Description
Beed's Lake State Park is a centerpiece of Franklin County. The park's beautiful limestone Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) dam is the most photographed dam in the Midwest. Access to the dam is on the east side of the lake. The causeway was originally built to store water for the raceway to the mill, which was located downstream from the current dam.Recreation:
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
A sandy beach for swimming is located on the south side of the lake, near the lodge and causeway.
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. Jet skis or high-speed boating is not allowed on the lake. A modern boat ramp is located on the southern shore of the lake.
Facilities:
Picnicking/Shelters/Lodge
Beed's Lake State Park is a beautiful place for a family picnic or cookout. Its grassy shaded picnic areas provide many opportunities for relaxation. One open shelter may be reserved online. The stone and timber beach building built by the Civilian Conservation Corps has been converted to a rental lodge and is a perfect place to host a graduation party, family reunion or small wedding reception. The lodge is complete with dining areas, a kitchen and restrooms and may be reserved online.
Camping
Beed's Lake has a very popular campground with both electric and non-electric campsites. A modern restroom and shower facilities are available, as is a sanitary dump station.
Nearby Attractions:
The City of Hampton is located three miles from Beed's Lake. Other towns nearby are Latimer and Hansel.
Alerts and Important Information
None