McCarthy Beach State Park
Overview
McCarthy Beach State Park’s hilly landscape and lakes have long made it a popular destination. Its pothole lakes were made during the retreat of the last continental glacier 12,000 years ago. The glacier left behind large chunks of ice. The depressions they created filled with water, forming lakes. Many years later, "McCarthy’s beach" became a popular picnic and swimming spot for families along the Mesabi Iron Range. In 1945, the park was established as a living memorial to area servicemen that lost their lives in World War II. Named for former owner John A. McCarthy, the park protects a northern boreal forest with red and white pine, leatherleaf-black spruce lowlands, birch and aspen. More than 175 species of birds visit the area and visitors are treated to sights of loons gliding on the lakes and great blue herons stalking small fish in the shallows.
- Trails
- 5
- Viewpoints
- 5
- Activities
- 0
- POIs
- 20
Opening Hours08:00 AM – 10:00 PM SOSEmergency SOS8886466367 Alerts & Advisories
Stay informed before heading out
Popular/Nearby Trails
Nearby Viewpoints
Nearby Points of Interest
Amenities Available
Paved Parking LotsDesignated vehicle parking areas with clearly marked spaces and ADA-accessible spots mandated by federal law. Most parks offer free or low-cost daily parking passes.
Restrooms / Flush ToiletsModern restroom facilities with running water and proper sanitation. Subject to seasonal closures in northern states during winter months.
Drinking Water FountainsPotable water stations distributed throughout the park, tested regularly for safety to ensure clean water access for all visitors.
Picnic Areas & SheltersCovered pavilions equipped with tables and built-in grills. Shelters are often reservable for group events and birthday parties.
Visitor / Ranger StationInformation hub staffed by rangers or volunteers offering maps, wildlife briefings, and educational programs for school groups and families.
Hiking & Nature TrailsMarked paths ranging from easy, paved walks to rugged backcountry routes, blazed with color-coded markers and difficulty ratings.
CampgroundsTent and RV sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables. Some include full electric hookups, reservable through Recreation.gov.
Swimming Areas / BeachesDesignated swim zones with seasonal lifeguard coverage. Daily water quality reports are posted at the entrance and online.
Fishing Piers & AccessAccessible fishing spots and ADA-compliant piers along rivers and lakes. A valid state fishing license is required to fish.
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