• Raccoon River Park

    RRP Drone pic
    1. Address:2500 Grand Avenue
      West Des Moines, IA 50265
    2. Phone:515-222-3444
    Amenities:
    1. Backstop
    2. Grill
    3. Multi-Use Trail
    4. Parking Lot
    5. Picnic Tables
    6. Play Equipment
    7. Public Artwork
    8. Restroom Building
    9. Shelter - first come, first serve
    10. Shelter - reservable
    11. Soccer/Playfield
    Categories:
    1. Archery Facility
    2. Boathouse
    3. Dog Park
    4. Multi-Use Trails
    5. Nature Lodge
    6. Parks
    7. Softball Complex

Raccoon River Park

As the "crown jewel" of West Des Moines, this 631-acre park features a 232-acre lake, swimming beach, and an inclusive playground. It is a premier destination for outdoor recreation, sports complexes, and scenic trail loops.

Park Features

  • Picnic Shelters: 4 rentable shelters featuring grills for public use.
  • Inclusive Playgrounds: Separate structures for ages 2-5 and 5-12.
  • Sports: Softball complex (5 fields) and a full soccer complex.
  • Restrooms: Available seasonally from April 15 to October 15.
  • Trails: Access to a 3.2-mile lake loop and regional biking paths.
  • Dog Park: Fenced, off-leash exercise area (permit required).
  • Archery Facility: Dedicated range for target practice (permit required).
  • Boathouse: Seasonal rentals for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.
  • Blue Heron Lake & Beach: Swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating.
  • Nature Lodge: Multi-purpose rentable facility for events and education.
  • Boat Ramp & Fishing Pier: Easy access for electric and manual watercraft.
  • Athene Pedestrian Bridge: Scenic connection to the Walnut Woods State Park.
  • Public Art: Unique installations integrated throughout the park landscape.

View Directional Map

Contact Us

Phone: 515-222-3444 (Monday-Friday, 8 am - 5 pm)

Email: parkrec@wdm.iowa.gov

 

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