Beeds Lake State Park
Beeds Lake State Park centers on one of the most photographed dams in the Midwest – a stunning 170-foot-wide stone spillway built by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1934-1936. This 319-acre park surrounds a 100-acre lake and showcases Depression-era craftsmanship that has stood the test of time for nearly a century.
Beyond the iconic dam, Beeds Lake offers a sandy swimming beach, excellent panfishing, and a renovated CCC-built lodge available for rental. It’s the perfect family destination in north-central Iowa.
What Makes Beeds Lake Special
Iconic Stone Dam
The 170-foot-wide, 20-foot-tall limestone spillway dam is one of the finest examples of CCC stonework in Iowa. Walk to the base for the best views and photos.
CCC Heritage
Built 1934-1936, the dam, beach lodge, causeway, and footbridge showcase exceptional Depression-era craftsmanship still in daily use.
Sandy Beach
A family-friendly beach on the lake’s south side offers swimming, with the renovated CCC beach building nearby.
100-Acre Lake
Great fishing for bass, bluegill, catfish, and crappie. Electric motors only – peaceful and quiet.
The Stone Dam
The spillway dam is Beeds Lake’s crown jewel. Built entirely of local limestone by CCC workers during the Great Depression, it creates a “human-made waterfall” when water flows over the top. Photography tips:
- 📸 Best View: Walk to the base of the dam via the trail from the parking area
- 🌅 Best Light: Morning sun illuminates the limestone face
- 💧 Best Flow: After rain, when water cascades dramatically over the spillway
Things to Do
| Activity | Details | Best Season |
|---|---|---|
| 🏊 Swimming | Guarded beach with bathhouse (check advisories) | Memorial Day–Labor Day |
| 🎣 Fishing | Bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie | Year-round |
| 🛶 Boating | Electric motors only; rentals may be available | Spring–Fall |
| 🥾 Hiking | 4 miles of trails around lake | Year-round |
| 🏕️ Camping | 100+ modern campsites | April–October |
| 📸 Photography | Dam spillway is a must-capture | Year-round |
Hiking Trails
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Loop Trail | 2.5 mi | 🟢 Easy | Circles the lake; dam views at north end |
| Spillway Trail | 0.5 mi | 🟢 Easy | Direct access to dam overlook and base |
| Woodland Trail | 1.0 mi | 🟢 Easy | Shaded forest walk; connects campground |
Camping Information
| Site Type | Count | Hookups | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric Sites | ~60 | 30/50 amp | Near showers, lake access |
| Non-Electric Sites | ~40 | None | More wooded and private |
Amenities: Modern restrooms, showers, dump station, playground. All sites 100% reservable.
CCC Beach Lodge
The original CCC bathhouse has been beautifully renovated into a rental lodge featuring:
- Dining areas for groups
- Full kitchen facilities
- Restrooms
- Available for weddings, reunions, and events
Contact the park office for rental information and availability.
Fishing Guide
| Species | Best Time | Where to Fish |
|---|---|---|
| 🐟 Largemouth Bass | May–September | Weed edges, near dam |
| 🔵 Bluegill | May–August | Shallow areas, near docks |
| 🐱 Channel Catfish | Summer nights | Deep areas, cut bait |
| ⬜ Crappie | Spring, fall | Brush piles, structure |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk on top of the dam?
Yes! The top of the stone dam doubles as a walkway with beautiful views of both the lake and the spillway cascade below.
Are kayaks allowed?
Yes, non-motorized watercraft are welcome. Electric motors are permitted; gas motors are prohibited.
Is the beach safe for swimming?
Check beach advisories before swimming – the beach occasionally closes for water quality issues. Check the Iowa DNR beach monitoring dashboard or call the park.
🧱 See Iowa’s Most Iconic Dam
Beeds Lake combines CCC craftsmanship with genuine Iowa hospitality. The stone spillway is one of the most photographed structures in Iowa’s state park system.
📍 Address: 1422 165th St, Hampton, IA 50441
📞 Phone: (641) 456-2047
🌐 Reservations: iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com
