Being landlocked, Minnesota isn’t exactly known for its beaches. But being the Land of 10,000 Lakes, our beautiful state has a few tricks up its sleeve. Our lakes mean this state is home to a surprising number of beautiful beaches. In fact, one state park beach was named one of the best beaches in North America according to the DNR. Read on to learn about McCarthy State Park and its unforgettable beach.

McCarthy Beach State Park is a lesser known park in northern Minnesota. The address is 7622 McCarthy Beach Rd., Side Lake, MN 55781. It's about 20 miles north of Hibbing.
Justin B/TripAdvisor
The park, while not as popular as other northern Minnesota parks, is still full of beauty.
Tony Webster/Flickr
The lakes — Side Lake and Sturgeon Lake — are just as gorgeous as any other lake up north. You'll be calmed and inspired by their sparkling waters.
Im Lost/Flickr
The park has 18 miles of hiking trails running through it, giving easy access to the scenery. Rolling hills dotted with trees give way to the beautiful lakes.
Mike Kirwin/Google

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As you walk, you might even come across some wildlife. Bears and deer lurk the forests, while great blue herons and loons glide across the water.
USFWS Midwest Region/Flickr
Speaking of water, it doesn't get much better than Sturgeon Lake. It is this beach that was named one of the best beaches in North America thanks to its half-mile of sand prime for sunbathing and sandcastles.
Julie-Alice Nath/Google
Not only is it sandy, but the lake is shallow for hundreds of feet into the water. That makes it a fantastic place for families to come and enjoy a beach day.
Phil Seibel/Google
If you'd like to spend the night, McCarthy Beach State Park has a great campground equipped with showers, flushing toilets, picnic tables, and everything you need to make your stay great.
mandavis925/TripAdvisor

For more information about this beach, take a look at the DNR website. And don’t forget to read about Black Beach, our favorite Minnesota beach that will transport you to another world.

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