Beaver Dam State Park

Need to get away from it all? Enjoy some quiet time in nature with your pup at Beaver Dam State Park! Located 7 miles southwest of Carlinville, this 750-acre site offers a host of recreational opportunities for both human and canine outdoor enthusiasts. Your furry pal will certainly appreciate exploring this oak and hickory woodland, so pack up your gear and hop into the car—it's time for a trip to Beaver Dam State Park!

Named for the beaver dam that created its 59-acre lake, the park contains ruffly 8 miles of trails for you and your adventurous pooch to tackle. Follow the trails around the lake, past the marsh, and into various wooded areas. Although you won't find beavers in the park anymore, its diverse landscape is home to several other wildlife species. As you and Fido traverse upland and bottomland forests, open fields, and farmland, you may encounter deer, raccoons, wild turkeys, foxes, and grey squirrels. Keep your ears open for the songs of bluebirds, finches, cardinals, nuthatches, and cuckoos, too. 

If you and your pup need a break from walking around, head to the picnic area to refuel with a packed lunch. Aside from picnic tables, grills are also provided should you feel like having a barbecue. After you've filled your tummies, take a relaxing boat ride and explore the lake with your woofer. A boat launch and docks are available for free. Don't forget to bring Fido's life jacket! 

Want to extend your adventure? Beaver Dam State Park offers tent and trailer camping for overnighters. All sites are nestled in wooded areas with large trees, so you and your pupper can enjoy pleasant shade throughout most of the day. Whether you stay for a day or a weekend, always keep your pooch on a leash and clean up after them. 

Discover the rugged beauty of Macoupin County with your doggo at Beaver Dam State Park!