Description - Beed's Lake State Park has provided visitors with a variety of recreational
opportunities since 1934. One unique feature of the park is the causeway that
crosses the lake near the lodge. It provides more than one-third of a mile of
great shoreline fishing as well as a convenient pathway for hikers and
joggers. Another focal point of the park is the unusual 170 foot-long spillway
with horizontal layers of limestone dropping abruptly 40 feet. It was built by
the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
In 1857, T.K. Hansbury built the first dam to supply water for the
operation of a sawmill. Two years later, water power was used to operate a
flour mill. William Beed put in the long causeway when he bought the
property in 1864. He operated the mill until 1903.
Attractions
- Picnicking/Shelters/Lodge
Beed's Lake is an ideal place for a family cookout. Its grassy and shaded
picnic areas provide many opportunities for relaxation. The stone and timber
beach building built by the Civilian Conservation Corps has been converted to
a rental lodge. The lodge is complete with dining areas, a kitchen and rest
rooms and may be reserved for a fee through the concessionaire (641) 425-
0413.
Camping
Beed's Lake has a very popular campground. A total of 99 of the 144
sites have electrical hookups. Modern restroom and shower facilities are
available, as is a sanitary dump station. Camping permits are obtained by
self-registration at the campground. Camping Fees can be paid at the site.
Trails
A two-mile trail provides a unique hiking experience for visitors as it
follows the shoreline around Beed's Lake. At the spillway, visitors can hike to
the base of the dam and experience a cool refreshing mist as water rolls
down the beautiful limestone face. This trail may be utilized by hikers,
bicyclists, cross-country skiers and joggers.
Lake Activities (swimming, boating, fishing)
The sandy beach for swimming is located on the south side of the lake,
near the lodge and causeway. It is a great place to enjoy the water on a hot
summer day.
The beautiful lake, fed by Spring Creek, is a popular destination for
anglers, year-round. Bass, catfish, and panfish are available to challenge
anglers. Several fishing jetties and docks are located on the south shore of
the lake and are accessible to mobility impaired visitors.
Beed's Lake is a popular boating spot due to its scenic beauty. Motors of
any size may be used at "no wake" speeds on the lake. A modern boat ramp
is located on the southern shore of the lake.
Location -
The City of Hampton is located three miles from Beed's Lake.
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