Beeds Lake Campground

beeds lake state park camping

Hello, fellow Iowans! Are you seeking a picturesque and amenity-rich campground that offers both tranquil lakeside relaxation and exciting outdoor adventures? Look no further than Beeds Lake Campground, nestled within the stunning Beeds Lake State Park near Hampton, Iowa. This beloved destination is more than just a place to pitch your tent or park your RV; it's a cherished tradition for many Iowa families and a true gem of our state park system.

Beeds Lake State Park is a centerpiece of Franklin County, renowned for its beautiful 99-acre reservoir and the iconic, most photographed Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built limestone dam in the Midwest. The campground at Beeds Lake offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for all types of campers. Whether you're looking to unwind by the water, explore scenic trails, or simply enjoy quality time with loved ones, Beeds Lake Campground provides an idyllic setting that truly embodies the spirit of Iowa's outdoors. Prepare to fall in love with a place that becomes an adored tradition for generations!

Beeds Lake Campground is ideally situated within Beeds Lake State Park, with its main address being Lake Dr, Hampton, IA 50441, USA. This prime location places it just northwest of the charming town of Hampton, making it easily accessible for Iowans from across the state. Its position within a state park means visitors benefit from well-maintained roads leading to the campground, suitable for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and trailers.

The park's proximity to Hampton ensures that essential services, groceries, and any forgotten items are just a short drive away, providing convenience without detracting from the natural, peaceful camping experience. For those coming from larger Iowa cities, Beeds Lake offers a manageable drive to a true outdoor escape. The park is often a hub of activity during peak seasons, but its design aims to provide a welcoming environment for all. Its designation as a state park ensures good infrastructure and accessibility to the lake and various recreational areas within the park.

• Diverse Campsite Options: Beeds Lake Campground offers a variety of campsites, including those with electrical hookups (30 and 50 amp services available) for RVs and trailers, as well as non-electric sites ideal for tent campers. There are over 140 sites in total, including two full hookup sites.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: The campground features two modern restroom and shower facilities, ensuring comfort and convenience for all campers. These facilities are generally opened by May 1st and closed around mid-October, depending on weather.
• Sanitary Dump Station: For RVers, a convenient sanitary dump station is available on-site, making waste disposal easy.
• Water Hydrants: Water hydrants are operational within the campground, providing access to potable water.
• Online Reservations & First-Come, First-Served: Many campsites can be reserved up to three months in advance through the Iowa State Parks reservation system, while approximately 20 sites are available for self-registration on a first-come, first-served basis, including the full hookup sites.
• Pets Allowed: Pets are welcome in the campground, provided they are kept on a leash (not exceeding 6 feet) and are not left unattended. Pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals.
• Trash Disposal: Dumpsters are available for trash disposal, helping to keep the park clean.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings (Inferred): While not explicitly stated for every site, state park campgrounds typically provide picnic tables and fire rings (where campfires are allowed) at individual campsites for visitor convenience. Note: Some sources indicate "No campfire allowed" in general for the park, so check current rules.
• Camp Host Site: There is a host site at the campground for assistance and inquiries.

• Beautiful Lake Views: The campground offers "beautiful lake view" and access to the picturesque 99-acre Beeds Lake, providing a serene backdrop for camping.
• Historic CCC Dam and Spillway: A major highlight is the magnificent limestone dam and spillway, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. It's described as one of the most photographed dams in the Midwest, offering a unique visual and a refreshing mist from its waterfall.
• Two-Mile Lake Trail: A scenic two-mile trail encircles Beeds Lake, offering unique hiking, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and jogging opportunities with beautiful views. Visitors can also hike to the base of the dam.
• Sandy Swimming Beach: A designated sandy beach on the south side of the lake provides a perfect spot for swimming and cooling off during warm Iowa summers.
• Fishing Opportunities: Beeds Lake is a popular year-round destination for anglers, with bass, catfish, and panfish. Several fishing jetties and docks are located on the south shore, including accessible options. The causeway also offers excellent shoreline fishing.
• Boating (No-Wake): The lake is popular for boating, allowing motors of any size at "no wake" speeds, perfect for relaxed cruising, kayaking, and canoeing. A modern boat ramp is available on the southern shore.
• Picnic Areas and Shelters: The park features grassy, shaded picnic areas and two open stone shelters (one can be reserved online), ideal for family gatherings and cookouts.
• Rental Lodge: The historic stone and timber beach building, also CCC-built, has been converted into a rental lodge with dining areas, a kitchen, and restrooms, perfect for events like reunions or parties.
• Bird Watching: The park attracts a variety of bird species, including waterfowl and songbirds, with trails circling the lake for easy viewing.
• Community Events: The "Friends of Beeds Lake" group sponsors events like an omelet breakfast on the Fourth of July weekend and a 5K/10K/half marathon in late August, contributing to the park's vibrant community feel.

Address: Lake Dr, Hampton, IA 50441, USA

Phone: (641) 456-2047 (Iowa DNR phone for Beeds Lake State Park)

For reservations: Iowa State Parks Reservation System (online or via phone 1-877-427-2757)

For Iowans seeking a classic, well-rounded outdoor experience, Beeds Lake Campground within Beeds Lake State Park is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination. It truly embodies what makes Iowa's state parks so beloved, offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and convenient amenities right in our own backyard.

Firstly, its accessible location near Hampton makes it an ideal choice for residents across Iowa. Whether you're planning a quick weekend escape or a longer family vacation, the straightforward drive allows for more time to enjoy the park's offerings. For those who cherish local history, the iconic CCC-built dam is a significant draw, serving as a beautiful landmark and a testament to Iowa's heritage, providing a unique backdrop for camping and exploration.

Secondly, Beeds Lake Campground provides a comprehensive array of services and features designed to ensure a comfortable and engaging experience. With a mix of electric and non-electric sites, it caters to both RV enthusiasts and traditional tent campers. The presence of modern restrooms and showers, along with a sanitary dump station, elevates the comfort level, allowing campers to truly relax. The beautiful 99-acre lake itself is a focal point, offering a sandy swimming beach perfect for cooling off on hot summer days, and ample opportunities for no-wake boating, fishing, and kayaking. These readily available water activities are a huge draw for Iowa families looking to make the most of our beautiful lakes.

Beyond the water, the park boasts a scenic two-mile trail looping the lake, inviting locals to hike, bike, or simply stroll and soak in the natural beauty. This trail offers unique views, including the refreshing mist from the dam's base, making every walk an adventure. The park's commitment to maintenance, ensuring clean grounds and facilities, contributes significantly to a pleasant stay, allowing Iowans to fully enjoy their outdoor time without worries. Furthermore, the community spirit fostered by events like the Fourth of July breakfast and the late-August races, organized by the "Friends of Beeds Lake," adds a vibrant social dimension, making it easy for locals to connect and create new traditions.

In conclusion, Beeds Lake Campground at Beeds Lake State Park is more than just a place to camp; it's a cherished Iowa institution that offers a perfect blend of relaxation, recreation, and historical significance. For any Iowan seeking beautiful lake views, engaging outdoor activities, and well-maintained facilities for a memorable camping trip, Beeds Lake Campground is a truly excellent and easily accessible choice right here in our home state.

Beeds Lake Campground

Lake Dr, Hampton, IA 50441, USA