Beaver Dam State Park

Beaver Dam State Park is a nature area with a lake surrounded by oak and hickory forests. The grounds offer 8 miles of hiking trails through different landscapes, plus camping sites, picnic areas, and a food concession stand.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources bought the first 425 acres in 1947. Later land purchases expanded the protected area significantly.

The Beaver Dam Lake Club, established in the 1890s by local people, shaped how the area became a place for fishing and boating. This club's vision helped turn the location into a destination where people still gather to enjoy water-based activities today.

Visitors can choose between electric and primitive camping depending on how comfortable they want their stay to be. Picnic areas with grilling options, restrooms, and food service make a day trip easy and manageable.

Although the park's name refers to beavers that once created the lake, these animals no longer live on the grounds today. The name preserves an important piece of the site's natural history.

Location: Macoupin County

Inception: 1947

Website: https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/BeaverDam.aspx

GPS coordinates: 39.21110,-89.97610

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:20