Stubler Beach and Campground

For those seeking a more rustic and affordable camping experience in the heart of Minnesota's beautiful Iron Range, Stubler Beach and Campground in Buhl offers a unique and convenient option. This charming little campground is nestled just blocks from downtown Buhl, providing a blend of natural immersion and easy access to local amenities. It caters particularly to campers who appreciate a back-to-basics approach, focusing on the joy of outdoor living rather than extensive modern conveniences.

Stubler Beach and Campground is known for its proximity to Stubler Beach, located just across the road. This former mine pit, now filled with clear, filtered water, provides a fantastic swimming area and is considered one of the nicest swimming beaches on the Range. The campground itself offers a handful of rustic campsites, designed to accommodate tents primarily, providing a peaceful base for exploring the area. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of larger, more developed parks, its simplicity and natural setting are a significant part of its appeal.

This campground is an excellent choice for groups, as the campsites, while not overly private, are spaced well enough to accommodate larger gatherings comfortably. It's a place where the focus is on enjoying the outdoors, whether that's swimming at the beach, fishing from the docks, or exploring the adjacent Mesabi Trail. While visitors should be prepared for a truly rustic experience, including basic restroom facilities and potential encounters with local wildlife, the value and unique natural setting often make it a worthwhile destination for adventurous campers.

Stubler Beach and Campground is located at 119 Grant Location, Buhl, MN 55713, USA. This address places it just a few blocks from the heart of downtown Buhl, a small community on Minnesota's historic Iron Range. The campground's key geographical feature is its direct proximity to Stubler Beach and Stubler Pit, a former mine pit that has transformed into a clear, inviting body of water.

Accessibility to Stubler Beach and Campground is quite convenient, particularly for those traveling within the Iron Range region. Buhl is easily reachable via Minnesota State Highway 169, a major route that traverses the Iron Range and connects to other significant towns like Hibbing and Virginia. From the highway, local roads lead directly into Buhl and to the campground's location on Grant Location. While the entry way might have some wear from weather, as noted by a reviewer, the overall access to this small, in-town campground is straightforward.

A major advantage of its location is the walkability to both Stubler Beach and downtown Buhl. Campers can simply cross the road to reach the swimming area and fishing docks, making water-based activities incredibly easy. The Mesabi Trail, a popular biking and hiking trail, runs directly adjacent to the campground, offering excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation right from your campsite. This blend of natural attractions and the convenience of being close to a small town makes Stubler Beach and Campground highly accessible for those looking to experience the unique charm of the Iron Range.

Stubler Beach and Campground offers basic, rustic services designed for tent campers and those seeking a straightforward outdoor experience.

• Rustic Campsites: The campground provides eight rustic campsites, primarily suitable for tent camping.
• Fire Pits: Each campsite is equipped with a fire pit for campfires and outdoor cooking.
• Picnic Tables: Picnic tables are available at each site for dining and meal preparation.
• Elevated Tent Pads: Campsites feature elevated tent pads, which can help with drainage and comfort.
• Porta-potties: Basic restroom facilities are provided in the form of porta-potties. Campers should be prepared that these may require cleaning and restocking of toilet paper (it's advised to bring your own).
• Water Access: While not specified as potable water hookups at sites, general access to water sources is typical for campgrounds, though visitors should plan accordingly.
• Beach Access: Direct access to Stubler Beach across the road, which includes its own restrooms, a pavilion, a change house, a designated swimming area, and two fishing docks.
• No Electricity or Water Hookups: As a rustic campground, it does not typically offer electric or water hookups for RVs or trailers.
• No On-site Staff: Visitors should be prepared for an unstaffed campground, requiring self-reliance and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
• Reservations Required: While basic, reservations are required for campsites.

Stubler Beach and Campground, despite its rustic nature, offers several key features and highlights that make it an attractive option for specific types of campers in Minnesota.

• Proximity to Stubler Beach: The most significant highlight is its location directly across the road from Stubler Beach, known for its clear water and being one of the nicest swimming areas on the Iron Range.
• Access to Stubler Pit Lake: Campers have access to Stubler Pit, a former mine pit now filled with clear, cool water, offering unique swimming and potentially fishing opportunities.
• Adjacent to Mesabi Trail: The popular Mesabi Trail, a multi-use biking and hiking trail, runs right alongside the campground, providing excellent recreational access.
• Suitable for Large Groups: The spacing of campsites, even if not super secluded, is described as good enough for large groups, making it suitable for family reunions or friend gatherings.
• Affordable Price Point: Reviewers note it's a "good place for the price," indicating it offers an economical camping solution.
• Rustic Camping Experience: For those who prefer a no-frills, traditional tent camping experience, it provides a back-to-basics environment.
• Walkable to Downtown Buhl: Its location just blocks from downtown Buhl means easy access to local establishments and amenities.
• Fishing Docks at Beach: The presence of two fishing docks at Stubler Beach enhances the recreational opportunities for anglers.
• Natural Environment: The campground is set among towering Norway pines, offering a natural and scenic backdrop, despite some mentioned issues with litter.
• Potential for Wildlife Sightings: While potentially alarming to some, the presence of local wildlife like cougars and bears indicates a truly natural setting. Campers should practice strict food storage and safety protocols.

For inquiries and reservations at Stubler Beach and Campground, the primary contact would be through the City of Buhl, as they manage the campground.

Address: 119 Grant Location, Buhl, MN 55713, USA

While a direct phone number for the campground itself might not be publicly listed, it is best to contact the City of Buhl for reservations and information.

City of Buhl, Minnesota:

General Phone (City Hall): (218) 258-3221 (This would be the most reliable contact for information and reservations regarding Stubler Beach and Campground, as the city manages it.)

It is highly recommended to contact the City of Buhl directly to confirm availability, especially as reservations are required. They can provide the most current information regarding campsite conditions, amenities, and any local advisories (e.g., about wildlife or trail conditions). Given the rustic nature of the campground and feedback regarding maintenance, direct communication before your visit will help ensure you are adequately prepared for your stay.

Stubler Beach and Campground holds a distinct appeal for locals in Minnesota, particularly for those residing on or near the Iron Range, or those seeking an affordable and straightforward outdoor adventure. For Minnesotans, the chance to camp just blocks from a unique swimming beach in a former mine pit, now filled with remarkably clear water, offers a novel experience that sets it apart from traditional lake camping. It provides a genuine taste of the region's industrial past now reclaimed by nature.

Its suitability for locals also stems from its affordability and rustic charm. Many Minnesotans appreciate a no-frills camping trip, where the focus is on simple outdoor pleasures rather than extensive amenities. The fact that it can comfortably accommodate large groups makes it an excellent choice for local family reunions, scout groups, or gatherings of friends looking for an economical and spacious base. Direct access to the Mesabi Trail is a significant draw for local cyclists and hikers, offering miles of scenic pathway right from their campsite.

While the reviews indicate that certain amenities like porta-potties may require some personal preparedness, and wildlife might be a presence, these aspects are often part of the "adventure" for seasoned local campers. The convenient walk to downtown Buh for basic supplies or a local meal further enhances its appeal. For Minnesotans looking for an unpretentious, nature-focused camping spot with excellent recreational access and a unique local flavor, Stubler Beach and Campground offers a compelling and memorable option right in their backyard.

Stubler Beach and Campground

119 Grant Location, Buhl, MN 55713, USA