Side Lake Campground

Hello, fellow Minnesotans! Are you dreaming of that classic "up North" experience, complete with towering pines, crystal-clear lakes, and the peaceful sounds of nature? Look no further than Side Lake Campground, a cherished part of McCarthy Beach State Park, located near Side Lake, MN. For those of us who grew up with or long for the quintessential Minnesota outdoor adventure, this campground truly delivers that authentic feel, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities right on the water.

Side Lake Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to the stunning natural landscape of northern Minnesota. Situated on the narrow isthmus between Sturgeon Lake and Side Lake, within the vast 2,500 acres of McCarthy Beach State Park, it offers direct access to a chain of five interconnected lakes. This unique setting provides an abundance of activities, from serene swims on a beautiful sandy beach to adventurous paddling and excellent fishing. While some spots might feel a bit "crammed in" during peak season, the overall charm, convenient amenities, and the sheer beauty of the surroundings more than make up for it.

This article will provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Side Lake Campground within McCarthy Beach State Park. We’ll explore its prime location, the array of services offered, and the standout features that make it an ideal destination for Minnesota locals seeking that quintessential "Up North" escape. Get ready to discover your next favorite camping spot!

Side Lake Campground is precisely located at 7608 McCarthy Beach Rd, Side Lake, MN 55781, USA. This address places it squarely within McCarthy Beach State Park, a jewel of the Minnesota State Park system in St. Louis County, in the northeastern part of the state.

For Minnesotans, reaching Side Lake is a quintessential journey "up North." From the Twin Cities metropolitan area (Minneapolis-St. Paul), the drive typically takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, making it a perfect destination for extended weekend trips or longer summer vacations. From Duluth, it's a more manageable 1.5- to 2-hour drive. The park is situated near the communities of Hibbing and Chisholm, offering convenient access to supplies, gas, and other necessities before you settle into your campsite.

The campground's location within McCarthy Beach State Park is a significant advantage. The park itself is strategically positioned on an isthmus between Sturgeon Lake and Side Lake, providing unparalleled water access. The main campground road can be "heavily used" in summer, indicating its popularity and ease of access directly within the park. This blend of natural seclusion and accessible roadways makes Side Lake Campground a convenient and desirable destination for Minnesota families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Side Lake Campground, as part of McCarthy Beach State Park, offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities to enhance your camping experience.

• Campsites (Electric & Non-Electric): The main Side Lake Campground offers a good number of sites, including many with electric hookups (30/50 amp), suitable for both RVs and tents. There are also non-electric sites. While some spots are "crammed in," the "end loop and sites farther from the lake are quite nice," suggesting variety.

• Clean Showers and Restrooms: Reviews and park information confirm the presence of a "shower building" and "comfort stations" with flush toilets and hot and cold running water. Cleanliness is often noted by visitors.

• Potable Water: Water spigots are located throughout the campground, ensuring easy access to drinking water.

• Dump Station: A dump station is available within the park for RV waste disposal.

• Boat Landing and Docks: A busy "Side Lake Boat Ramp" is conveniently located along the campground road, allowing campers to launch their own boats. Docks are available for tying up boats at night, or boats can be pulled up on the sandy shoreline.

• Rental Boats: For those without their own watercraft, the park offers rentals of "canoes, rowboats, kayaks, and a paddleboat," making water recreation accessible to everyone. Fishing rods and tackle can also be borrowed for free from the park office.

• Designated Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campsite comes equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table for cooking and outdoor dining.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase at the ranger station or via the Yodel app, preventing the spread of tree-killing insects.

• Day Use Area and Picnic Pavilion: Across the road from the campground is a day-use area with a large picnic pavilion that can be rented, and additional picnic tables.

• Nature Store/Ranger Station: A park office or ranger station is on-site for check-ins, information, and purchasing essentials or souvenirs.

• "Up North" Atmosphere: The campground truly embodies the "up North feel," with "tall pines" providing excellent shade and a classic Minnesota wilderness ambiance, offering a refreshing escape from city life.

• Direct Lake Access and Sandy Beach: Side Lake Campground is "right on the lake," with a half-mile long natural sand beach on Sturgeon Lake. The shallow, clear waters extending hundreds of feet into the lake make it an incredibly popular and safe spot for swimming.

• Abundant Water Recreation: With access to the five interconnected lakes of the Sturgeon chain, visitors can enjoy "fishing, swimming, canoeing, and small boat rentals." This offers endless possibilities for aquatic adventures, from leisurely paddles to serious angling.

• Extensive Trail System: McCarthy Beach State Park boasts "about 18 miles of hiking trails" that wind through forested ridges and valleys. These trails are also used for biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in winter, offering year-round outdoor activity.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The park is home to "more than 175 species of birds and three-dozen species of mammals," providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation.

• Natural Beauty and Shade: The mature pine forest provides significant shade for most campsites, a welcome feature during warm summer days. The natural setting contributes to the "beautiful and relaxing" atmosphere.

• Variety of Campsites: While some areas can be busy, the availability of electric sites and the presence of "nice" spots in the end loop or farther from the lake cater to different preferences for privacy and amenities.

Side Lake Campground is part of McCarthy Beach State Park, and all reservations and inquiries are handled through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) State Parks system.

Address: 7608 McCarthy Beach Rd, Side Lake, MN 55781, USA (This is the park's main address).

Phone: McCarthy Beach State Park Office: (218) 274-7200

For reservations and general Minnesota State Park camping questions, you can use the statewide reservation system:

Online Reservations: Visit the official Minnesota DNR website (recreation.mn.gov or dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/park.html?id=spk00226) and search for McCarthy Beach State Park. Online reservations can typically be made 24 hours a day.

Phone Reservations: Call toll-free at 1-866-857-2757. Call center hours vary seasonally, so check the DNR website for current times.

It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially for popular summer weekends and holidays, as Side Lake Campground can be "a busy campground." Vehicle permits are required for entry into Minnesota State Parks.

For Minnesotans, Side Lake Campground within McCarthy Beach State Park offers an incredibly suitable and quintessential "up North" camping experience. Its location amidst towering pines and directly on the Sturgeon Lake chain provides that sought-after natural beauty and serene escape that many locals crave. The pervasive "up North feel" makes it a perfect destination to disconnect from urban life and immerse oneself in the calming embrace of nature.

The campground's comprehensive amenities, including electric sites, clean showers, and easy access to potable water and a dump station, ensure a comfortable stay for both RV and tent campers. However, it's the sheer abundance of recreational opportunities that truly makes Side Lake Campground shine for locals. With direct access to a beautiful sandy beach for swimming, ample opportunities for fishing, and a variety of boat rentals (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, paddleboats), water enthusiasts will find endless ways to enjoy the interconnected lakes. Beyond the water, the extensive network of hiking and biking trails within McCarthy Beach State Park offers plenty to explore on land, catering to active families and individuals.

While it can be "busy" due to its popularity, this also speaks to its appeal and the vibrant atmosphere created by fellow outdoor lovers. For a true taste of Minnesota's natural splendor, combining comfortable camping with endless water and trail activities, Side Lake Campground at McCarthy Beach State Park is an undeniable top choice for locals seeking their next memorable "up North" adventure.

Side Lake Campground

7608 McCarthy Beach Rd, Side Lake, MN 55781, USA