Beeds Lake State Park
00 review1422 165th St, Hampton, Iowa, 50441, United States
Beeds Lake State Park
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
The provided source does not specify fees for camping at Beeds Lake State Park.
About this campground
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.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHandicap access is available for various facilities, including fishing jetties and docks.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews mention that campsites are 'too close together,' indicating limited privacy.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNull
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites were highlighted as being the best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutNull
Open and Closed SeasonNo specific details provided about open and closed seasons.
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.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
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.
Hiking
A 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.Fishing
Fishing is popular year-round, with species such as bass, catfish, and panfish available. Several jetties and docks are accessible for mobility-impaired visitors.Swimming
A sandy beach on the lake's south side is designated for swimming, located near the lodge and causeway.Biking
Trails around the lake are accessible to bicyclists.Boating
The 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 viewing
Visitors can engage in bird watching and other wildlife viewing activities.Beach activities
Beach activities are centered around a sandy beach area, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.Winter Activities
Trails are open for cross-country skiing during the winter.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are likely possible given the lake's no-wake policy, though not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire policies are not described.
- Quiet hours are No information provided.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include typical outdoor risks such as uneven terrain and wildlife.
Active alertsNo active alerts were mentioned in the provided materials.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Hospital services and other emergency services are available in Hampton, 3 miles from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available within the facility, but recycling options are not mentioned.
Proximity to 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.
Common complaintsSome visitors have noted that campsites are 'too close together.' Another user review mentioned dissatisfaction with restroom facilities, particularly during the off-season when modern restrooms are unavailable.
HostNull
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Beeds Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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
What Campers Love
'Great fishing and great camping site. Nice place for picnics.' Many users have praised the lake and its recreational opportunities.
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.
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.
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.
Camper Quotes
'Had a nice hike around the lake for the first time this visit.' 'Campsites too close together.'
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite reviews are not provided; however, concerns about campsite proximity were noted generally.
Accessibility Features
Accessible fishing docks and jetties are appreciated by mobility-impaired visitors.
Last updated August 10, 2025