What started out as a simple design for a pond and a dream for a lifelong fisherman, resulted in a beautiful 3 acre lake with a unique barn style restaurant that sits on the banks of the water.  The lake and restaurant were completed and opened for business, September 2008.

The construction of Beaver creek paylake began in the summer of 2007.  The lake and restaurant were drawn up and overseen by the owner, Leo Dowden.  The chief excavator of the lake and "hi-road" was Chad Todd - Plato, MO.   Ron Livermore - Plato, MO was the master behind the layout of the complicated network of water, sewer, electric and countless other ideas compiled by the owner.  The restaurant was built by a few local construction workers, who were able to customize a one of a kind old fashioned barn that is well built and will last for many years to come

The hi-road was built along the bluff, overlooking Beaver Creek.  There was an old WPA road bed that meandered part way up the bluff.  With some sort of vision, Leo, Chad and Ron could see a simple new road.  It would follow the old road as far as it went, but continue up the bluff, through a cedar glade,  through several nice trees and through solid rock.  This would require removing lots of trees, moving a lot of earth, dynamiting a pass through solid rock, trimming lots of trees, hauling off loads of debris and loads of rocks.  Next there would need to be lots of rock hauled back in, lots of chat to be hauled in, lots of new fence to be built and several days of landscaping.  The road would then be in pretty good shape.  All in all it was relatively "simple"

The lake sits just below a cave.   It was filled from several springs that were developed by Leo and Ron.  The lake is approximately 10 ft deep with the water being level with the banks.  This makes for easy access around the lake and to the waters edge to tend to your catch.  The banks were built by adding several loads of gravel and fine chat that were packed just above the water level of the lake.  

Above the lake there is an outdoor seating area known as the "gazeebo".  The gazeebo was built to serve two purposes.  First off, it would be the outdoor eating area.  So far it has been a huge hit.  Most everyone chooses to eat outside.  Second of all, it would serve as a shade for the fish holding tanks that were built directly underneath the gazeebo.

The fish holding tanks consist of one 40 ft long tank which opens into the lake and one smaller tank which holds fish for the restaurant.  Fish are brought in weekly from Arkansas.  They are unloaded into the long tank to adapt to the water, then later released into the lake. 

The restaurant is open Friday through Sunday (starting in April).  U.S.A. farm raised catfish (fresh - never frozen) is the featured menu item, but the restaurant offers several options from burgers to sandwiches to salads to homemade pies.  If you want it we will make it, (or try!!).  

This project was a learning experience.  It took a lot of hard work, talented men, and sleepless nights.  Even at times, it was "fun".  Now that the easy part has been completed, the hard work has just begun!!  Leo is a full time dairy and beef farmer.  His wife, Becky works full time outside the home.  They manage to run the lake on a seasonal basis, four days a week, with the help of family and friends.   

Just before the season opened this April 2009, another gazeebo was added for more outdoor seating.  The addition is attached to the cozy front porch and extends toward the waters edge.  I must say it is a much needed and appreciated addition.  We now have even more room to accomodate folks and host large groups and get togethers.  If you want to reserve a gazeebo for your event (while dining), call ahead to reserve your spot.  If space is available, its yours at no cost!!!!

Beaver Creek Paylake is an experience you dont want to miss.  It is a relaxing place to bring your family, friends, church, school or group.