Group Camp

For our Minnesota locals seeking an exceptional and private setting for their next group outdoor adventure, "Group Camp" at McCarthy Beach State Park in Side Lake offers an unparalleled experience. This isn't just a collection of individual campsites; it's a dedicated space designed to host larger gatherings, ensuring privacy, convenience, and direct access to the breathtaking beauty of northern Minnesota. Whether you're planning a family reunion, a scout troop outing, a friends' getaway, or any large group event, this unique group camp provides the perfect blend of rustic charm and essential amenities, all set amidst towering pines and the sparkling waters of Sturgeon Lake. It's truly a gem for those who appreciate both natural splendor and the joy of shared outdoor experiences.

Group Camp is ideally located at 7621 McCarthy Beach Rd, Side Lake, MN 55781, USA, within the expansive and beautiful McCarthy Beach State Park. This prime location places it in the heart of Minnesota's Iron Range region, known for its pristine lakes, dense forests, and abundant wildlife. For Minnesotans, reaching this serene destination is a manageable drive. From the town of Hibbing, you can take U.S. Highway 169 north to County Road 5, and then proceed about 16 miles to the park entrance. The address ensures that modern GPS systems will guide you accurately to the park. Once inside McCarthy Beach State Park, the Group Camp itself boasts an "excellent location" that is "very private." It's strategically situated right on the water, nestled between the main boat launch and the day-use area of Big Sturgeon Lake, yet manages to feel wonderfully secluded. This balance means your group has exclusive access to a beautiful waterfront setting, while still being conveniently close to park facilities and the vibrant chain of lakes (Sturgeon Lake, Side Lake, Pickerel Lake, Beatrice Lake) that defines the area. The ease of access, combined with its private and picturesque setting, makes Group Camp an ideal choice for Minnesota groups seeking a hassle-free and immersive outdoor escape.

Group Camp at McCarthy Beach State Park, while offering a rustic experience, provides essential services and features tailored for larger gatherings.

• Dedicated Group Site: This is a singular group campsite designed to accommodate larger numbers of people, typically up to 40 individuals. This dedicated space ensures privacy for your group and eliminates the need to reserve multiple individual campsites.

• Vault Toilets: The group camp is equipped with pit toilets (also known as vault toilets) directly on-site for immediate convenience. While not flush toilets, they are part of the rustic camping experience and are usually well-maintained.

• Potable Water Spigot: A spigot for water is available at the site, providing easy access to potable drinking water for your group.

• Proximity to Main Campground Facilities: While the group camp has its own basic facilities, the main campground bathrooms and showers are within "very walkable" distance, offering access to more modern amenities if desired.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: The group camp area typically includes multiple picnic tables and a large fire ring, perfect for group meals, campfires, and communal gatherings.

• Direct Water Access: The camp is situated right on the water (Big Sturgeon Lake), providing immediate access for swimming, fishing, and launching canoes or kayaks. It is nestled between the public boat landing and the day-use picnic area.

• Swimming Beach Access: Guests at the Group Camp have easy access to the renowned swimming beach at McCarthy Beach State Park, famous for its sugar sand and shallow, clear waters ideal for families and kids.

• Hiking and Biking Trails: The state park offers an extensive network of trails, including 18 miles of hiking trails and 16 miles suitable for horseback riding and mountain biking, allowing groups to explore the surrounding forests.

• Boat Access: Being near a boat landing on Sturgeon Lake makes it convenient for groups bringing their own watercraft to explore the chain of five connected lakes.

Group Camp at McCarthy Beach State Park stands out with several key features and highlights that make it a truly remarkable destination for large groups in Minnesota.

• Exceptional Privacy: A major highlight is the camp's "very private" setting. This dedicated group area ensures that your gathering can enjoy uninterrupted quality time together without being disturbed by other campers, fostering a more intimate and personalized experience.

• Prime Lakeside Location: Situated directly on the water of Big Sturgeon Lake, the group camp offers stunning "scenery... with the water and being amongst tall pines." This provides picturesque views, easy access for water activities, and a serene backdrop for your stay.

• Proximity to Park Amenities: Its unique positioning "between the boat launch and the day use area" means unparalleled convenience for accessing the park's main attractions. Your group can easily launch boats, enjoy the swimming beach, or utilize picnic facilities without extensive travel.

• Tall Pine Forest Setting: The campground is beautifully nestled among towering pines, offering ample shade, a refreshing scent, and a quintessential northern Minnesota forest ambiance that enhances the outdoor experience.

• Walkable Access to Modern Facilities: While the group camp itself offers rustic charm with pit toilets, the "main campground bathrooms are very walkable," providing the option of more modern amenities like flush toilets and showers when needed, offering the best of both worlds.

• Versatility for Activities: The combination of lake access, nearby trails (hiking, biking, horseback riding), and open spaces within the group camp itself ensures that there are plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged, from water sports to land-based exploration.

• Designed for Large Groups: Specifically built to accommodate larger parties (up to 40 people), the Group Camp provides the necessary space and setup (e.g., ample picnic tables, large fire pit) to comfortably host significant gatherings.

For reservations or to obtain more detailed information about Group Camp at McCarthy Beach State Park, please use the official contact channels for Minnesota State Parks and Trails:

Address: 7621 McCarthy Beach Rd, Side Lake, MN 55781, USA (This address is for McCarthy Beach State Park)

Park Main Phone: (218) 274-7200

Minnesota DNR Reservations (Toll-Free): (866) 857-2757 (Available April-September, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. D.T.)

Online reservations can typically be made 24 hours a day through the Minnesota DNR's official website (mndnr.gov) or the ReserveMN platform. It is highly recommended to book group campsites well in advance, as they are often popular and fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

For our Minnesota locals, Group Camp at McCarthy Beach State Park offers an outstanding and often sought-after solution for collective outdoor adventures. If you're organizing an event that requires privacy, ample space, and direct access to stunning natural features, this group camp is precisely what you need. Its wonderfully private setting allows your entire party to truly bond and enjoy each other's company without external disturbances. Being right on the water of Big Sturgeon Lake, amidst tall pines, provides an idyllic backdrop for swimming, boating, fishing, and simply relaxing by the campfire. The convenient proximity to both the boat launch and the park's day-use area, combined with walkable access to more modern restroom facilities in the main campground, makes it incredibly practical. This is a perfect spot for memorable family reunions, scout trips, or large gatherings of friends who want to immerse themselves in Minnesota's natural beauty. Group Camp ensures that your collective outdoor experience is not only comfortable and convenient but truly unforgettable, making it a premier choice for any local group seeking an authentic Minnesota wilderness retreat.

Group Camp

7621 McCarthy Beach Rd, Side Lake, MN 55781, USA