Beeds Lake State Park in Hampton, Iowa is one of the state’s lesser-known state parks – but that just means it’s a hidden gem waiting for you to discover. While its charming grounds and trails are an attraction in and of itself, the real highlight comes when you find the water. It’s not just a bucket-list worthy lake for swimming and recreation, it’ll bring you right up to one of the state’s most stunning waterfalls.

Beeds Lake State Park in Hampton, Iowa, is a long drive from any major city.
P & G S/TripAdvisor
But it's worth it for a little slice of nature in the summer.
The charming state park is full of beautiful old buildings.
Ann Sullivan-Larson/Wikipedia
Each one provides its own story and is teeming with Iowa history.
The trails in the park are easy to hike, and some take you right up to the water.
Jake Fields/AllTrails
The lake here is one of the most beautiful lakes in the state.
And speaking of that water - the crystal-clear Beeds Lake has a sandy beach.
P & G S/TripAdvisor
Here you can swim and there is also a larger lake ideal for boating and fishing.
But the main attraction of Beeds Lake State Park is on the other end...
TravelIowa
... where there is a dramatic spillway leading to a manmade waterfall.
For a much closer look at this wonder, head down one of the ground-level trails.
Destiny Meyer/AllTrails
If you love to hike, these trails will amaze you!
There are many amazing views of this tiered, uniform waterfall now covered with moss.
Nailuj110/TripAdvisor
It is really a photographer's dream!
You'll want to get up close to give the smooth, rhythmic motion of the water a clear look.
Nailuj110/TripAdvisor
It really is a beautiful sight to see and thing to feel.
Beeds Lake State Park is definitely one of the most peaceful places in Iowa.
Management/TripAdvisor
And you'll want to give it a prime spot on your bucket list.

Have you dropped by this beautiful state park and taken in the simple joys of its swimming hole and waterfall? Let us know all about your trip in the comments section below. The park is open year-round, but amenities may vary by season. Visit the official state website for more information about what’s waiting for you at this little slice of Iowa heaven.

For other fun swimming holes in The Buckeye State, be sure to read this article about 10 swimming holes that are a must visit.

If you’re still in the mood for more Iowa adventures, take a look at this video:

 

 

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Exploring Beautiful Iowa

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | May 05, 2023

Where can we find other state parks in Iowa?

  • Pikes Peak State Park in McGregor features a 500-foot-tall bluff and a massive canyon.
  • Backbone State Park in Delaware County encompasses a lake, caves, rivers, and more.
  • Ledges State Park near Boone extends some 1,200 acres peppered with beautiful forest areas.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other wonderful state parks in Iowa.

Where can we find campgrounds in Iowa?

  • Maquoketa Caves State Park in Maquoketa offers a wide array of both primitive and partially serviced campsites.
  • Coralville Lake near Coralville features about 500 campsites and activities including boating and swimming.
  • Stone State Park in Sioux City has traditional campsites as well as cabins with HVAC.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other beautiful campgrounds in Iowa.

Where can we find scenic drives in Iowa?

  • The Delaware Crossing Scenic Byway is a 36-mile drive that skirts along Lake Delhi.
  • The Loess Hills Scenic Byway stretches 220 miles and features the Broken Kettle Grasslands, Preparation Canyon State Park, and more along the way.
  • The Grant Wood Scenic Byway stretches for 75 miles and features historic markers, scenic overlooks, and more.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other scenic drives in Iowa.

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Featured Addresses
Beeds Lake State Park, 1422 165th St, Hampton, IA 50441, USA