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McCarthy Beach State Park

Leaf color:

75-100%
Flower color:

75-100%
Grass color:

past peak
color guide

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Details:

Where to go: This may be the peak of this year's fall color season. While predicted rain might put a damper on hiking, the forest roads surrounding the park are well worth an auto-tour drive.

What you'll see: Most maples along the forest roads are still sporting brilliant red, yellow, or orange leaves, but others have dropped theirs. Aspen and birch are mostly yellow and gold. Asters are plentiful along the roadsides, and the ferns are gold & brown.

Also of interest: The campground is still open on a rustic, self-registration basis. Due to the moderating influence of the lakes, the maples in the campground will reach peak later than those in the surrounding area, extending the peak season.

Last updated: October 2, 2013 

Special Offer for Park Permits

Can’t decide between a one-day or year-round park permit? The DNR has a special offer that can help. Start by purchasing a one-day permit for $5 and visit as many state parks as possible. After visiting the state parks, trade in the one-day permit by the end of that day and get $5 off the purchase of a year-round permit. Year-round permits, which cost $25, provide unlimited access to all 76 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas for a full year from the month of purchase.
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Getting there

7622 McCarthy Beach Road
Side Lake, MN 55781


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

Contact

Phone: 218-254-7979


Email: info.dnr@state.mn.us


The office is open 10 am - Noon on Saturdays and Sundays in October, plus other days and times as staff is available. Mornings are the best time to reach someone by phone. Self-registration is available when the office is closed.