Side Lake Campground

Open

The campground is currently open and accepting reservations for winter camping. Minnesota state parks require advance reservations.

Flood Advisory issued May 9 at 9:44AM CDT until May 11 at 3:45PM CDT by NWS Duluth MN

May 9th, 9:44 AM — May 11th, 3:45 PM

High water continues across portions of the far eastern Rainy River watershed due to the effects of recent heavy rains and snowmelt. * WHAT...Flooding caused by rain and snowmelt continues. * WHERE...In Minnesota, northwest Cook, northern Lake and northeast St. Louis Counties. * WHEN...Until 345 PM CDT Monday. * IMPACTS...Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas, rivers and around area lakes. Some low-water crossings may become impassable. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - At 943 AM CDT Saturday, elevated river and lake levels continue. - This includes the following streams and drainages... Isabella River, Moose River, Jeanette Creek, Horse River, Basswood River, Kawishiwi River, and Hustler River. Additional rainfall amounts up to one-quarter inch are expected over the area through early next week. Expect high, fast moving water on area rivers and elevated lake levels. Water levels are near or above those seen during flood events in Spring 2022 and June 2024. Areas near the end of the Gunflint Trail and near Ely will see slow decreases in elevated water levels through this weekend. For areas near and on Basswood Lake and Lac La Croix, expect rises to continue into this weekend, with peak flows expected during the week of May 11. Those venturing into the Boundary Waters should prepare for high water and possible inundation of portages and campsites, as well as dangerous rapids and very cold water. - Some locations that will experience flooding include... Gunflint Lake, Snowbank Lake, Basswood Lake, Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Fall Lake, White Iron Lake, Sea Gull Lake, Saganaga Lake, Ensign Lake, Disappointment Lake and Lac La Croix. - Flood safety information can be found at www.weather.gov/safety/flood.

About

Side Lake Campground serves as the primary camping facility at McCarthy Beach State Park, situated on the shores of Side Lake in Minnesota's northern lake country. The campground encompasses 59 wooded sites spread across multiple loops, with tall pines providing ample shade and a sense of privacy. Twenty-one sites feature electric hookups, while the remaining sites offer a more rustic experience without hookups. The campground roads are narrow and winding, particularly on the interior loops, making some areas better suited for tent campers and smaller trailers rather than large motorhomes. Modern amenities include shower buildings, restrooms, and a dump station for RVs. Water is available from spigots throughout the campground, and vault toilets supplement the main facilities in more remote loops. Canoes, rowboats, kayaks, and paddleboats are available to rent from the campground. Side Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities for bluegill, crappie, northern pike, and walleye, with a fishing pier and boat launch located within the campground. The park's boat ramp provides access to the Sturgeon Lake chain of five interconnected lakes. A scenic one-mile shoreline trail winds along Side Lake directly from the campground. McCarthy Beach State Park's famous sandy beach on Sturgeon Lake is a short walk or bike ride away, featuring a half-mile of shallow swimming area. The park's extensive trail system offers 18 miles of paths for hiking and mountain biking through heavily forested terrain.

Directions

From Hibbing, take U.S. Highway 169 north to County Road 5, then drive 16 miles to the park.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station Yes
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers Yes
Electric Hookups Yes
Water Hookups No
Sewer Hookups No
Camp Store Yes
Price $24 - $34

Vehicle

Max RV Length 52ft
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (218) 274-7200

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile Yes

Availability

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