Beeds Lake is a charming 99-acre lake in north-central Iowa, the heart of Beeds Lake State Park near Hampton – notable for its picturesque CCC-built stone spillway and dam. A quiet family lake with a beach, campground and easy fishing, it’s a relaxing stop in Franklin County’s farm country.
This guide covers Beeds Lake: the fishing, the historic state park, and access. It’s part of our growing Iowa Lakes Database.
Beeds Lake at a glance
- Surface area: ~99 acres at Beeds Lake State Park
- Location: Franklin County, north-central Iowa (near Hampton)
- Top fish: largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish
Fishing Beeds Lake
Beeds Lake is a pleasant panfish-and-bass lake: largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and channel catfish. An Iowa fishing license is required. The small, quiet lake is well suited to bank fishing, kayaks and small boats, and it’s an easy, productive spot for families and beginners. Winter brings panfish ice fishing.
The state park and CCC spillway
Beeds Lake State Park dates to the 1930s, and its standout feature is the beautiful stone spillway and dam built by the Civilian Conservation Corps – a picturesque cascade of native limestone that’s a favorite of photographers. The park offers a swimming beach, a campground, picnic areas and a trail around the lake, making it a scenic, history-rich getaway in north-central Iowa.
Getting there and what’s nearby
Beeds Lake is just northwest of Hampton in Franklin County, north-central Iowa, off US-65. Clear Lake and Mason City are about an hour north.
Know before you go
- Fishing license: an Iowa license is required.
- See the spillway: the CCC stone spillway is the park’s scenic highlight.
- Best seasons: spring through fall for bass and panfish; summer for the beach.
Frequently asked questions
What fish are in Beeds Lake?
Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and channel catfish.
What is special about Beeds Lake State Park?
Its picturesque stone spillway and dam, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Where is Beeds Lake?
Just northwest of Hampton in Franklin County, north-central Iowa, off US-65.
Related: explore the small lakes of Iowa, or head back to the Iowa Lakes Database.
