C C Campground 717

🌲 Introduction / Overview

For visitors heading deep into Minnesota's revered Iron Range country, specifically toward the stunning waters of Side Lake and Sturgeon Lake, C C Campground 717 serves as a vital and highly convenient stopping point. While numerous state park options exist nearby, C C Campground 717 is primarily known and appreciated by local users for its excellent on-site convenience store, gas station, and ancillary services, which are critical when recreating in this beautiful, yet remote, region of the Northwoods.

Located immediately adjacent to the entrance area of the popular McCarthy Beach State Park, this private facility provides a pragmatic basecamp option, particularly appealing to those seeking easy access to fuel, quick supplies, and grab-and-go refreshments. Many local campers rely on this location not just for parking an RV, but as the essential service hub before or after a full day of swimming, boating, or hiking in the nearby State Park.

The business model appears to focus on long-term RV parking and providing retail convenience to the surrounding area. While a portion of the business is dedicated to the campground side (often catering to seasonal or permanent campers), the on-site store and gas station are the clear highlights, frequently mentioned for their convenience and product offerings—including a highly praised selection of ice cream flavors, a perfect treat after a sunny day on Sturgeon Lake.

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🗺️ Location and Accessibility

C C Campground 717 boasts an incredibly strategic location on the main road leading into the beloved McCarthy Beach State Park, making it practically unavoidable and exceptionally easy to access for anyone visiting the area.

Address: 7595 McCarthy Beach Rd, Side Lake, MN 55781, USA

The location is set in the small community of Side Lake, nestled in the vast forests of St. Louis County, a central point for exploring the recreational offerings of the State Park and the surrounding George Washington State Forest. Its position right on McCarthy Beach Road ensures visitors can find it easily, even without complex GPS navigation.

Key Accessibility Information:

• Proximity to State Park: The facility is directly on the road leading to McCarthy Beach State Park, famous for its long, sandy beach on Sturgeon Lake. This proximity is a major benefit for quick supply runs.
• Road Access: Located off County Road 5, it provides reliable, paved-road access, making it suitable for all vehicle types, including large RVs and trucks needing a fuel stop.
• Local Hub: The business acts as one of the primary commercial spots in the Side Lake area, often serving as the general meeting point or primary resource for goods and services near the lake.
• Parking Note: Customer feedback suggests that while the convenience of the gas station is excellent, parking can be a little busy and not endless, particularly during peak summer hours when traffic is high.

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🛠️ Services Offered

The primary draw of C C Campground 717 extends well beyond typical campsite amenities, focusing heavily on convenience and retail services critical to vacationers in the Side Lake region.

The following services are typically offered on-site:

• Gas Station / Fuel Services: A readily accessible gas station for refueling vehicles, which is a major convenience when exploring remote trails and lakes.
• On-Site Convenience Store: A well-stocked convenience store offering plentiful options, including groceries, snacks, camping supplies, and various recreational items. Store hours are generally reliable, often open early to late (e.g., 6 am – 9 pm, 7 days a week).
• Ice Cream & Refreshments: A notable highlight is the selection of frozen treats, with customers praising the variety and quality of the ice cream, such as the "amazing" black cherry flavor.
• Apparel & Souvenirs: The store often carries local merchandise, including T-shirts and other items, perfect for souvenirs or practical use.
• ATM & Pull Tabs: The facility often includes an ATM for quick cash withdrawals and may offer Minnesota-style Pull Tabs for casual entertainment.
• Limited RV Parking: While the full campground may primarily cater to seasonal or permanent campers with yearly leases, the overall facility provides services that support RV travelers in the immediate area.

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⭐ Features / Highlights

The reputation of C C Campground 717 is built less on secluded campsites and more on its functional and commercial features that cater directly to the needs of the Northern Minnesota tourist.

• Unbeatable Convenience: The undisputed main feature is the highly convenient and easy-to-access gas station and store, eliminating the need for a long drive back to larger towns like Hibbing for essential supplies.
• Direct Access to McCarthy Beach: Its location makes it a quick supply run destination for anyone spending the day at the nearby Sturgeon Lake beach, often voted one of the top beaches in North America for its long, sandy shoreline.
• A Dessert Destination: The excellent ice cream selection has become a local highlight, drawing repeat customers specifically for a post-lake treat and the chance to sample different flavors.
• A Reliable Resource Hub: As a year-round facility, C C Campground 717 provides a consistent point of contact for necessities in an area where seasonal businesses are common, offering security and reliability to local residents and regular visitors.
• Supporting Local Recreation: By providing fuel, supplies, and proximity to both Side Lake and Sturgeon Lake, the business actively supports all activities in the area, from fishing and boating to the park's extensive hiking and equestrian trails.

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📞 Contact Information

For inquiries regarding the store, gas station, or any potential limited availability for transient camping, the primary contact information is as follows:

Address: 7595 McCarthy Beach Rd, Side Lake, MN 55781, USA

Phone: (218) 254-5301

Mobile Phone: +1 218-254-5301

It is always advisable to call ahead for the most current operating hours, especially if planning a visit outside of the peak summer season or if inquiring about non-retail services.

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✅ What is Worth Choosing

C C Campground 717 is absolutely worth choosing if your top priority is unrivaled convenience and the ability to easily access essentials while vacationing in the McCarthy Beach State Park area.

It is worth choosing because it simplifies your Northwoods trip. For RVers and campers staying at the State Park or nearby cabins, having an accessible gas station and well-stocked store literally steps from your recreation area is an invaluable time-saver. You won't waste precious vacation time driving long distances for basic necessities, allowing you more hours on the water or the beach.

It is worth choosing for the daily conveniences. While customer service reviews are mixed, the sheer utility of the business is undeniable. Whether you need fuel, ice, a forgotten snack, or a delicious, tart black cherry ice cream cone, this location is the dependable commercial resource that keeps your vacation running smoothly. It’s the ultimate amenity for the modern Minnesota camper who doesn't want to sacrifice all convenience for a wilderness getaway.