Campground. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. July 19, 2022, Great family vacation spot. Get everything you need to enjoy your outdoor adventures from bags and packs to air beds and sleeping bags, insect repellant, cooler bags, and 2-burner stoves. In fact, the birth of the state park was made possible by the construction of a railroad to Sturgeon Lake in the late 1800s. Private RV Campgrounds | Public Campgrounds | The park has several lakes where visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation activities including boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming, hiking, biking, picnicking and wildlife viewing. Its certainly worth the burnt calories! Eighteen miles of trails wind through heavily wooded hills and around pothole lakes. Mccarthy Beach State Park, MN Hourly Weather | AccuWeather With one of the top rated beaches in the U.S. at Sturgeon Lake, you can explore and relax at McCarthy Beach State Park. AllTrails has 1 great trails for hiking and more. June 22, 2023, We enjoy the water and The Sandbar. For your security, we no longer accept any self-payment envelopes on site. There are also a group campground and equestrian campground available. Local citizens became concerned about the fate of the timber and were able to persuade the new owner to sell the land. McCarthy Beach State Park Campground Minnesota - CampsitePhotos.com Sturgeon We can help! Beautiful camp. Explore one of 1 easy hiking trails in McCarthy Beach State Park that are great for the whole family. 2023 Minnesota DNR | Equal opportunity employer |, Use these directions and coordinates in your GPS instead. The 23 campsites are considered "primitive," designed to furnish only the basic needs of the camper. 18 miles hiking trails, 16 miles horseback and mountain bike, and 12 miles of snowmobile trails. The sandy beach on Sturgeon Lake was rated one of the top 17 beaches in North America by Highways Magazine. Dig your toes into the sandy beach on Sturgeon Lake, rated one of the top 17 beaches in North America by Highways' Magazine. While primarily a tenting area, some visitors are able to fit small trailers in between the trees. Park McCarthy Beach State Park State Minnesota Country United States Phone Number 218-254-7979 Directions View on Google Maps Official Website View Website Coordinates 47.71 N, 93.07 W $15/night Tent Only - Hike In: 3 Sites MNFrmGrl, Plus, the beach is close to a camping area, which means you can go for a swim or play some beach sports before hanging out by the campfire. Side Lake has a designated fishing pier where visitors congregate. This can be an extremely busy area in the summer since the boat landing is located along the very heavily used campground road. My grandchildren say that we There, you share the same spaces as black bears, chipmunks, raccoons, squirrels, timber wolves, deer, and many different species of birds, reptiles, and water creatures! Both campgrounds have drinking water, flush toilets and showers. Its location on a bluff above the lake makes it a great spot to watch the sunset. McCarthy Beach State Park | Explore Minnesota Some of the parks electric campsites can be seen along shore. The restroom building is handicap accessible and also provides changing rooms. The highway that used to run through the park has been permanently closed. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Be sure to check ahead of time that you have the correct licenses and specific fish stamps. 866-857-2757. The trails along County Road 501 give easy access to the park's woodlands for here. McCarthy Beach State Park, Minnesota, United States - Campsite Reservations The railroad was built in order to transport logs to the waterways and eventually into Swan River, which would move the timber down to the Minneapolis sawmills. How many trails are in McCarthy Beach State Park. Eighteen miles of trails wind through heavily wooded hills and around pothole lakes. According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in McCarthy Beach State Park is. From the town of Hibbing, take U.S. Highway 169 north to County Road 5, then 16 miles to the park. Vault toilets, garbage cans, and drinking water are available. I've camped at both the rustic sites and Just be careful not to bother the swimmers! Just thinkyoure swimming in ancient water! Amazing fishing opportunities. This program is made possible by funds from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment. Side Lake Campground sold out? If you didnt come prepared, the park offers free fishing gear loans (rod, reel, and stocked tackle box) so you can try to capture walleye, bass, pike, and panfish. From Hibbing, take Highway 169 north to County Road 5. A nearby shower building and rental boat area can also be seen. 328jeffz, Side Lake can be seen in the foreground, with Sturgeon Lake visible behind the narrow strip of land containing the campground and day use facilities. PDF C Cedar Waxwing C - Minnesota Department of Natural Resources I hope this post has inspired you to make McCarthy Beach State Park your newest lake destination for the whole family. After the land owner died in the early 1940s, the land was eventually purchased by the state thanks to the help of locals who wanted to immortalize its beauty and helped raise money for the purchase. The Sturgeon Lake chain is made up of five interconnected lakes, and what better way to explore this beautiful oasis than on the water? PDF 2023, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources needed for winter activities plus crosscountry skiing. Sightings can take place from late March through early August, but if you are only visiting for the beach, the ideal water temperature and Northern Lights probably do not line up. Hint: You can even borrow fishing rods and tackle from the park office! This rustic campground is located seven miles from the main use area of the park, and is situated on a peninsula jutting out into Beatrice Lake. Walk along the half-mile of shoreline, or venture out into the shallow water that extends hundreds of feet into the lake. McCarthy Beach State Park is a state park of Minnesota, USA, on the Sturgeon Lake chain near Hibbing. My grandchildren love it, but getting to the water is not fun. If you want to combine a couple of days of tent camping along with your RV camping, McCarthy Beach State Park also manages the nearby Stony Brook Horse Camp, which has rustic spots and equestrian setups available. These sites are not suitable for long trailers or motor homes due to sharp turns at the ends of the lanes. With a half mile of frontage on Sturgeon Lake, there is plenty of room to take advantage of the shallow water that stretches 100 feet or more out from shore. During the busy summer season, vehicles are usually lined up in front of the office as visitors purchase vehicle permits or register to camp. Remember to snap a picture from the top of the fire tower. Swimming in the summer brought McCarthy Beach its fame, but now that the park is on your radar, go for the trails! The park also has 18 miles of trails for snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. McCarthy Beach State Park actually includes several lakes across over 2300 acres of nature which can be the backdrops for many different water and nature activities, both during the warmer seasons and in the winter. A water-recreation enthusiasts' haven! 2,471 acres (10.00 km 2) Elevation. You are now leaving ExploreMinnesota.com. Hint: if you want to camp somewhere with a great view, go to the group camp! McCarthy Beach State Park. It left low rolling hills with steep sides called moraines. Get Directions. The picnic pavilion is located to the south of the main beach on a bluff above Sturgeon Lake. Love spending time outside? If you yearn for more adventure than the main beach at Side Lake, swim, drive, or paddle yourself to one of the other five lakes within the park. 7622 McCarthy Beach Rd. Located in George Washington State Forest, managed by McCarthy Beach State Park. Side Lake, MN 55781. By matching local money with state money the land was purchased and became a state park in 1945. The 116,000 visitors a year mentioned above dont include all of the wildlife youll find at McCarthy Beach State Park today. With 165 miles to explore, you can take off on your snowmobile and spend the day marking up the trails before heading back to your RV campsite to warm up. In this rustic campground, the spots are more spacious than the spaces at Side Lake, allowing for bigger rigs to settle in comfortably. McCarthy Beach State Park is a state park of Minnesota, USA, on the Sturgeon Lake chain near Hibbing. McCarthy Beach State Park, a Minnesota State Park - America's Parks These trails have an average 4.2-star rating from 105 AllTrails community reviews. document.getElementById( "ak_js" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); If you're reviewing this campground please consider including a Rating with your review. This trail system takes you around Beatrice Lake, past Sturgeon Lake and Little Sturgeon Lake, and then in between Side Lake and Pickerel Lake. There are also equestrian campsites at Stony Brook Horse Camp. Come to McCarthy Beach State Park and you'll remember the lakes. Very private spots. There are 1 trails in McCarthy Beach State Park. McCarthy Beach State Park has two campgrounds (Beatrice Lake and Side Lake) that have a total of 89 single-family campsites. 121 7th Place E, Suite 360 St. Paul, MN 55101. Many have seasonal access to showers, and some have optional electric and water hook-ups. If youre not a fan of spending the night in a tent but you still want to be in nature, then picnicking is a great option for you. The Comprehensive Visitor's Guide to McCarthy Beach State Park It is located in French Township, Saint Louis County. Wind Gusts 16 mph. Locals raised some of the money to finance the sale. 121 7th Place E, Suite 360 St. Paul, MN 55101, Water conservation/wastewater management plan, Camping accessible to people with disabilities, Yia Vang's Coffee Rub Ribeye with Potatoes and Grilled Veggies Recipe, Canoe, Kayak, Paddleboard & Rowboat Rentals. Lake Perris offers a variety of water recreation, including swimming, fishing (shore, pier and boat), boating, sailing, waterskiing, and a special area for scuba diving. For the best view in the entire state park, head to the fire tower, which is normally used as a wildfire lookout. Dig your toes into the sandy beach on Sturgeon Lake, rated one of the top 17 beaches in North America by Highways' Magazine. Local citizens became concerned about the fate of the timber and were able to persuade the new owner to sell the land. By matching local money with state money the land was purchased and became a state park in 1945. Boating to the park for a day of picnicking or water skiing is also popular thanks to the chain of five connected lakes in the area. In the mood for some bluegill or crappie? Get an availability alert when someone cancels with Campsite Assist: https://www.campsitephotos.com/campsite-assi.