Beeds Lake State Park

4.60

20 reviews

1422 165th St, Hampton, Iowa, 50441, United States

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

1,132 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

No specific details ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Beeds Lake State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,132 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

No specific details ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Beeds Lake State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Beeds Lake State Park

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The provided source does not specify fees for camping at Beeds Lake State Park.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.60

Top-Rated

Based on 20 reviews

15 Google reviews

Most mentioned

lake

"User reviews express enjoyment of camping, hiking, and fishing at Beed's Lake State Park. Some concerns about campsite proximity and off-season facilities were noted."

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Campground Map

1422 165th St, Hampton, Iowa, 50441, United States

Beeds Lake State Park

1422 165th St, Hampton, Iowa, 50441, United States

Driving directions2 miles west of Hampton on Hwy 3 and 1 mile north on S42 Or 7 miles east of Interstate 35 on Hwy 3 and 1 mile north on S42.

Good accessibility from major roads via Hwy 3 and S42. No specific seasonal closures or challenging terrain are mentioned.

Nearby places

Hampton (3 miles), Latimer (approx. 7 miles), Hansell (approx. 10 miles).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Hampton, 3 miles away. Additional amenities can be accessed in Latimer and Hansell.

Best Time to Camp at Beeds Lake State Park

Each season paints Beeds Lake in a different palette of experiences. Summer transforms the park into a sun-drenched playground, where warm breezes ripple across the water and long, golden evenings invite lingering conversations around picnic tables. As autumn arrives, the surrounding landscape erupts in amber and crimson. Winter brings its own quiet magic—the lake surface mirrors steel-gray skies while light snow dusts the historic dam, creating a serene wonderland perfect for contemplative walks despite the freezing temperatures.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 10% in IA

Summer: sandy beach, swimming, boating, and warm-weather activities highlighted.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Trails and scenic lake views make fall pleasant; likely fewer crowds.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring fishing and trails attractive; some off-season facility limitations noted.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Cross-country skiing occurs but off-season facilities (restrooms) may be closed.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: No specific details provided about open and closed seasons.
Current Alerts: No active alerts were mentioned in the provided materials.

About Beeds Lake State Park

Nestled in the heart of Franklin County, Beeds Lake State Park beckons visitors with its perfect blend of natural beauty and living history. This beloved Iowa treasure centers around a sparkling lake crowned by an impressive limestone dam—a testament to the craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Whether you're casting a line into the peaceful waters, exploring scenic trails, or spreading a blanket for an afternoon picnic, this park offers an authentic escape into Iowa's outdoor heritage.

Beed's Lake State Park offers both electric and non-electric campsites, along with a lodge for group events.

Historical SignificanceThe crown jewel of Beeds Lake is its magnificent limestone dam, a enduring monument to the determination and skill of the Civilian Conservation Corps workers who shaped it during the Great Depression. This architectural marvel doesn't just hold back water—it holds stories of young men who transformed both the landscape and their own futures through hard work and dedication. Today, visitors can run their hands along the same stones placed decades ago, connecting with a pivotal chapter in American history.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Beeds Lake in a different palette of experiences. Summer transforms the park into a sun-drenched playground, where warm breezes ripple across the water and long, golden evenings invite lingering conversations around picnic tables. As autumn arrives, the surrounding landscape erupts in amber and crimson. Winter brings its own quiet magic—the lake surface mirrors steel-gray skies while light snow dusts the historic dam, creating a serene wonderland perfect for contemplative walks despite the freezing temperatures.

ElevationThe gentle Iowa terrain cradles Beeds Lake in a natural basin, creating an intimate landscape that feels both accessible and secluded from the wider world.

Natural Features and SceneryA two-mile ribbon of trail encircles the shimmering lake, inviting morning joggers and evening strollers to discover new perspectives with each bend. The sandy beach offers a slice of summer paradise in the heartland, where children build castles and families cool off in the refreshing waters. Ancient trees cast dappled shadows across emerald lawns, creating perfect spots for picnic spreads and afternoon naps. Throughout it all, the limestone dam stands as both a scenic backdrop and a reminder of human harmony with nature.

Geological RegionBeeds Lake State Park showcases the subtle beauty of Franklin County's Iowa landscape, where glacial forces once carved gentle valleys and depressions that would later cradle this scenic lake. The park's centerpiece—the CCC-built limestone dam—represents a fascinating intersection of natural geology and human engineering, where local stone was expertly crafted to enhance the natural water feature. This harmonious blend of geological heritage and historical craftsmanship creates a unique destination that tells the story of both Iowa's ancient past and its more recent history.

Best Campsites

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Check-in

Null

Check-out

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Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutNull

Reservation PlatformsReservations for the lodge and picnic shelters can be made online as per the official park description.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo details provided for walk-up availability or first-come, first-served camping policies.

Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy information provided.

AccessibilityHandicap access is available for various facilities, including fishing jetties and docks.

PrivacyUser reviews mention that campsites are 'too close together,' indicating limited privacy.

Recommended SitesNull

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Lodging and accommodations

Activities you can enjoy

Beed's Lake State Park provides a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and wildlife viewing. Some trails are accessible for biking, jogging, and cross-country skiing.

HikingA two-mile trail circles the shoreline of Beed's Lake, offering unique hiking experiences. Visitors can hike to the base of the dam for a refreshing mist. Trails are accessible for hikers, bicyclists, cross-country skiers, and joggers.

FishingFishing is popular year-round, with species such as bass, catfish, and panfish available. Several jetties and docks are accessible for mobility-impaired visitors.

SwimmingA sandy beach on the lake's south side is designated for swimming, located near the lodge and causeway.

BikingTrails around the lake are accessible to bicyclists.

BoatingThe lake supports no-wake motorized boating, and a modern boat ramp is located on the southern shore. Jet skis and high-speed boating are prohibited.

Wildlife viewingVisitors can engage in bird watching and other wildlife viewing activities.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include typical outdoor risks such as uneven terrain and wildlife.

Active AlertsNo active alerts were mentioned in the provided materials.

Fire PolicyCampfire policies are not described.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are No information provided.

Emergency ServicesHospital services and other emergency services are available in Hampton, 3 miles from the campground.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are available within the facility, but recycling options are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe campground is situated around Beeds Lake, fed by Spring Creek. It includes a sandy beach and is highly accessible for lake activities such as fishing and boating.

Camp HostNull

Weather at Beeds Lake State Park

Reviews

4.6

20 reviews

Top-Rated

Beeds Lake State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews express enjoyment of camping, hiking, and fishing at Beed's Lake State Park. Some concerns about campsite proximity and off-season facilities were noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 20 reviews

What Campers Love

'Great fishing and great camping site. Nice place for picnics.' Many users have praised the lake and its recreational opportunities.

Based on 20 reviews

Common Concerns

Campsites were described as 'too close together,' and there were mentions of older vault toilets needing updates. Off-season facilities such as modern restrooms and water were unavailable.

Based on 20 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

If camping during the off-season, be aware that modern restrooms and water will be turned off, and vault toilets may be limited to certain areas.

Based on 20 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Off-season camping sees the modern restrooms turned off, leading to user complaints. Seasonal activities such as cross-country skiing attract visitors during winter.

Based on 20 reviews