Hayes Lake State Park is a quiet park located about 25 miles south of Roseau, set within Beltrami Island State Forest. The park centers on Hayes Lake, created by an earthen dam across the North Fork of the Roseau River. The lake and the park itself exist because of that decision.

Long before there was a park or a lake, this was just the river moving through low ground and timber. When the area was first considered for a state park in 1938, planners were looking for places that could offer water recreation without heavy development. An area in southeastern Roseau County stood out. The river flowed through a low area that could retain water without significantly altering the surrounding forest.

One of the people who recognized that potential early on was Albert F. Hayes. Hayes lived in the area and was interested in forestry, conservation, and public lands. He believed some places should be protected and shared, not parceled off or overbuilt. Hayes worked with District Forester Ralph Thompson to walk the land and study the river. Together, they helped identify a site for creating a lake while preserving the forest.

It wasn't until 1965 that the Minnesota Legislature funded a formal feasibility study. Naturalist Les Blacklock came to evaluate the site and spent several days dealing with rain, heat, insects, and mud. Despite the conditions, he documented clear flowing water, a healthy forest, and strong wildlife habitat. His findings confirmed what Hayes and others had been saying for years.

The Minnesota legislature passed legislation in 1967 to create Hayes Lake State Park, named in honor of Albert F. Hayes. Construction of the dam was authorized in 1969-1971. The dam was built primarily of earth to slow the river enough to create a shallow lake suitable for fishing, paddling, swimming, and wildlife, while also managing seasonal water flow.

Later, trails, access points, and camping areas were planned around the lake that formed.

The park was dedicated in 1973, with an opening event that honored Albert F. Hayes and the years of effort and support behind the project.

The dam at Hayes Lake is not large or dramatic, but it is central to the park's story. Without it, there would be no lake. Without the lake, there would be no park as it exists today.