I've an extra set of spoked GL wheels that I've been wanting to restore. Started grinding rust off but once I had tires removed the bead seat area seems to be far too gone.

Started grinding at the worst part and although it did smooth it out idk if it's going to take those chunks off. What do you think? Are they too far gone? And how smooth does this area need to be?

You are going to have a hell of a time getting those to hold air. Shouldn't be hard to find another set to work on.

I still see a few big rust flakes in the bottom picture.  Tap them with a cold chisel and hammer.   I don't think I would bother with those rims.  

Bail out and start saving some spare change for a set from another enthusiast. 

Maybe select the best one and have that as a spare just so you feel good about trying to salvage those beads. As mentioned , might not hold air if they all look as bad. 

 

Good luck.