Beebe Lake County Park — Attraction in St. Michael

First and foremost, as a wheelchair user, I need to address the accessibility. The parking lots are big, but there are only 4 handicap spots. That makes it tough on busy days because I can't just park anywhere unless there are 2 spots side by side so I can double park. I appreciate the paved walkway down to the beach, bathrooms, and park, but it's very steep. I'm strong enough that I can go up it myself, but I have to go backwards to prevent tipping backwards. While there is technically a stall that likely fits within the ADA guidelines, it's not even wide enough to turn around in it, so not only do ai have to back out of it, but I have to do a 180° transfer to the toilet without falling. If you need an aid to use the bathroom, forget it. My chair is up to my knees when I'm on the toilet. One thing I really appreciate, though, is the mat for wheelchair users that leads to the water. Sand gets thrown over it or washed up from the waves, but it's still very helpful because the entire lakefront is a sandy beach.

Overall and for the average person, Beebe is an excellent place for swimming, playing volleyball, having celebrations, and grilling. It has ample lakefront space so everyone isn't on top of each other and they must do some heavy weed control, because the swimming area has been very clear compared to most lakes/beaches. There are plenty of trees and picnic tables in the grassy areas above and by the lake, a nice playground, an outdoor shower to rinse off, a water fountain, and bathrooms with an open changing area and hot/cold running water. There's a covered pavillion you can rent with tons of picnic tables and a few electrical outlets.

It could use some changes to make it more accessible for wheelchair users, like more designated parking and a wider accessible stall, but I still love making a trip to Beebe...

Beebe Lake Park had clean, well kept grounds. The sandy volleyball courts and public grills were in good condition as was were the out houses. You can tell this park is routinely tended. No lifeguards at the beach so just beware if you have younger kids or weak swimmers. The well tended trails, beach, and grounds brings many visitors. The swimming beach was sandy with few rocks. The swimming area and fishing dock area can get crowded. Not all visitors seem to know the difference despite the posted signs so you can get swimmers far to close to be able to fish safely from the dock. There is a playground for kids in good order and there are several picnic tables around as well as a sheltered pavilion which can be rented out. I have enjoyed this park each time I have visited. There was no cost...

Love this lake and the beach/park! Very long Beach so there is tons of room (both sun and shaded), it actually expanded this year (the fishing pier was moved away from the swimming area). There's also a big playground, walking trails, and picnic area with grills near the beach. Highly recommend, we even drive out of our way to go to this beach (30 mins from our house). It is definitely getting busier with St Michael expanding with new development but still a lovely park. The lake is beautiful as well and great for boat and...