Park Shelter Reservations

Make your next party or family outing special by hosting it in one of West Des Moines' beautiful parks. You can start making reservations for the year in early January.

How to Reserve a Shelter

The quickest way to book is through our online system. You can view which dates are open and submit your request instantly.

Request a Shelter Online

You may also reserve a shelter by phone or in person:

  • By Phone: Call us at 515-222-3444.
  • In Person: Visit the Parks and Recreation Office at 4200 Mills Civic Parkway.

Reservable Shelters & Capacity

The following shelters can be reserved between April 15 and October 15. If a shelter is not rented, it is available for anyone to use for free on a first-come, first-served basis.

Park Name Capacity
American Legion Park 75 people
Brookview Park 50 people
Crossroads Park 60 people
Fairmeadows Park 60 people
Pearson Park 60 people
Raccoon River Park (Biddle Rotary) 75 people
Raccoon River Park (Coneflower A, B, or C) 50 people each
Valley View Park 75 people

Rental Rules & Fees

  • Cost: $15 per hour (4-hour minimum). Your rental time must include your setup and clean-up time.
  • Refunds: All fees are non-refundable. If you need to change the date or time, there is a $10 fee.
  • Weather: If bad weather affects your event, call us within 3 business days to discuss rescheduling. A $10 fee still applies.
  • Alcohol: Beer and wine are allowed in cans only (no glass or kegs).
    • Note: Alcohol is NOT allowed at Crossroads Park or Brookview Park.
  • Tobacco: All tobacco and nicotine products (including vapes) are prohibited on park property.
  • Permits: You need an extra permit for loud music (DJs/bands) or inflatables (bounce houses).
    • Note: Amplified Sound Permits are only allowed at Raccoon River Park.
  • Proof of Rental: You must have a copy of your Park Shelter Rental Agreement with you during your event. This serves as your official proof of rental.

Pearson Park is an 8.5-acre natural oasis tucked away on the northeast side of West Des Moines. A longtime local favorite, the park is cherished for its rolling hills, mature shade trees, and a spectacular display of daffodils that blankets the landscape each spring.

Reserve the Picnic Shelter

Park Amenities & Features

  • Picnic Shelter: A rentable shelter equipped with a grill for community gatherings.
  • Playgrounds: Dedicated play equipment for toddlers (ages 2–5) and older children (ages 5–12).
  • Winter Fun: The park’s signature hills make it one of the city's most popular spots for sledding.
  • Nature Walk: Explore the .25-mile trail and cross the charming pedestrian bridge over the wetland.
  • Basketball: A non-lit court available for neighborhood pickup games.
  • Restrooms: Facilities are open seasonally from April 15 – October 15, weather permitting.
  • Parking: Convenient lots are located at both the north and south entrances.

    • Explore the Park

    View the Pearson Park Map

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