Beeds Lake State Park

Beeds Lake State Park is a state park in Franklin County featuring a 99-acre reservoir held back by a limestone dam. The area is surrounded by about 2 miles of trails that wind through natural woodland areas.

The Civilian Conservation Corps built the park's infrastructure in the 1930s, including the current dam that replaced an earlier structure from 1857. These Depression-era construction efforts transformed the landscape permanently.

The stone and timber lodge from the Great Depression era serves as a gathering space for community events and family gatherings. Local residents use the space for social occasions throughout the year.

The park has 144 camping sites, with 99 equipped with electrical connections, plus modern restrooms, showers, and a sanitary disposal station. These facilities make an extended stay comfortable and convenient.

The 170-foot limestone spillway drops about 40 feet and creates a water cascade effect that makes this dam a popular photo spot in the region. The sight is particularly striking after heavy rainfall.

Location: Franklin County

Inception: 1934

Elevation above the sea: 345 m

Website: https://iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Iowa-State-Parks/Beeds-Lake-State-Park

GPS coordinates: 42.77053,-93.24492

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:44